View Full Version : 2011 Cincinnati Reds Season Thread
Reds win opening day over the Brewers 7-6.
Volquez was not very effective, giving up back-to-back home runs to start the game, and five runs in six innings overall.
Reds trailed all day but scored four in the ninth, capped by Ramon Hernandez's 3-run home run to win it.
Today's game plan - shaky starting pitching, leaving too many men on base until the ninth inning, and needing to climb out of a four-run hole - is not going to be an overall recipe for success this season. But it was enough to get them an opening day victory. And the April games count just as much as the September games.
tomindayton
03-31-2011, 06:00 PM
It was an up an down first game of the season. Volquez gives up a couple long balls, Reds claw back only to have Volquez give up another dinger after setting down 8 in a row. Stubbs has a very good game leading off and Reds also get multi-hit game out of Janish and Hernandez plus Votto and Bruce have good games. Lots of runners left on base for the Reds, but they come out with a win against the team they HAVE to beat.
citybuck
03-31-2011, 07:49 PM
Just like last year, another come from behind victory !!!!
Go Reds !
madmakrich
03-31-2011, 08:58 PM
Got it done... the jitters of opening day are gone. Let's hope the sketchy play ends but the W's continue! Go Reds!
lmavcch3
03-31-2011, 10:56 PM
They are so much fun to watch!!
57chevy
03-31-2011, 11:21 PM
Go Reds!
BrianFantana
03-31-2011, 11:52 PM
Win ugly or pretty. Doesn't matter to me.
Eric Frantz
04-01-2011, 01:46 AM
Baseball is SO MUCH MORE INTERESTING when the Reds are good.
Lancer '65
04-01-2011, 01:51 AM
Hopefully, the pitching will be better in game #2.
Pitching is a major concern right now. We know Volquez can be good but he can be bad too.
Bailey and Cueto are already on the DL, and our main workhorse (Arroyo) is recovering from a mild bout with mono.
Wood and Leake certainly looked good at times last year, but this year they'll need to prove they can build on that success. They're both still very young.
Drewline
04-01-2011, 12:10 PM
Picking up right where we left off last year with a last AB come from behind win. Don't turn these Reds off early.
Thank you Castellini and Jocketty.
Saturday is Opening NIGHT.
A win is a win and these Brewers are picked by many to take the NL Central. They have put much into 2011 to go with what will probably be Fielder's last season with the club.
Lancer '65
04-01-2011, 12:39 PM
When all is said and done I still think that LaRussa will find a way to battle the Reds right to the wire. This time, I hope that the Reds win the Division again, but finish the season off with a World Series win!
Drewline
04-01-2011, 01:04 PM
The NL Central goes through St. Louis. Just don't repeat that to my brother-in-law a partial season tix holder for the Cards!
It will be a dog fight but we currently have a one game lead!
Interesting Pujols had an 0/5 day yesterday. Last year, opening day he was something like 3/5 with game winning RBI.
bigdog
04-01-2011, 01:23 PM
I was there, it was awesome. Volquez threw strikes, didn't walk a bunch(2) and had good command of his pitches. He made 3 bad pitches for sure but lots of good ones and didn't lose it after giving up the 2 dingers. The bullpen did well and the offense got it done! Awesome day at the ballpark.
Yes, I took a personal day to go, totally legal under my contract.
LOL!
eaton7911
04-01-2011, 01:31 PM
Baseball is SO MUCH MORE INTERESTING when the Reds are good.
I couldn't agree more. Baseball isn't baseball with out the RED'S
14Red
04-01-2011, 02:29 PM
I’m as big a Reds fan as anyone, but I think we need to reel in our expectations. Yes, winning the Central is a very attainable goal. World Series? Maybe not just quite yet. I really like the direction of the franchise because they are not built for one season. This is still a very young team with depth where you need it most, starting pitching.
Barring some very strange things, the Phillies are head and shoulders above the rest of the NL, so getting the world series this year is already a tall order.
Drewline
04-01-2011, 02:38 PM
I thought the Phillies were last year too but it didn't turn out that way. They have some holes in their daily line up due to injuries and the departure of Werth. Utley's knee problems are beginning to sound longterm.
Although their SP is still unbelievable. The BP maybe thin.
Game 2 underway, Travis Wood pitching well as the Reds lead 4-1 in the middle of the fifth.
bazookajoe
04-02-2011, 08:39 PM
Can't Stand Cordero
Cordero gets his first action, gives up a meaningless run in one inning of work, Reds win 4-2.
I'm not as anti-Cordero as many Reds fans are, but he will really be on the hotseat to perform this year. Obviously, if Chapman stays in the bullpen and pitches halfway well there is no reason to keep Cordero in the closer role if he struggles.
Lancer '65
04-02-2011, 08:53 PM
Wood was effective and the Reds are 2-0. Just win, Baby!!!
57chevy
04-02-2011, 10:45 PM
They made a not on TV that Coco has the 3rd most saves over the past 3 years and more than Mariano Rivera... I agree he is gut wrenching, but overall gets the job done.
14Red
04-02-2011, 11:43 PM
Love to see these kinds of wins, get up early, get great starting pitching, and finish the game.
I'll probably be saying this all year, but Coco is not an effective closer. He pitched one inning tonight, gives up one run, and the tying run is at the plate. He scares me everytime he's on the mound.
Lancer '65
04-03-2011, 04:17 AM
Coco certainly does make us nervous at times, and yes, we have to agonize over each pitch, and yes, he gets himself into trouble at the drop of a hat, but you can't argue his success over his career here in Cincinnati. Sometimes I think he almost enjoys the drama as much as we detest it. Nonetheless, Dusty seems to like him and Dusty is the manager so I guess we just have to hang in there and root for all the Reds (Coco included) to take us to another Division Title in 2011. As a side note, I did not know that while we suffer mightily some nights when Coco is having one of those "interesting" appearances on the mound, that he has saved as many games as he has. I guess he's valuable to the team and we should just try not to worry so much and enjoy this Reds team.
Perhaps an extra beer or two within easy reach would help settle the nerves of fans when Coco is out there?
I will say that being a closer is a gut wrenching job. He had a three run lead tonight, but a lot of times you're coming in with a one-run lead and if you don't get them out 1-2-3 you're making people nervous.
3.00 is a pretty good ERA in the majors. But that means that on average you are going to blow 1 out of every 3 one-run lead save chances.
There is lots of grumbling about Cordero, but I don't know how many lockdown closers there really are in the majors right now. Look at what happened to Milwaukee on Opening Day.
In any case, Arroyo on the hill for the Reds today. It's great to have locked up a series win to start the season, but it would be very nice to polish off the sweep.
Lancer '65
04-03-2011, 11:33 AM
I can't think of a better way to start the new season than with a 3-0 sweep of the Brewers. Go Reds!
J\Darby10
04-03-2011, 06:51 PM
Went down and watched the game today. Seeing Chapman pitch was a highlight!! Boy they were hitting the hell out of the ball today. This team is going to be fun to watch they are still very young and seem to have a lot of fun playing!
tomindayton
04-03-2011, 07:50 PM
Went to Opening Night and also today's game. What a couple great games! Was surprised Hernandez didn't start either after his heroics Thursday, but Hanigan hit 2 dingers today! Both Wood and Arroyo pitched really well. Chapman coming in today and throwing 103 MPH was cool and really got the crowd going. This is going to be a fun season I think!
macfan7358
04-03-2011, 08:35 PM
it is nice to see the Reds get a nice start. Of course, they caught a break without having to face Greinke, but sweeping the Brewers is a nice start to the season. I am still a bit worried about their starting pitching, but I hope i am just a worry wart. The Reds offense is just potent. Good pitching can stop them, but you better not make many mistakes to them. They will make you pay.
Lancer '65
04-03-2011, 08:39 PM
Three down and 159 to go. Nice start for the Reds. The pitching has been great, the hitting has been great and the record is great. I believe that's 3 for 3!
