ST. LOUIS (AP) Paul DeJong hit a three-run homer and a two-run single for a career-high five RBIs, helping Austin Gomber and the St. Louis Cardinals pound the Cincinnati Reds 12-5 on Friday night.
Matt Carpenter hit his NL-best 35th homer as St. Louis pulled within 3 1/2 games of NL Central-leading Chicago. Gomber pitched seven effective innings and also contributed a two-run double.
The surging Cardinals have won eight of 10 to improve to 28-13 since the All-Star break. They also lead the NL wild-card standings.
Scooter Gennett and Scott Schebler had three hits apiece for last-place Cincinnati, which has dropped three straight and eight of nine. Homer Bailey (1-13) was charged with seven runs, three earned, and nine hits in five innings.
The series continues Saturday evening as Daniel Poncedeleon starts for St. Louis, and the Reds will go with Luis Castillo. The first pitch at Busch Stadium is scheduled for 6:15. Saturday’s game can be heard on KTLO-AM. The broadcast begins at 5:20 with Ameren Total Access.
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