On Tuesday, August 6th, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Aristides Aquino made history when he became the first Reds player to hit for the cycle since 1989. Aquino hit a single in the first inning, a double in the fourth, a triple in the sixth and a home run in the eighth inning to complete the cycle.
The Reds were playing the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. The game was tied 1-1 when Aquino stepped up to the plate in the eighth inning. He hit a solo home run to give the Reds a 2-1 lead. It was his fourth hit of the night and it completed the cycle.
The crowd erupted in cheers as Aquino rounded the bases. He was mobbed by his teammates when he returned to the dugout. It was an emotional moment for Aquino and for the entire Reds organization.
Aquino’s cycle was the first for the Reds since Eric Davis hit for the cycle on June 10, 1989. It was also the first cycle in the major leagues this season. Aquino is just the fourth Reds player to ever hit for the cycle, joining Davis, Pete Rose (1978) and Joe Morgan (1976).
Aquino’s feat was even more impressive considering he had only been called up to the major leagues two weeks prior. He had been tearing up Triple-A pitching before his call-up and he has continued to do so in the majors. In just 14 games with the Reds, Aquino has already hit nine home runs and driven in 21 runs.
Aquino’s cycle was a special moment for Reds fans and it is something that they will remember for many years to come. It was a reminder of what can happen when a young player is given an opportunity and takes advantage of it.