Lancer '65
04-04-2011, 06:52 AM
I have mentioned this previously but I also believe that another factor in the success of the Reds is the relaxed atmosphere in the Red's dugout. I think that we have to give a lot of the credit for that to Dusty. He doesn't seem to ever get rattled and he appears to be a player's manager. Sometimes a good man is hard to find and I fervently believe that the Reds have one in Dusty.
Astros coming to town for a three-game set starting tomorrow night. So far Houston (0-3) doesn't look like they've improved any from last year (although I think they did play much better in the second half of the season?)
No reason the Reds shouldn't take two out of three and start the season 5-1.
14Red
04-04-2011, 09:46 AM
Coco certainly does make us nervous at times, and yes, we have to agonize over each pitch, and yes, he gets himself into trouble at the drop of a hat, but you can't argue his success over his career here in Cincinnati. Sometimes I think he almost enjoys the drama as much as we detest it. Nonetheless, Dusty seems to like him and Dusty is the manager so I guess we just have to hang in there and root for all the Reds (Coco included) to take us to another Division Title in 2011. As a side note, I did not know that while we suffer mightily some nights when Coco is having one of those "interesting" appearances on the mound, that he has saved as many games as he has. I guess he's valuable to the team and we should just try not to worry so much and enjoy this Reds team.
Perhaps an extra beer or two within easy reach would help settle the nerves of fans when Coco is out there?
Or maybe we just try another closer. At this point, I like Massett and Chapman as well as Coco. Do you feel real comfortable with a 3-2 and Coco going in? It’s almost like you need to have a 3-4 run lead before you’re comfortable with him in. I’m sure he’ll be the closer until he blows a couple.
eaton7911
04-04-2011, 10:47 AM
It was a nice series to start the season and gives them a positive thought pattern going into the Astro series. Go Reds
Lancer '65
04-04-2011, 12:39 PM
You may be right, 14Red. Perhaps we should increase the number of available beers when the game is only 1 run apart?
Things off to a good start against Houston. Reds up 5-0 after two innings. Leake has started out well, but the Astros' starter has walked five and hit a batter in two innings.
Lancer '65
04-05-2011, 08:36 PM
The Reds are rolling late in the game. It's 8-2 and another strong starting pitching performance by the Reds. This is starting to be a little scary.
tomindayton
04-05-2011, 10:03 PM
4-0!!! Starting things off very nice in 2011!
Lancer '65
04-06-2011, 07:30 AM
Is it too early to start thinking about play-off tickets? (I'm kidding...sort of..)
bigdog
04-06-2011, 07:41 AM
How are they winning without Adam Dunn's run production HEHEHEHEHEH!!
I sure don't miss his 200 Ks!
Bobble
04-06-2011, 07:45 AM
And how many Sacrifices did Dunn have in his time with the Redlegs?
Is it too early to start thinking about play-off tickets? (I'm kidding...sort of..)
Just a wee bit early. Even the worst team in MLB will have a four-game winning streak at some point in the year. Let's hope this is a trend for the Reds though.
Volquez gets start #2 this year, hopefully he can improve upon his opening day outing.
Best sign so far is that Wood, Leake, and Arroyo were all sharp. The Reds still will need a fifth starter, not sure who that will be if Cueto and Bailey both remain on the DL (NOTE: Just saw the LeCure will get a start). And I'm not sure what happens when they both come back.
bigdog
04-06-2011, 11:44 AM
Just a wee bit early. Even the worst team in MLB will have a four-game winning streak at some point in the year. Let's hope this is a trend for the Reds though.
MAybe but I bought a small pack of season tickets just so I will be on the list to buy Playoff tix! and opening day, of course!
Reds looking to go to 5-0. Volquez gave up four in the first inning, but the Astros have not scored again. Meanwhile the Reds' offense has kept on roaring. It's only the sixth inning, and every position player except Heisey has at least one hit. Four Reds have multiple hits. Astros have hurt themselves with three errors as well. 10-4 Reds after six innings.
Reds win 12-4. Reds with 14 hits, Astros with 5 errors. Might be a long season in Houston.
tomindayton
04-06-2011, 10:54 PM
Even after spotting the Astros 4 runs in the top of the first inning, I still had confidence that the Reds would make it a game. Never thought it would end up as a 12-4 Reds win but I'm not complaining!
43 runs in 5 games. Not bad! :)
The Reds' explosive offense and a deep pitching staff gave a hint tonight what this season could be like. Keep winning each series! Bring out the brooms again tomorrow afternoon!
minsterman
04-06-2011, 11:00 PM
pretty fun right now, it's amazing what happens when a team hustles...:D
Lancer '65
04-06-2011, 11:28 PM
12 unanswered runs!! This Red's team is out of this world. Could it be two consecutive "sweeps" to begin the season?
I say the win streak ends tomorrow (but wouldn't complain if I were wrong). Reds are starting Sam LeCure, who may need to pitch well to beat Brett Myers. Myers should have gotten a win on Opening Day for the Astros, he pitched well only to have the bullpen blow it by allowing three runs to the Phillies in the ninth inning.
Lancer '65
04-07-2011, 05:19 AM
Yes, but that was only the lowly Phillies. We are talking about the "Big Red Machine...circa 2011". Go for six!!!! I realize I'm being a tad optimistic and yes, I am aware how good the Phillies are, but while this thing lasts, I plan on enjoying every second. Plus, right now it looks like the Reds can score at will against just about anyone.
Astros leading the Reds 2-1 in the fifth inning. LeCure is pitching well but the Reds have only managed two hits off of Myers.
Rolen homers to tie it in the seventh, 2-2 in the middle of the eighth.
Masset lets in a run thanks to consecutive two-out hits in the top of the ninth, Reds will need to rally in the bottom of the inning. And let the record show, if Cordero had done that the peanut gallery here would have been jumping on him.
Reds trying to get a rally to tie or win the game, Phillips and Votto have singled with two outs. Ramon Hernandez pinch-hitting now. He couldn't hit yet another 3 run homer to win the game, could he? No, groundout to end it.
10 hits but only two runs for the Reds today. Still, a series win and a 5-1 start.
Reds start their first road trip with three in Arizona over the weekend...
Reds in Phoenix tonight to take on the Diamondbacks, who are off to a 2-3 start.
Travis Wood will be on the mound for the Reds, looking to build on a good first outing against the Brewers last week.
Reds get rocked 13-2. Wood started slow, settled down, then gave up three in the sixth. Maloney came on and was completely ineffective.
Reds offense is the story though, only two runs in each of their first two losses.
Arroyo will be on the mound tonight as the Reds look to get back on track.
Game 2 in Arizona under way. Reds are off to a good start with 2 in the first. Arroyo gets out of a 2nd & 3rd, 1-out jam thanks to a pair of strikeouts. 2-0 Reds after 1.
Arroyo has gotten himself out of a few jams, but finally gives up a run in the bottom of the sixth. Reds have gotten only one hit since the first inning but are holding onto a 2-1 lead.
Arroyo out after six, Bray in. Bullpen will have their chance to earn their money tonight, the offense doesn't appear to be interested in scoring any more runs.
Bray retires the Diamondbacks in order in the seventh, nice inning.
I spoke too soon. Gomes doubles in two runs in the top of the ninth, and Diamondback errors had the Reds two more. 6-1 the final. Mike Leake will go for the Reds at 4:10 Cincinnati time tomorrow as the Reds try to take the rubber game.
bman618
04-09-2011, 10:45 PM
Just keep taking series.
Today's game started out great as the Reds busted out t0 a 5-0 lead after two and a half innings. The Diamondbacks have gotten to Leake for five runs in the bottom of the fifth and now lead 6-5.
madmakrich
04-10-2011, 05:29 PM
Jonny goes deep again baby!!!!!!
Gomes was the about the only Red to start the season in a definite slump at the plate, but hopefully he has broken out of that with a big two-run insurance double last night and now a two-run go-ahead home run today.
