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Reds game today featured a spectacular individual performance, as JJ Bleday hit for the cycle during Cincinnati’s convincing 11-5 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday night, Aug. 22, 2026. The Reds left fielder completed the rare feat with a sixth-inning home run, capping a remarkable night at the plate.
Bleday opened the game with a double in the first inning, followed with a triple in the third and added a single in the fourth. When he stepped into the batter’s box in the sixth, only a home run stood between him and baseball’s elusive cycle.
Reds Game Today Produces a Historic Offensive Explosion
Rather than overcomplicate the moment, Bleday relied on the approach that had worked throughout the game. He swung at the first pitch from Arizona reliever Zack Littell and drove a line drive toward right field. The ball cleared the fence, triggering a celebration from the Cincinnati dugout and completing the 11th cycle in Reds franchise history, according to ESPN Research.
“I just thought, keep doing what I’ve been doing the first three at-bats, and I was able to put a good swing on it,” Bleday said after the game.
The achievement was especially meaningful for Bleday, who entered the contest batting .217 and had struggled in recent appearances. He struck out three times in Friday’s 9-0 loss to the Diamondbacks, making Saturday’s offensive turnaround even more striking.
“Things haven’t been going that well for me as of late, so I’m just trying to persevere,” Bleday said. “This organization has really welcomed me and my family, and they’ve been giving me opportunities.”
JJ Bleday Breaks Through With Four Different Hits
The 28-year-old outfielder’s cycle was built against two Arizona pitchers. His double and triple came against starter Michael Soroka, while his single and home run came against Littell. The final home run was Bleday’s 21st of the season, surpassing his previous career high of 20, which he set with the Athletics in 2024.
Bleday was selected fourth overall in the 2019 MLB draft, but his path to consistency has taken time. His performance Saturday offered a powerful reminder of the offensive ability that made him a highly regarded prospect and gave Cincinnati an important spark in the lineup.
He finished 4-for-6, accounting for four of the Reds’ 16 hits. Cincinnati’s lineup consistently pressured Arizona pitching, built an early advantage and maintained control throughout the contest.
Elly De La Cruz Adds More Drama to the Reds Win
Bleday was not the only Cincinnati player to deliver a memorable performance. Elly De La Cruz also went 4-for-6 and collected four hits, meaning the two Reds stars combined for half of the team’s total hits.
De La Cruz came close to creating an even rarer statistical achievement. He lacked only a triple for what would have been the first twin cycle game in MLB history. After Bleday completed his home run, De La Cruz acknowledged how unusual the moment was.
“It’s always cool seeing someone hit for the cycle,” De La Cruz said. “I didn’t know until he hit the homer, but that was pretty cool.”
De La Cruz previously hit for the cycle on June 23, 2023, against the Atlanta Braves. He and Bleday are now the only Reds players to accomplish the feat in the past several seasons.
Reds Cycle History Expands After Bleday’s Breakthrough
Bleday became the first Cincinnati player to hit for the cycle since De La Cruz in 2023. Other Reds players to achieve the feat during the past 100 years include Eric Davis in 1989, Frank Robinson in 1959 and Harry Craft in 1940.
The franchise’s 11 cycles date back to 1883, placing Bleday in a select group of Cincinnati hitters who have produced one of baseball’s most celebrated offensive milestones.
There had already been three cycles in the major leagues during the 2026 season. Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs, Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies and Tristan Peters of the Chicago White Sox had previously reached the milestone. Peters recorded the most recent cycle before Bleday, doing so on July 10.
What Bleday’s Performance Means for Cincinnati
The Reds entered the night looking to respond after being shut out the previous evening. Bleday’s historic performance provided an immediate answer, while De La Cruz and the rest of the lineup helped turn the game into a decisive win.
For Cincinnati, the victory showcased the club’s offensive potential and offered Bleday a valuable confidence boost. His 21st home run also established a new personal best, adding another important detail to an already memorable night.
The Reds will hope the offensive momentum continues as the season moves forward. If Bleday can carry the confidence from this performance into upcoming games, Cincinnati could gain another productive bat at a crucial stage of the schedule.
FAQs About the Reds Game Today
Who hit for the cycle in the Reds game today?
JJ Bleday hit for the cycle for the Cincinnati Reds. He recorded a double, triple, single and home run in his first four at-bats.
What was the Reds score against the Diamondbacks?
The Reds defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 11-5 on Saturday night, Aug. 22, 2026.
How many hits did JJ Bleday have?
Bleday went 4-for-6 and recorded four different types of hits needed to complete the cycle.
How many home runs does JJ Bleday have this season?
Bleday’s cycle-ending home run was his 21st of the 2026 season. It surpassed his previous career high of 20 home runs.
