Andrew Abbott’s worst start of the year comes at a bad time for the Reds

PHOENIX — After Cincinnati Reds starter Zack Littell went just three innings in Friday’s 11-inning loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, the team needed lefty Andrew Abbott not only to pitch well Saturday, but also to pitch deep into the game. The Reds’ All-Star did neither. In his first 22 starts of the season, Abbott gave up three runs total in the first inning. Saturday in Phoenix, he allowed three runs in the first inning alone. Abbott gave up a season-high seven runs in four innings in the Reds’ 10-1 loss Saturday. The loss, coupled with the New York Mets’ victory in Atlanta,...