Reds bullpen will need to come through.
Chapman with a scoreless seventh. Masset making a jam for himself in the eighth, men on first and second with one out.
Masset coughs it up for the second time in four games. RBI single ties it at 7. Then he gives up a 3-run home run. 10-7 Diamondbacks, still in the bottom of the eighth.
Reds trying to rally in the ninth, Phillips and Votto have singled to start it out. First and third with no out.
Nope. Reds get one but lose 10-8. Double digit runs given up in two out of three games will not get it done this year.
Reds drop to 6-3, still a decent start. Heading on to San Diego for a three-game set starting tomorrow night.
macfan7358
04-10-2011, 06:55 PM
The Reds pitching has not been very good. giving up 23 total runs in the 1st and 3rd games to the Dbacks is unacceptable.
Reds and Padres get going at 10:05 Cincinnati time tonight.
Matchup could be a difficult one for the Reds. Mat Latos is starting for the Padres. He was very impressive last season and is making his first start this year. Edinson Volquez has not pitched well, especially in the early innings, but has been bailed out by a lot of run support. He cannot expect the same number of runs tonight.
Reds have not won a series in San Diego since 2005, but need to put a halt to their mini-slump over the past four games.
It's funny, I moved out to San Francisco a few years ago which means that Reds night games usually start at 4:10 my time. 7 PM seems like an absurdly late time to start a baseball game, but that's what happens on when the Reds are on the West Coast!
Polar Bear 73
04-12-2011, 08:19 AM
Gomes and Heisey go yard and Reds pull one out last night. Looking good so far this year, but when is Jay Bruce going to start living up to his expectations. Remember a few years ago, he was going to be the superstar and Votto was almost an after thought. Can you imagine how tough this team could be for the next decade if he started putting up anything close to Votto-like numbers. He has stretches (late last year) where it looks like he is getting it together and then he goes back to what he is doing so far this year.
Gomes and Heisey go yard and Reds pull one out last night. Looking good so far this year, but when is Jay Bruce going to start living up to his expectations. Remember a few years ago, he was going to be the superstar and Votto was almost an after thought. Can you imagine how tough this team could be for the next decade if he started putting up anything close to Votto-like numbers. He has stretches (late last year) where it looks like he is getting it together and then he goes back to what he is doing so far this year.
Good tough win for the Reds last night. Volquez gives up two in the first, but the Reds come back against a tough pitcher and the Reds' bullpen holds.
People thought Bruce was going to be a superstar mainly because he hit .500 over his first 20 games or so when he first got called up. He has started slow this year, and he strikes out too much, but last year he hit .281 with 25 homers and he was only 23 years old.
Not sure what you want from him. "Putting up anyting close to Votto-like numbers"...Votto was the MVP last year and contended for the Triple Crown. That's a pretty high bar.
Sam LeCure gets the start for the Reds tonight. He had a pretty decent first start against Houston.
macfan7358
04-12-2011, 09:30 AM
The Reds got a nice win against a very good Latos. Bruce had a nice swing in his last at bat...maybe that will get him on the right track. Heisey played outstanding. Ramon Hernandez made some great plays behind the plate, to help the Reds win. It was nice to see the Reds come back and win a game after that tough loss on Sunday in Phoenix. Hope Lecure throws well tonight.
osu_silveraider
04-12-2011, 10:36 AM
Happy with the start of the season and the bounce back win last night after a dissapointing loss Sunday. Keep it rollin'
Polar Bear 73
04-12-2011, 11:52 AM
People thought Bruce was going to be a superstar mainly because he hit .500 over his first 20 games or so when he first got called up. He has started slow this year, and he strikes out too much, but last year he hit .281 with 25 homers and he was only 23 years old.
Not sure what you want from him. "Putting up anyting close to Votto-like numbers"...Votto was the MVP last year and contended for the Triple Crown. That's a pretty high bar.
No, people thought Bruce was going to be a superstar because at one point he was named the number prospect in all of the minor leagues. He was (I believe) a number one draft pick, and his ascension to the majors had been highly anticipated and highly touted for a couple of years. That's why peple thought he was going to be a superstar. His first 20 games just seem to reaffirm those expectations.
What do I want from him? Consistency. He played great for about 20 games his first season, and about 50 last year. But he batted .223 the year before and this year he is on pace for 250 strikeouts and 0 home runs. Now, I know it is ridiculous to project 9 games out over an entire season, but that is what I mean by consistency. He has dropped to what, 7th in the batting order?
Don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan, and I expect that he will eventually start posting much better numbers, but even though he is 24 years old, he is in his 4th season.
No, people thought Bruce was going to be a superstar because at one point he was named the number prospect in all of the minor leagues. He was (I believe) a number one draft pick, and his ascension to the majors had been highly anticipated and highly touted for a couple of years. That's why peple thought he was going to be a superstar. His first 20 games just seem to reaffirm those expectations.
What do I want from him? Consistency. He played great for about 20 games his first season, and about 50 last year. But he batted .223 the year before and this year he is on pace for 250 strikeouts and 0 home runs. Now, I know it is ridiculous to project 9 games out over an entire season, but that is what I mean by consistency. He has dropped to what, 7th in the batting order?
Don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan, and I expect that he will eventually start posting much better numbers, but even though he is 24 years old, he is in his 4th season.
It's true, he did have a good minor league career. He was actually the 12th pick back in 2005.
More consistency would be good. His first full year in the majors (2009) was definitely a struggle. But I don't get how you can say that he only played well for 50 games last year. His overall stats for the year would have been much poorer.
Let's see how things shake out a bit here. Paul Janish is hitting .400 right now, so I agree we can't project out nine games to a whole season.
The big thing for me is that he strikes out too much. I had thought that he would be a better contact hitter, although maybe that was just an erroneous assumption of mine.
As I put my eye black on in preparation for tonight's game, I have to give a salute to the Indians. Hard to believe that the Reds' 7-3 mark is not the best record in the state of Ohio so far.
citybuck
04-12-2011, 09:07 PM
As I put my eye black on in preparation for tonight's game, I have to give a salute to the Indians. Hard to believe that the Reds' 7-3 mark is not the best record in the state of Ohio so far.
Agree, Nice job Tribe....Go Reds, Clayton Richard is tough the ex-UM QB is a solid pitcher.
bman618
04-13-2011, 12:33 AM
Nice win this morning for the Redlegs. Felt like San Diego should've won the game three times - and this is after they gift wrapped the Reds' second run - but the Reds held them off with some good defense and clutch pitching. Then the offense comes alive with some big hits by Gomes, Hanigan, Heisey, Renteria and then Stubbs blasting one over the wall dead center to put the exclamation point on.
Still need to get Masset going, but getting the win guarantees at worst a .500 trip west. Be nice to get the sweep later today.
Lancer '65
04-13-2011, 04:38 AM
The Reds are playing very well and it makes my son down in Mason extremely happy. I like it also. Keep it up, Reds! Win another Division Title and take it further this season. As for the Indians, it took a masterful 1 hit 2-0 shutout victory by Dan Haren last night in LA to end the Tribe streak at 8. Fausto pitched very well except for two mistakes that were both deposited in the outfield bleachers. Still, 8-3 isn't too bad and is probably a little better than even the most ardent Indians fan would have expected. It appears early on that Ohio teams may not be all that bad. In fact, maybe this will be one of those seasons that fans wait for for a long time....
dorciepatrick
04-13-2011, 04:45 AM
As a baseball purist from the old school, this Reds team is a pleasure to watch. What pleases me perhaps the most (besides the fact that they play hard every day) is the defense. Last night was a great example of a game that would have been lost in previous years.
Phillips' barehand stop up the middle, along with his throw to nip Venable at 1st in the 8th inning, was just one of several plays that literally kept the game tied until the 11th.
