CINCINNATI -- Credit the Reds lineup for doing its part during a bruising battle of the bullpens on Tuesday vs. the Blue Jays. But this is September of a playoff race when each win is necessary and each loss is especially consequential.

This was a battle Cincinnati needed to win and didn't. Toronto attacked early, leaving the Reds to play catchup during a 12-9 defeat at Great American Ball Park. The repercussions were not pleasant as the Mets won their game over the Tigers to extend their lead for the final National League Wild Card spot to five games.

When starting pitcher Nick Lodolo was scratched with an illness, manager Terry Francona was forced to make it a bullpen game. The Reds trailed 4-0 after one inning and 8-1 after the top of the second.

Opener Scott Barlow surrendered a

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