Cincinnati Reds News Roundup — September 5, 2026

The Brewers defeated the Reds 10-7 on Friday, rallying from behind with a five-run fifth inning that was sparked by an Elly De La Cruz fielding error. Milwaukee's comeback proved decisive despite Cincinnati scoring early, with the Reds unable to overcome the offensive onslaught in the later innings.

The Reds will activate right-hander Graham Ashcraft from the 60-day injured list on Sunday after more than three months away with a right forearm UCL sprain. Ashcraft posted a 3.33 ERA as a reliever earlier this season with a 29.4% strikeout rate, representing a significant improvement from his work as a starter. The bullpen addition comes as Cincinnati's relief corps ranks among the league's worst this season. Spencer Steer will move to the 60-day IL to create roster space.

Cincinnati faces deeper roster questions heading into the final month. Edwin Arroyo has struggled in his first extended major league opportunity, batting .232 in 49 games despite posting a .309 average at Triple-A Louisville, prompting the organization to sign veteran Orlando Arcia to a minor-league deal. The team also ranks last in baseball with a .596 OPS against fastballs of 95 mph or higher, a weakness that appears rooted in coaching or individual performance rather than physical limitations, since several Reds hitters including Elly De La Cruz perform adequately in these situations.

The Reds and Brewers continue their series Saturday at 6:40 PM ET with Andrew Abbott facing Dustin May. Abbott has struggled recently with a 6.89 ERA since August began, while May has allowed 14 earned runs in 19.2 innings since being acquired by Milwaukee at the trade deadline. The Brewers lead baseball with 88 wins and are seeking another division victory.