Blutarsky
04-13-2011, 07:52 AM
I was also impressed with Rolen's play behind third to save a run early in the game.......pretty athletic move for an "old guy"!!
Reds definitely made some big plays, nicely done to gut out a second consecutive tight win in San Diego.
Masset is the big concern right now for sure. In his last three appearances, he has given up either the tying and/or go-ahead runs. Not a good pattern. Each of the games was either tied or had the Reds up by one when he entered so they were tough situations, but you can't go oh-fer.
Masset is extremely fortunate he only gave up the tying run last night after allowing a single and double to start the inning and put guys at second and third with nobody out.
Travis Wood goes for the Reds this afternoon as they try for a sweep.
itsouttahere
04-13-2011, 09:29 AM
Can Chapman really not go 2 innings? He only threw 11 pitches. If he goes one more, we don't have to use Masset.
Can Chapman really not go 2 innings? He only threw 11 pitches. If he goes one more, we don't have to use Masset.
I agree. Masset certainly is a better pitcher than he is showing right now, and you can't blackball a guy because of a couple of bad outings, but it would be nice to let him get his confidence back by getting in a few innings when the Reds are either up by three or down by three. I'm not sure who the Reds' other right-handed setup options are, but right now I'd rather take my chances with Chapman or Bray against righties as opposed to letting Masset continue to give up runs in tie ballgames.
Reds and Padres underway, Reds going for the sweep. No score after 1 inning.
14Red
04-13-2011, 10:49 PM
One thing is for sure Massett's not pushing Coco for the closer role. I'd move Ondrusek ahead of Massett in the pen.
Yes, a tough loss for the Reds today. Still, all three of the games in San Diego could have gone either way. And it's hard to hang too much on the pitching when the offense only scored 7 runs in the 27 regulation innings. You won't win two out of three doing that too often.
Four consecutive outings for Masset where he has given up the tying, go-ahead, and/or winning run. Reds have lost four games, Masset has three losing decisions.
3-3 road trip certainly not the end of the world though.
Reds have an off day tomorrow, then start a three-game set against the Pirates. Pirates are off to a decent 5-6 start, but this is a team that the Reds really need to make hay against.
Lancer '65
04-14-2011, 07:25 AM
I guess Coco isn't so bad afterall. People are now saying that Massett isn't exactly pushing for the closer's job, and in fact should be moved even further back in the rotation. Coco is scary sometimes, but the record speaks pretty clearly to his overall value and success coming out of the Red's pen as the closer. Sometimes we shouldn't dismiss the geriatric members of the team. Experience does count for something!
I guess Coco isn't so bad afterall. People are now saying that Massett isn't exactly pushing for the closer's job, and in fact should be moved even further back in the rotation. Coco is scary sometimes, but the record speaks pretty clearly to his overall value and success coming out of the Red's pen as the closer. Sometimes we shouldn't dismiss the geriatric members of the team. Experience does count for something!
I agree totally with you. Coco isn't perfect by any means, but the closer's job is a thankless one. Everyone assumes that a closer should just come in and strike out three guys in a row, but that's not how the real world works. How many lockdown closers are there in the majors right now? Maybe a few.
Hopefully Masset will be fine (he started slowly last year too) but he needs some lower pressure situations to get his confidence back. Ondrusek threw 30 pitches on Tuesday night vs. 16 for Masset, that's the only reason I can think of for putting Masset in yesterday instead of Ondrusek. Add in the fact that Chapman is suddenly topping out in the mid-to-low 90s, which necessitated pulling him out a little earlier than usual.
Reds could easily have gone either 1-5 or 5-1 on this trip. Every game was tight except for the 13-2 drubbing in the opener in Arizona. All in all, 3-3 not too bad.
Seven-game homestand now for the Reds, 4 against the Pirates and 3 against the Diamondbacks.
After that, a big early road trip with three in St. Louis and three more in Milwaukee.
Hopefully the Reds can put together a nice 4-2 homestand before hitting the road.
tomindayton
04-14-2011, 02:27 PM
As I put my eye black on in preparation for tonight's game, I have to give a salute to the Indians. Hard to believe that the Reds' 7-3 mark is not the best record in the state of Ohio so far.
The Tribe is off to a great start this season! We will be heading to GABP over July 4th weekend to watch them lose to the Mighty Reds! Will it be a prelude to an October meeting? That would be very cool, but Bob Costas would hate it! ;)
Reds and Pirates set to get it on tonight. Arroyo going for the Reds, he's always done pretty well against the Pirates.
Drewline
04-15-2011, 01:41 PM
Reds and Pirates set to get it on tonight. Arroyo going for the Reds, he's always done pretty well against the Pirates.
Boy, you've jinxed him now.
Boy, you've jinxed him now.
Yes, I will certainly be held responsible if Arroyo loses tonight.
Let me try again.
Reds and Pirates set to get it on tonight. Bronson Arroyo, a notorious bum, will be starting for the Reds. Hopefully he doesn't give up 10 runs in the first inning like he did in Toronto a couple of years ago.
Chapman is going to sit for a couple days with shoulder tightness, and Phillips is out tonight with a groin pull. Reds will be a little shorthanded.
Drewline
04-15-2011, 01:52 PM
The Reds could really end up missing Big Arthur Rhoads after the year he had last season. I'm sure management felt between Masset and Chapman the set-up role was going to be covered. But with Rhoads two early season losses are probably wins going from 8-4 to 10-2.
Then again I understand you can't re-sign them all. Lets hope the day off has helped rest the arms in the bullpen.
Not starting too well. Pirates up 5-0 in the middle of the fourth. Arroyo uneffective thus far, and the Reds have only managed one hit.
Reds went on to lose game 1 6-1, but rebounded today to win 11-2.
Volquez on the mound Sunday for the Reds.
14Red
04-16-2011, 11:10 PM
The Reds could really end up missing Big Arthur Rhoads after the year he had last season. I'm sure management felt between Masset and Chapman the set-up role was going to be covered. But with Rhoads two early season losses are probably wins going from 8-4 to 10-2.
Then again I understand you can't re-sign them all. Lets hope the day off has helped rest the arms in the bullpen.
No, I agree with the Reds letting Rhodes walk last year. He was great for most of the season, but by the end he was struggling. He's older, has some injury issues. Bill Brey and Chapman will be fine as set up men. Maloney is also in the mix.
Masset will probably be fine as well, he's a much better pitcher than he's shown lately. I'll be interested to see why Chapman suddenly lost 10 mph...
14Red
04-16-2011, 11:54 PM
I'd have Massett on a short rope for the near future. I'd move Ondrusek up a spot. Also remember, when Cueto / Bailey are back, LeCure could move to the pen.
Reds are going to have to make a comeback again today, Volquez has been tagged for four runs in the first inning.
Unbelievable how much this guy struggles in the first inning this year. Coming into today he had a first inning ERA of 27. In other innings his ERA is below 1.50.
He has given up back-to-back home runs to start the game - for the second time in four starts!
At least the Reds have a lot of innings to mount a comeback, but Volquez cannot keep putting the Reds in 3 or 4-run holes every single start.
cross_block
04-17-2011, 01:04 PM
I'm starting to think Carpenter is right....this guy's a head case.....
cross_block
04-17-2011, 02:07 PM
Exit Volquez.....6 EARNED runs in 5 2/3 innings......
Volquez with six walks today, always his biggest problem.
The Reds actually managed to come back to lead 5-4, fell behind 6-5, and tied it at 6 before losing it 7-6.
Obviously Volquez struggled. On the offensive side the Reds had 15 hits but could only manage six runs thanks to 13 men left on base.
Travis Wood will try to get the Reds a series split in the finale tomorrow night.
14Red
04-17-2011, 10:47 PM
Good news for the weekend, Cueto and Bailey both pitched at Louisville and pitched well. I think Volquez could be in danger of being shipped down. He's the weak link right now. It all has to do with command of pitches. You can't consistently be 3-1, 2-0 on every batter. He throws 50 pitched by midway through the 2nd inning! Offensively, too many men left on base today.
