Detroit Tigers at Cincinnati Reds

Just as the Reds' offense has finally provided some bigger output, designated hitter Eugenio Suárez went on the 10-day injured list with a mild left oblique strain. It's no doubt a blow to the middle of the order since Suárez provided protection to Sal Stewart, who provided protection for Elly De La Cruz. But there's some depth that should help cover the loss. Also it would be a boost if the offense continues to spread hits around. “That’s the hope," manager Terry Francona said on Saturday afternoon. "You never want to lose somebody. Saying that, if somebody gets hot, you’re OK. Over the course of a whole year, it probably would really grab you. But if you go a couple of weeks and somebody gets hot, you can cover it.” Stewart and De La Cruz still contributed big during Saturday's 9-2 win against the Tigers at Great American Ball Park. While Stewart went 3-for-4 with a home run and five RBIs, De La Cruz also reached three times and added his ninth homer. And the hero of Friday's game, Nathaniel Lowe, also hit his third homer in the last two games. Besides winning seven of their last eight games, the Reds have also won nine of their last 11 while averaging 5.55 runs per game. Despite still ranking last in MLB in team batting average (.213) and 25th in OPS (.682), Cincinnati has an 18-9 record and owns sole possession of first place in the National League Central. Lowe, who made the club out of camp after signing a Minor League contract on Feb. 14, filled in Friday after Suárez was a late lineup scratch and then slugged his first two homers as a Red. It included the walk-off two-run homer in a 9-8 win over the Tigers.