The Baltimore Orioles delivered a standout performance on July 4, 2026, defeating the Cincinnati Reds 8-5 at Great American Ball Park. Rookie catcher Samuel Basallo ignited the offense with a three-run home run in the first inning, marking his 14th of the season. The Orioles capitalized on Reds starter Hunter Greene’s return from injury, scoring eight runs against him. Notably, first baseman Pete Alonso contributed significantly, reaching base in all five of his plate appearances, including a double in the ninth inning. This victory marked the Orioles’ third consecutive win, setting the stage for a potential four-game winning streak if they secure a sweep in the series finale. ([mlb.com](https://www.mlb.com/news/adley-rutschman-pete-alonso-power-orioles-win-reds-july-4?utm_source=openai))
In other notable baseball results, the Arizona Diamondbacks edged out the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3. Catcher Adrian Del Castillo provided the decisive blow with a three-run home run in the first inning. Starting pitcher Merrill Kelly earned his first win in seven starts, pitching five innings and allowing two runs. Closer Paul Sewald secured his 20th save of the season, despite conceding a solo home run in the ninth inning. ([washingtonpost.com](https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/mlb/2026/07/05/brewers-dbacks-score/9683228e-7829-11f1-b665-5f8be87f3787_story.html?utm_source=openai))
On the injury front, the New York Yankees’ ace pitcher, Gerrit Cole, was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a strained hamstring. This development raises concerns about the Yankees’ pitching rotation as they approach the mid-season stretch. ([en.as.com](https://en.as.com/other_sports/4th-of-july-sports-schedule-what-to-watch-on-independence-day-wimbledon-f1-world-cup-mlb-f202607-n/?outputType=amp&utm_source=openai))
Looking ahead, the MLB schedule features several exciting matchups. The New York Mets are set to face the Atlanta Braves, with the Mets currently leading 5-3 in the ongoing game. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Pirates are tied 4-4 with the Washington Nationals, and the Baltimore Orioles trail the Cincinnati Reds 3-1 in the top of the fourth inning. Fans can anticipate more thrilling baseball action as the season progresses. ([baseball-reference.com](https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/?date=2026-07-04&utm_source=openai))