Good news for the weekend, Cueto and Bailey both pitched at Louisville and pitched well. I think Volquez could be in danger of being shipped down. He's the weak link right now. It all has to do with command of pitches. You can't consistently be 3-1, 2-0 on every batter. He throws 50 pitched by midway through the 2nd inning! Offensively, too many men left on base today.
He is not in any danger of being sent down. Yet.
Drewline
04-18-2011, 10:04 AM
As long as Bird doesn't post how well either one of them typically do against their next opponent they should be fine.
Reds still in first do to the rest of the Central getting beat (Brewers swept in DH).
Arthur Rhoads touched up by the meat of the Yankees order to get the loss last night.
Reds are off to a feces-filled start yet AGAIN, thanks to a pitcher whose performance I did not describe until now - Travis "I'm going to pitch a feces-filled first inning tonight" Wood. Reds fall behind 3-0 in the first inning. They've gotten one back in the bottom of the second, 3-1 Pirates with the Reds still batting.
Bucs will actually pull within a game of the Reds if they can win tonight.
In other news, Mike Leake got arrested for shoplifting from Macy's earlier today after allegedly removing the tags from six shirts and trying to leave the store. I'm sure we'll hear more about this.
5-1 Pirates now in the fourth inning.
Drewline
04-18-2011, 06:57 PM
T. Wood apparently has a touch of what has been ailing E. Volquez all season.
8-1 Pirates now, Wood out of the game.
The Reds will be 9-7 after this game barring a big comeback, not in terrible shape or anything, but this has been an awful series.
Arroyo went four innings, Volquez 5 2/3, and Wood lasted 3 1/3. The only pitcher who had a decent start just got arrested.
The starting pitching is not good right now. Several pitchers have looked good at times, but nobody has looked reliable. Arroyo has probably pitched the best.
Meanwhile the offense has piled up one hit in five innings tonight.
Pirates finish off the Reds 9-3, taking three out of four games.
Reds are 9-7 and lead every other team except the Astros by one game.
Diamondbacks come to town now, they just took two of three from the Reds a week and a half ago...
Lancer '65
04-19-2011, 03:39 AM
Has anyone seen the Red's pitching anywhere? Perhaps we should send out an APB?
dorciepatrick
04-19-2011, 06:32 AM
Who would have thought that we'd be looking to Sam LeCure to pull the Reds out of their pitching funk? Hurry back, Homer Bailey and Johnny Cueto!
The old axiom of "You can't have too much pitching" once again holds true.
centerback
04-19-2011, 01:11 PM
Not good when you get ruffed up by the Pirates!
14Red
04-19-2011, 02:18 PM
You just never know how pitchers are going to react from one season to the next. The Reds are polar opposites of last year. Last year, the Reds got great starting pitching, got deep into games with the starter, then turned it over the bullpen. This year, they can’t get through the early innings without being behind. The defense has not been horrible, just the pitching. And a lot has been 2 strike pitching, you’ve got to have a out pitch you can go to.
Well last year the starting pitching got roughed up in the first few weeks of the season and everybody was panicking. It's definitely a concern this season early again. LeCure's ERA is 2.25 heading into tonight's game. Arroyo's is 4.24. Volquez, Leake, and Wood are all on the wrong side of 5.
Most alarming is that the Reds are 28th in the league in walks issued.
The Diamondbacks have generally poor pitching, hopefully the offense can get going a little more as well.
14Red
04-19-2011, 03:32 PM
It’s certainly not panic time, this team is built for the long haul and the pitching will get better. The Reds success last season was largely due to beating the bad teams in the National League. Now, maybe the Pirates are not going to be one of the bad teams this year, but you just can’t lose 3 of 4 at home to the Pirates.
Reds and Diamondbacks just starting up. Sam LeCure has given up a solo homer in the first, Reds trail 1-0. Of course, in comparison to the last few days this counts as a hot start.
Reds tie it up in the second on a Janish sac fly. 1-1.
14Red
04-19-2011, 11:00 PM
Thank goodness the Reds started the season 5-0, they are somehow still a game over .500 after this dry spell. Votto has struggled on this homestand, he's striking out on the high pitch, he'll keep getting it unless he starts hitting.
The Reds are still in a first-place tie, but with Milwaukee up 3-0 already today, St. Louis and the Cubs both playing double headers, and Pittsburgh playing tonight, it's possible for the Reds to fall into a tie for fourth place with another loss today.
Standings aside, the Reds need a good outing from Leake. Hopefully he's more successful as a pitcher than a thief.
Game 2 against the Diamondbacks under way, AGAIN the Reds have been scored on in the first inning. Diamondbacks up 1-0.
Honestly, what is the major league record for consecutive games giving up a run in the first inning? Probably way more than four but this is getting silly. Arroyo needed 22 pitches to get through the inning.
Arroyo touched up for another run in the second. 2-0 Arizona, end of the third. Reds have no hits through three innings.
Hamler Bulldogs
04-20-2011, 06:58 PM
looks like they've just been going through the motions the last few games,time to start playing some serious ball!
Arroyo has settled down and is pitching very efficiently. He's retired 13 in a row. But the Reds still haven't managed to get anything going offensively.
Middle of the sixth, still 2-0 Diamondbacks.
Reds get 1 in the bottom of the inning, 2-1 Diamondbacks.
cross_block
04-21-2011, 03:10 AM
Reds lose........now a .500 ball club.
Lancer '65
04-21-2011, 04:09 AM
Being a fan of Ohio baseball is always an interesting adventure. Here are the Indians, looking like world beaters, getting timely hitting and very impressive pitching, both from the starters and from the pen, and then we have the Reds who are playing..well playing like the Indians usually do. Would the real Cincinnati Reds stand up, and would the real Cleveland Indians stay away and let the Indians fans have some fun this season.
Let's keep a little perspective. Reds had how many losing seasons in a row prior to last year? So 9-9 is hardly rock bottom. As a matter of fact, they are still in first place. An odd-looking 4-way tie for the division lead right now, with the Cubs, Brewers, Cardinals, and Reds all at 9-9.
Yes, the starting pitching needs to improve.
Yes, the hitting has dropped off.
Yes, Mike Leake needs to find a new hobby.
But the Reds will play better this year than they have shown over the past week. Today would be a good time to start. Reds will try to avoid the sweep with Mike Leake starting the businessman's special on getaway day.
Reds could use a little momentum as they head out for a road trip to Milwaukee and St. Louis after today's game.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 09:40 AM
Mike Leake and the Business Man's special has a strange sound to it following the unfortunate events of last Monday. Geesh, what in the world was the kid thinking?
Starting to look like a decent day for a game in GABP. Wish I was there. Lets end the slide.
Game is underway...AGAIN the Reds have given up a first-inning run, thanks to a double and a two-out single.
Five consecutive games the Reds have been trailing before they even come to bat.
Unbelievable.
Reds have come back strong with 4 in the bottom of the first...two of the runs scored on bases-loaded walks.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 12:14 PM
How about some hold 'em there pitching, now.
4-2 after three innings. Both pitchers seem to have settled down but it would be nice for the Reds to add on a few runs.
4-3, middle of the fifth. Reds have the top of the lineup coming to the plate, would be a good time to prop the lead back up.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 12:58 PM
4-3, definately would be nice to get some more offense. Masset may still pitch yet today!
Drewline
04-21-2011, 01:04 PM
Joey!
Right on cue, solo homer by Votto makes it 5-3.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 01:22 PM
Insurance!
Reds add two more in the sixth, lead back up to 7-3. HOPEFULLY this can turn into an easy win from here.
Reds only have six hits to produce the seven runs, but they've been timely (mixed in with a couple of walks).
Baker let Leake hit in the bottom of the sixth, and with only 81 pitches so far hoepfully he could go another couple of innings. He's only given up four hits.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 01:28 PM
Heisey leading off 0-4 is surprising.
