In an electrifying matchup on Tuesday night, George Springer showcased his incredible skills, going 3-for-4 with two towering home runs and three RBIs, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a nail-biting 12-9 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.

Despite their struggles with blown saves this season, including a setback in Monday's opener, the Blue Jays held their ground in the American League East. Jeff Hoffman stepped up, allowing just one hit in the ninth inning to earn his 30th save.

In a twist of fate, Reds' starter Nick Lodolo was sidelined due to illness, forcing the 32-year-old Scott Barlow to make his first career start. Unfortunately for Barlow, it didn’t turn out well as the Blue Jays stormed out of the gate.

Springer ignited the offense with his 25th home run of the season right off the bat. Barlow then struggled, issuing three consecutive walks that loaded the bases, leading to Alejandro Kirk’s clutch double that cleared the bases and gave the Jays a commanding 4-0 lead.

Relief pitcher Brent Suter couldn’t reverse the tide in the second inning, allowing Bo Bichette to crush a three-run homer, marking his 18th of the season and extending the lead to 8-1.

Springer added his second homer of the game—a two-run blast—making it 10-6 in the fourth inning, marking the 29th multi-homer game of his illustrious career.

Daulton Varsho also joined the power party with a solo shot in the seventh, further extending the Jays' lead to 11-8. The Reds attempted a comeback with TJ Friedl’s solo homer in the eighth, cutting the deficit to just two runs.

The game had its tense moments, especially after a throwing error by Blue Jays’ third baseman Isiah Kiner-Falefa, allowing Austin Hays to launch a three-run bomb into the left field bleachers, pulling the Reds to within two at 8-6.

Springer’s performance solidified his status as a leadoff powerhouse, bringing his career total to 62 leadoff homers, including a franchise-leading 23 for the Blue Jays. He now sits just behind the legendary Rickey Henderson, who holds the record with 81.

As the series continues, the Blue Jays will look to maintain momentum with Shane Bieber (1-1, 2.38 ERA) taking the mound against the Reds’ Zack Littell (9-8, 3.63) in the upcoming finale.