Blue Jays Edge Reds in 12-9 Shootout

CINCINNATI - The Toronto Blue Jays held on for a 12-9 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night, propelled by a breakout performance from George Springer and key contributions throughout the lineup.

George Springer went 3-for-4 with two towering home runs and three RBI to ignite Toronto’s offense, including a leadoff shot in the first inning and a two-run blast in the fourth. Bo Bichette added a three-run homer in the second, his 18th of the season, while Daulton Varsho’s solo shot extended the lead in the seventh. Alejandro Kirk chipped in with a bases-clearing double in the opening frame, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. delivered a run-scoring knock to maintain the momentum.

Relief pitchers Louis Varland (4-3) and Jeff Hoffman combined to preserve the win, with Hoffman recording his 30th save by allowing just one hit in the ninth inning. Cincinnati starter Scott Barlow struggled in his first career start, surrendering four runs and three walks in just one inning of work, while Brent Suter and other Reds relievers were unable to contain Toronto’s explosive attack.

The loss dropped the Reds to 70-69, while the Blue Jays improved to 80-59 and remained in firm control of the American League wild-card race. Left-handers Shane Bieber (1-1, 2.38 ERA) and Zack Littell (9-8, 3.63) are slated to start Wednesday’s series finale.