Leake out of the game, 7IP, 3 earned runs, 4 hits.
Sure he's a felon. But he's also going to get the Reds' only two wins of the homestand.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:00 PM
Not a felony amount $58 (under $500). Community service and his record will be expunged (sp?) being a first offender - and hopefully last in a shoplifting scenario.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:02 PM
With this losing streak Cordero must be rusty?!
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:06 PM
Oops I was a right. A lead off HR. Thanks for insurance.
Boergermeister
04-21-2011, 02:06 PM
Looks Leake steals a win for the REDS.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:07 PM
Getting rid of the rust, two SO's to follow HR.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:07 PM
Looks Leake steals a win for the REDS.
You were just waiting to post that!
Boergermeister
04-21-2011, 02:09 PM
Couldn't help myself.
Drewline
04-21-2011, 02:12 PM
Can't wait to use it myself but the game isn't over...tying run at the plate!
Boergermeister
04-21-2011, 02:16 PM
Coco does it again. Likes to leave the fans ready to kill him.
Coco does it again. Likes to leave the fans ready to kill him.
Unlike most of the other Reds pitchers on this homestand, he did his job.
Wasn't pretty, but when you've lost five of six you're not going for style points.
Reds now head into their most important two series of April. Six on the road against the two teams most likely to challenge the Reds for the division title this year. Great time to either make an early statement or dig yourself an early hole.
Reds and Cardinals set to kick it off at 8:15 Reds time tonight.
Three biggest questions for tonight's game, and only one of them really has anything to do with who will win:
1) Will the Cardinals throw at Brandon Phillips after the brouhaha last year?
2) How creative will the Cardinals fans be in taunting Mike Leake? Leake will not be pitching in the series but I'm sure we'll see some creativity.
3) Can Edison Volquez get through a first inning unscathed? He seems to do fairly well from the second inning on but the first inning has been ridiculously unkind to him.
14Red
04-22-2011, 03:41 PM
I’m sure LaRussa will try some kind of shenanigans this weekend. It’s all about him, you know.
Leake is fortunate he’s not pitching there, but he’s going to pitch in away parks at some point. Hey do the crime, deal with the consequences.
We can only hope that Volquez gets straightened out. Actually the entire staff. You can’t continue to play from behind all the time.
macfan7358
04-22-2011, 04:42 PM
I would expect to see Phillips or Votto hit tonight (maybe even Gomes). I think the Cardinals will do that in front of their home crowd. Of course that whiner Carpenter pitches Saturday, expect payback the next day if the Cardinals do something stupid.
As far as the series goes, Cardinals win at least 2 out of 3. The Cardinals are playing well right now...the Reds not so much.
Gomes might get hit after word got out that he was celebrating when he heard that Wainwright is out for the year. He says he didn't, but I know what the Cardinals think.
Rolen is out, he just got a couple of cortisone shots. I like Rolen's leadership and he has a history of getting clutch hits, but he's just not going to be able to hack it as the everyday third-baseman. Cairo gets the start tonight. I do think Rolen has a role on this team but the utility guys will need to fill in for him quite a bit this year.
14Red
04-22-2011, 09:56 PM
Odd happenings at St. Louis tonight. The game was delayed by rain after on batter and two pitches. Typically, major league games will delay the start when they know rain is coming. Hurt the Reds because Volquez had to be shelved and Maloney starts.
Fallen Timbers
04-22-2011, 10:44 PM
Maloney got hit hard tonight
Maloney was not good, but the rest of the bullpen pitched well. Reds give up at least a run in the first inning for the SIXTH consecutive game.
Seriously, what is the major league record?
Big problem was on the offensive side tonight though. Reds pile up 10 hits but can only convert them into two runs. Lots of chances but the Reds go 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position.
The Reds have fallen out of first place for the first time this year. Travis Wood takes on Chris Carpenter this afternoon. The Reds haven't beaten Chris Carpenter in five years. He's the Reds' new Roy Oswalt. Reds need to find a way to win today, no good to start the road trip with the possibility of a sweep.
Reds even the series with a nice win today. Travis Wood with a decent outing, Votto hits a 2-run home run to keep the Reds in it, and the Cardinals' bullpen walks in a run to tie the game and then allows Miguel Cairo's two-run single for the go-ahead runs.
Cardinals' bullpen could be their big question mark this year, and it definitely hurt them today.
LeCure vs. Westbrook tomorrow night in the nationally televised rubber game. It would be great for the Reds to pull out an early series win on the road in St. Louis.
macfan7358
04-23-2011, 09:23 PM
Nice comeback win for the Reds...they had trouble getting a lot of hits, but Cairo and Votto had a couple of big hits when they needed them. See if the Reds can win the series tomorrow night.
mustanger
04-24-2011, 01:35 PM
I was surprised LaRussa pulled Carpenter. I mean this guy owns the Reds. Cardinal bullpen not so good and neither is their defense.
Volquez will now be starting for the Reds tonight...first pitch in under an hour. I live in the San Francisco area and don't have too many opportunities to watch the Reds play, will be nice to tune in tonight.
Rolen officially on the DL today...looks like Cairo is going to be seeing a lot of action at third base.
Volquez gets through the first inning unscathed...
fanfromftw
04-24-2011, 07:30 PM
I was surprised LaRussa pulled Carpenter. I mean this guy owns the Reds. Cardinal bullpen not so good and neither is their defense.
it started raining and he didn't want to risk injury to his ACE...easy choice; tough result though from the bullpen.
Three complete in St. Louis, no score yet. Cardinals have had baserunners but Volquez hasn't allowed anyone across. Reds are still looking for their first hit against Jake Westbrook.
Is there a reason ESPN insists on showing the strike zone box? It doesn't necessarily line up right because of the camera angle, the umpire isn't going to call the game that way, and you don't see where the ball passes through the box when it passes the plate. And oh yeah, we've all watched baseball before and we're not stupid.
Fallen Timbers
04-24-2011, 09:05 PM
The Reds really need a good hitting 5 hole hitter. Johnny Goomes is a great guy who hustles and has moxie, but he really isn't a good hitter and is killing the Reds.
Fallen Timbers
04-24-2011, 09:15 PM
Well that 3 run blast might do it for the Reds in this game. The Reds let too many chances slip by.
A shame that Volquez gave up the home run, but all in all he pitched pretty well. You're not going to beat anybody getting shut out. 3-0, middle of the eighth. Reds will have one last crack at it.
Reds go down 3-0, dropping the series. Three in Milwaukee coming up next...
14Red
04-25-2011, 09:13 AM
Last night’s game’s on the offense. We’re talking Jake Westbrook folks, it we can’t hit him, we may as well pack it in. Volquez pitched very well, he deserved a better fate. The pitch Molina hit out was actually a pretty good pitch, down and in. Sometimes it happens. For the most part, the Reds had a decent series, they could have easily won all three games, and they could have lost all three.
Right now the main concern is the cleanup spot in the lineup. Gomes and Bruce have not been consistent enough to make teams want to pitch to Votto. There are going to be a lot of walks coming Votto's way if the Reds cannot find a more dependable hitter for the cleanup spot.
14Red
04-25-2011, 02:26 PM
Fair play? Here’s supposedly what happened in St. Louis on Friday night. The game was scheduled to start at 7:15 PM. The start of the game is controlled by the home team, not the umpires or major league baseball. Rain was imminent. The Reds and the umpiring crew were told by the Cardinals that there was a 45 minute to 1 hour window to start the game, so the Reds proceeded to get Volquez ready for his start.
Two minutes and six pitches into the game (thrown by St. Louis bullpen pitcher Batista), the rains came and the game was delayed?? You know the story, St. Louis then came back with their regular starter McClellan, and the Reds had already burnt Volquez and had to throw Matt Maloney.
