Laynce Nix homers, split-squad Reds and Cubs call it a 1-1 tie after 10 innings

Reds, Cubs call it a 1-1 tie after 10 innings

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Laynce Nix hit a solo homer, and the split-squad Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs decided to call it a 1-1 tie after 10 innings on Sunday.

Nix, who is trying to win playing time in left field, hit his second homer of spring training in the second inning off Carlos Silva, who went two innings before leaving the game with tightness in his right thigh. Silva said the move was precautionary and he expects to be fine.

Chicago used eight pitchers overall, none going more than two innings.

Micah Hoffpauir went 3 for 4 for the Cubs, including a run-scoring single in the fourth off Justin Lehr, who gave up four hits in five innings. The 32-year-old Lehr has kept himself in the running for the fifth starter’s spot, part of a crowded competition that includes 22-year-old Cuban left-hander Aroldis Chapman.

“Lehr was only supposed to go three innings, but his pitch count was so low we had him go four,” manager Dusty Baker said.

Lehr allowed a leadoff double in the fourth to Tyler Colvin. After getting two outs, Hoffpauir singled to right to tie the game. Colvin was 2 for 4, raising his average to .442. Colvin is competing with Sam Fuld for the team’s fifth outfielder spot.

Kip Wells, also in the mix for the Reds’ fifth spot, pitched three scoreless innings with three strikeouts to end the game.

NOTES: After starting the spring 2 for 20, Reds CF Drew Stubbs has gone 7 for 12 since Tuesday, including five extra-base hits. He was 1 for 3 with a double on Sunday. … Chicago’s Marcos Mateo pitched a scoreless ninth and struck out two batters. The Cubs got Mateo in a trade with Cincinnati in 2007. … Hoffpauir raised his averaged from .167 to .241 with his three-hit game. … Reds closer Francisco Cordero threw two scoreless innings. He hasn’t allowed a run in six appearances (seven innings) this spring.