CINCINNATI, Ohio – Joey Votto smacked a go-ahead two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Reds doubled up the Indians 4-2 in the opener of a two-game set at Great American Ball Park.
The two teams square off for the second meeting tonight in Cincinnati before the four-game series shifts to Cleveland for the final two games beginning tomorrow.
Mat Latos takes the hill for the Reds opposed by Zach McAllister.
Shin-Soo Choo went 2-for-4 with a solo shot and two runs scored Monday, while Brandon Phillips also plated a run for the Reds, who have won six of their last seven.
Mike Leake gave up just one earned run in 7-1/3 innings in a no-decision.
Jonathan Broxton was credited with the win after recording the final two outs in the eighth.
Aroldis Chapman pitched a perfect ninth for his 13th save.
Jason Giambi hit a game-tying solo homer in the eighth for the Tribe, which has lost four straight and six of its last eight.
Nick Hagadone fell to 0-1 with the setback.