I hope major league baseball takes a look into this situation. The Cardinals told the Reds (and worse) the umpires that they had a window of an hour to start the game, when they MAY have known it was merely minutes.
Reds and Brewers starting the series in Milwaukee. Arroyo on the hill for the Reds tonight. Reds go down 1-2-3, Arroyo gives up a two-out single and walk but nothing else. 0-0 after 1.
Bruce up to #2 in the order tonight, Phillips pushed back to the cleanup spot. Probably a good experiment. We need somebody at the #4 spot who will make the opposing pitcher throw to Votto. Phillips is probably the best option. Jay Bruce is not the ideal #2 hitter but the Reds don't really have another option other than Phillips for that spot. Maybe Cairo. But the bottom line is that Jay Bruce and Johnny Gomes are going to have to start putting the ball in play more consistently.
As if on cue, Phillips hits a ground rule double to start the fourth. He came out flat the first series of the year but he's been hitting really well since then. Then Gomes strikes out, failing to advance Phillips to set up a sac fly. Single and a groundout get Phillips around though, 1-0 Reds.
fanfromftw
04-25-2011, 07:31 PM
Fair play? Here’s supposedly what happened in St. Louis on Friday night. The game was scheduled to start at 7:15 PM. The start of the game is controlled by the home team, not the umpires or major league baseball. Rain was imminent. The Reds and the umpiring crew were told by the Cardinals that there was a 45 minute to 1 hour window to start the game, so the Reds proceeded to get Volquez ready for his start.
Two minutes and six pitches into the game (thrown by St. Louis bullpen pitcher Batista), the rains came and the game was delayed?? You know the story, St. Louis then came back with their regular starter McClellan, and the Reds had already burnt Volquez and had to throw Matt Maloney.
I hope major league baseball takes a look into this situation. The Cardinals told the Reds (and worse) the umpires that they had a window of an hour to start the game, when they MAY have known it was merely minutes.
you left out the part about the Cardinals ALSO telling the Reds that they were not starting McClellan and using Batista instead....the Reds blew it by warming up Volquez when anyone in their right mind could look at the weather report and see they wouldn't get through more than 30 minutes.
Reds offense busting out in the third, starting the inning with five straight hits:
Stubbs single
Bruce 2-run homer
Votto double
Phillips RBI single
Gomes RBI single
Cairo flyout
Hanigan RBI double
Still only one out, 6-0 Reds.
Brewers starter is out, but now Arroyo gets into the act with a two-out RBI single. 7-0 Reds.
Hopefully Arroyo can make it look easy from here.
Game is getting a little closer than we'd like but the Reds are still on top 9-5 in the bottom of the ninth. Three hits each for Stubbs and Phillips, and a solid outing for Arroyo (bullpen is giving up the runs in garbage time).
9-5 the final. Nice easy win for the Reds to start the series, evening their record on the road trip at 2-2. Mike Leake scheduled to start for the Reds tomorrow night. Hopefully they can continue to play the Brewers tough.
14Red
04-25-2011, 11:07 PM
Hats off to Bronson Arroyo, he made his 300th appearance as a major league player. He has a career record of 105-95, not earth shattering numbers, but he takes the ball every 5 days. He has pitched 200+ innings the past 6 seasons with a career 4.19 ERA.
lmavcch3
04-25-2011, 11:15 PM
Maybe the Reds can steal one with Leake tomorrow. (Sorry, couldn't help it.) Go Reds.
Hats off to Bronson Arroyo, he made his 300th appearance as a major league player. He has a career record of 105-95, not earth shattering numbers, but he takes the ball every 5 days. He has pitched 200+ innings the past 6 seasons with a career 4.19 ERA.
His record would be a lot better if he hadn't spent all but two years pitching for the Bucs and Reds.
Arroyo is going to put together a nice career before he's through. He's extremely durable, and he doesn't overthrow so he could probably pitch for quite awhile if he wants to.
lmavcch3
04-26-2011, 05:18 AM
Arroyo is a nice guy too. Was watching batting practice last year with my son when Bronson came up and starting a conversation with him. Probably talked to him for 10-15 minutes about pitching and baseball. Funny side note, he wasn't allowed to sign a ball for my son due to the carpal tunnel. Wish him nothing but the best.
14Red
04-26-2011, 08:50 AM
Arryoy’s one of those guys that has to be really sharp to be effective. He never cracks 90 MPH, he’s normally 85-86 MPH and throws all those variations of curves and sliders at different speeds. A true pitcher.
Drewline
04-26-2011, 08:59 AM
A true veteran pitcher on the mound. If his curveball is breaking he is tough to hit hard. Since he uses mostly breaking stuff, batters must knock the stuffing out to get the ball out of the park. Last night they hit him hard but the balls stayed in the park since they were breaking pitches and not fastballs. The Reds' announcer Welsh (former pitcher) said teams can't keep an accurate book on Arroyo because he comes into each game with a different strategy and mix of pitches to further keep hitters off guard.
Reds needed a nice offensive output last night along with a solid performance from Arroyo to get back on track. Never been a huge fan of indoor baseball but in April it is kind of nice to see a dry ballgame for a change. The players must have enjoyed it as well.
I'm putting the eye black on for tonight's game, starting in a half hour. Sticky Fingers Leake throwing for the Reds.
And away we go. Bruce gets a one-out walk but the inning ends with a GIDP by Votto.
Fielder with a solo shot. Brewers lead 1-0 after three innings.
cwindian
04-26-2011, 07:08 PM
Time for the Reds to run off about 5 wins in a row. I like the Reds new batting order. Have to protect Voto somehow.
Well they just walked Votto and Phillips followed up with a two-run shot. So much for that plan for the Brewers. 2-1 Reds, middle of the fourth.
Ryan Braun homers for the Brewers to tie it in the bottom of the fourth.
14Red
04-26-2011, 10:37 PM
Reds are having some real offensive issues. Two of the last three days, they've spoiled great pitching performances by Volquez Sunday night, and Leake tonight.
14Red
04-26-2011, 10:43 PM
Excellent topic on 700 WLW's Lance McCalister's show before tonight's Reds game. Reds 2nd baseman Brandon Phillips is in the final year of his contract. The Reds can keep him for a one year option of 12 mill for next season. Or they can pay him 1 mill and let him walk. He's 30 years old in June. What do you think the Reds should do?
My opinion is in BP, you have one of the most talented athletes in baseball. He's one of the best defensive second baseman in baseball, and he's hit in nearly every spot in the lineup. I'd offer him a 4 year deal in the $30 mill ballpark, about $7 mill per year. In a year or two, I'd move him over to 3rd base.
dorciepatrick
04-27-2011, 04:53 AM
I'm just hoping the Reds can tread water until Scott Rolen gets back. It's amazing what his absence does to the batting order -- not to mention the drop-off defensively.
Last night, moving Janish to 3rd was fine but Renteria's range and arm are noticeably deficient at SS.
We need Rolen back!
14Red
04-27-2011, 08:23 AM
dorciepatrick, if you are pinning this season on the return of Scott Rolan, we’re in deep trouble. The Reds should have addressed this during the off season. Rolan’s days of being a regular starter are over. He couldn’t make it though last season. He was shot by August, Sept and the playoffs. Janish is an excellent fill in at third, as is Cairo. You could also flip flop Renteria and Janish. But Rolan will not be an everyday third baseman for this team again.
dorciepatrick, if you are pinning this season on the return of Scott Rolan, we’re in deep trouble. The Reds should have addressed this during the off season. Rolan’s days of being a regular starter are over. He couldn’t make it though last season. He was shot by August, Sept and the playoffs. Janish is an excellent fill in at third, as is Cairo. You could also flip flop Renteria and Janish. But Rolan will not be an everyday third baseman for this team again.
This is all true. I like Rolen and he can certainly be a valuable contributor for this team, but between his age and his health issues he is not going to be able to be the everyday third baseman. That's been clear for awhile now.
