Boxscore

The Reds wrapped up the first half with a 4-2 win over the Padres last night to take 3 of 4 in San Diego and 6 of 11 in California.

Johnny Cueto was killing it at first, but faltered as the game went on and only ended up serving 5.2 innings. He allowed 2 runs (earned) on 7 hits and 2 walks in that time, but thanks to run support and good relief, he still finished with the win.

Sam LeCure got the next two outs, Sean Marshall the 5 after that, and Aroldis Chapman closed out the last inning. None of the relievers allowed so much as a hit, and Chapman even struck out 2 in the ninth. For the moment, at least, he’s “back.”

The offense was brought to you last night by:

• Jay Bruce, who knocked Brandon Phillips and himself in with a 2-run home run in the fourth inning for half the Reds’ score. If you’re only going to have one run on the night, why not make it this one?
• Ryan Ludwick, who also made the most of his single hit by going back-to-back with Bruce in the fourth.
• Phillips, who broke the 1-hit trend by going 3-for-5 and who also knocked in Zack Cozart in the seventh inning for the Reds’ insurance run.

The win brings the Reds’ record to 47-38. Except for Joey Votto, Bruce, and Chapman, the team is off until Friday when the Reds will host the Cardinals. Mat Latos will take on Adam Wainwright. First pitch at 7:10 p.m.