Zack Littell Shines in Cincinnati Reds Debut, Steer’s Homer Powers 5-1 Win Over Slumping Cubs (Aug. 5, 2025)

Tuesday, August 5th, 2025

Cincinnati Reds Defeat Chicago Cubs 5-1 Behind Zack Littell’s Dominant Debut

Zack Littell made a strong first impression in his Cincinnati Reds debut, delivering seven outstanding innings with eight strikeouts as the Reds cruised to a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Acquired from Tampa Bay just last week, Littell (9-8) allowed only three hits and two walks, effectively shutting down the Cubs’ offense in a crucial National League Central matchup.

Spencer Steer Sparks Reds Offense with Clutch Homer

The game remained tight until the seventh inning, when Spencer Steer broke the 1-1 tie with a pivotal three-run home run as part of Cincinnati’s four-run frame. Steer’s 13th homer of the season drove in Austin Hays, Miguel Andujar, and himself, providing the Reds (60-54) all the cushion they needed. Santiago Espinal added a sacrifice fly, further extending Cincinnati’s lead.

Cubs’ Struggles Continue Despite Shaw’s Home Run

Matt Shaw gave the Cubs (65-48) a brief spark with his seventh home run in the fifth inning, tying the game. However, Chicago’s offense continued to sputter, managing just four hits after mustering only three in the previous night’s 3-2 loss to Cincinnati. The Cubs have now dropped three of their last four games and trail the NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers by four games.

Pitching Overview: Littell and Imanaga Impress

Cubs starter Shota Imanaga struck out seven in 6 1/3 innings and was charged with just one run on three hits, keeping Chicago in the game until the Reds’ big seventh inning. Andrew Kittredge (2-3), in just his third appearance since joining the Cubs from Baltimore, took the loss after surrendering the go-ahead homer to Steer.

Andujar Delivers Multi-Hit Game in Cincinnati Debut

Miguel Andujar collected his first two hits with the Reds after coming over at the trade deadline from Oakland. TJ Friedl also registered two hits, contributing to Cincinnati’s efficient offensive performance.

Key Moment

The Cubs appeared poised to strike early with runners on first and second and none out in the first inning. However, the momentum stalled as the next three batters—Kyle Tucker, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Willi Castro—each struck out swinging, setting a tone for the rest of the night.

Key Stat

The Reds capitalized in clutch situations, going 3-for-5 with runners in scoring position, while the Cubs were held hitless (0-for-6) in the same scenario.

Up Next

The series concludes on Wednesday, with Reds All-Star left-hander Andrew Abbott (8-1, 2.15 ERA) set to face off against Cubs rookie right-hander Cade Horton (5-2, 3.42 ERA).

In summary

Zack Littell’s dominant pitching performance and Spencer Steer’s timely three-run homer led the Cincinnati Reds to a crucial 5-1 win over the Chicago Cubs, tightening the NL Central race. With solid contributions from newcomers like Miguel Andujar and strong pitching from both teams’ starters, the Reds continue their playoff push while the Cubs look to rebound in the series finale.

MLB Schedules

Today's MLB Games

There are no baseball games today.

Tomorrow's MLB Games

There are no baseball games tomorrow.

Yesterday's MLB Games

There were no baseball games yesterday.