The Rangers snapped a three-game losing streak and now have a 6 1/2-game lead in the American League West with 35 to play. Despite the loss, the Reds finished 6-4 on their 10-game homestand.
Desmond started the rally when he was hit by a pitch from right-handed reliever Blake Wood, and he stole second. Carlos Beltran flied out to center, but Beltre snapped an 0-for-10 skid with a double to right-center.
Rangers starter Yu Darvish hit his first Major League home run, but otherwise struggled in six innings. He allowed five runs and couldn't hold leads of 3-0 or 5-2.