Anthony DeSclafani handled the St. Louis Cardinals for the second straight start, striking out a career-high nine, and the host Cincinnati Reds turned a big first inning off John Lackey into a 3-2 victory Tuesday night.
DeSclafani, the most experienced member of Cincinnati’s all-rookie rotation, gave up seven hits and two runs in six innings. It was his second straight impressive start over the National League Central leaders.
Last Wednesday in St. Louis, DeSclafani gave up three hits in seven innings of a 1-0 win.
Aroldis Chapman struck out two in the ninth — his fastball topping out at 101 miles per hour — for his 23rd save in 24 chances.