Reds waste a good outing by Leake. Only two hits for the Reds - the home run by Phillips and an infield single by Leake.
LeCure pitches in today's game at 1:10 Reds time. Reds could really use a series win to record a 3-3 record on the road trip.
Reds jumping out to an early lead. Votto hits a 3-run HR and Janish adds a sac fly. Reds bat around and lead 4-0 after half an inning. Five hits in the first inning after two all of last night.
Brewers cut the lead to 4-2 with a pair of runs in the third.
Brewers have added another run in the fourth, 4-3 Reds.
Brewers tie it with an unearned run in the fifth. Reds have two men on with nobody out in the sixth, trying to retake the lead. Both starters are out. Votto and Phillips hit back to back RBI singles to make it 6-4 Reds.
Jordan Smith coughs it right back up in the bottom of the sixth. 6-6.
Still 6-6 after seven innings. Nick Masset pitched a scoreless seventh. After his early troubles he seems to be throwing well again. That's seven consecutive scoreless innings over his last five appearances. We'll see if he's back out for the eighth.
Nope. Ondrusek and Chapman have created a nice jam here in the eighth. Ondrusek gives up a walk and a hit, then Chapman hits a batter. Bases loaded with one out. Reds look primed to lose the game in the bottom of the eighth for the second day in a row. Chapman gets out of it. Heading to the ninth, tied at 6.
Stubbs hits a solo homer in the 10th, Cordero will be coming in to try to close it out...and he does with a nice 1-2-3 10th inning.
Good win for the Reds today to finish out a 3-3 road trip. Reds are 5-1 against the Brewers, 8-11 against everybody else.
Off day tomorrow, then home for three against the surprising Marlins and three more against the Astros.
tomindayton
04-27-2011, 05:17 PM
Great win for our Reds today. Staying .500 on the road ain't bad, now rest up tomorrow and have a winning home stand vs the Marlins and Astros.
Early in the thread I said if the Reds are going to be successful, they need to take things one opponent series at a time and win each series. The Reds have played 8 series and have won 4 and lost 4. Treading water while having some great and exciting games.
It would just be nice if they could start separating themselves from the rest. Might be a long season but I'm confident they can stay in the hunt and will be playing in October.
Travis Wood on the mound tonight for the Reds against the surprising Marlins, who are 15-8 and only a half game back of the Phillies.
Well, Ye Olde Homestand could have started out on a better note. Travis Wood has given up five runs in the top of the first inning, largely thanks to a 3-run home run. The pitcher also added an RBI single. If the Reds want to win they'll have to dig their way out of a hole. Of course, they were leading 4-0 after a half inning of their previous games but had to go 10 innings to win it.
Bruce homers to put the Reds on the board. Wood comes out on FIRE in the second inning, allowing no runs. 5-1 Marlins.
7-1 Marlins after 3 and a half. Marlins with 10 hits already. Reds with one, the Bruce solo home run. Wood is out.
Jeremy Hermida whacks a three run home run after walks to Bruce and Votto in the bottom of the fourth. Reds pull within 7-4. Amazingly, despite giving up five first-inning runs and having accumulated only 2 hits, the Reds are not out of this game.
ERAs of Reds starters, including Wood's outing tonight:
Arroyo 3.64
Leake 4.40
LeCure 4.57
Volquez 6.35
Wood 6.82
Reds mount a comeback but lose 7-6.
Reds are at 13-13 and have alternated wins and losses for nine straight games. They are treading water in every sense of the phrase.
Volquez will be going for the Reds Saturday evening.
14Red
04-29-2011, 11:41 PM
At some point,the starting pitching has to get better. It seems like the Reds are always behind. Hard to play that way.
Fallen Timbers
04-30-2011, 01:21 AM
Volquez 6.35
Wood 6.82
Horrible
tomindayton
04-30-2011, 10:23 AM
Cueto and Homer will be here soon!
Big win for the Reds tonight. Volquez only allowed one run, but five walks ran up his pitch count and he only lasted five innings. Chapman was set to be the goat after allowing two runs in the top of the eighth to give the Marlins a 3-0 lead. But the Reds rallied for three in the eighth inning to tie the game, then won it in the tenth on a two-out single by Edgar Renteria. Cordero pitched two scoreless innings for the win (he has been very solid so far this year). A nice comeback to avoid what was looking like a discouraging defeat...
Bronson Arroyo will try to win the series for the Reds tomorrow in a late-afternoon start. It would be great to win the series against a hot Marlins team before the Astros come to town.
Lancer '65
05-01-2011, 04:00 AM
I think we need to remember the key point made here by bird. He may scare us and keep us on the edge of our seats the majority of the time, and send us into rants that are peppered with terms that are not often used in mixed company, but don't forget that "Cordero pitched two scoreless innings for the win..." and that "he has been very solid so far this year." Dusty can't pitch for them, but he pulls the strings and puts who he thinks will do the best job out there at crunch time and Coco has been doing a really nice job. In fact, all things considered, he is currently doing the best job of holding the enemy at bay of anyone out in the pen.
I think we need to remember the key point made here by bird. He may scare us and keep us on the edge of our seats the majority of the time, and send us into rants that are peppered with terms that are not often used in mixed company, but don't forget that "Cordero pitched two scoreless innings for the win..." and that "he has been very solid so far this year." Dusty can't pitch for them, but he pulls the strings and puts who he thinks will do the best job out there at crunch time and Coco has been doing a really nice job. In fact, all things considered, he is currently doing the best job of holding the enemy at bay of anyone out in the pen.
Everybody seems to think there are 30 Mariano Riveras out there. There aren't. The closer role is a tough job. Cordero blew too many saves last year but it's not as if there is another guy that you can just stick in there. Look at Chapman, he's pitching well this year but had a terrible night last night. It happens. If fans are going to jump on Cordero when he blows a save, they should also salute him when he's pitching well. He's doing an excellent job so far this year, hopefully in continues.
Reds are going to drop the rubber game today.
It's been a home run derby, with all the runs scoring on long balls, and the Reds are losing the battle 5-2.
Marlins are leading 9-3 in the top of the ninth.
Reds have not led any game in this series during live play at any time.
The Reds' starters are back to their first-inning woes, giving up first-inning runs in all three games this weekend (8 runs total).
Reds are trying to mount a giant ninth-inning comeback, but assuming they come up short it means the Reds have alternated wins and losses for 11 straight games now. They are 14-14, things could be worse but they'll need to get better. This was their approximate record this time last year too.
The Marlins do finish off the series win, 9-5 the final.
Reds now host Houston for three games as they head into a stretch of 16 straight division games:
3 vs Astros
3 at Cubs
3 at Astros
3 vs Cardinals
2 vs Cubs
2 vs Pirates
This would be a great time to snap out of it.
14Red
05-01-2011, 10:41 PM
The Reds won the division last year beating up on the bad teams. This gave them a false sense of security. Let's face it, this team really isn't that good. It'a absolutely unreal that a major league pitcher can't get out of the first inning without giving up runs. They are behind ALL the time. Hopefully, the schedule will allow them to stay in it, but at some point you have to become a good team.
The Reds won the division last year beating up on the bad teams. This gave them a false sense of security. Let's face it, this team really isn't that good. It'a absolutely unreal that a major league pitcher can't get out of the first inning without giving up runs. They are behind ALL the time. Hopefully, the schedule will allow them to stay in it, but at some point you have to become a good team.
Well I don't agree with that 14Red. If the Reds were not that good of a team last year, why couldn't the Cardinals beat them? And the Cardinals aren't much different personnel-wise this year either. I live in San Francisco where all the fans are pumped up this year, but we could easily say the same thing about them. They were .500 for most of the year, then had two hot months. They really aren't that good either.
14Red
05-02-2011, 09:18 AM
Bird, I didn’t say the Cardinals are good. They are pretty thin in depth both in starting pitching, bullpen and their daily lineup. Freeze is now out with a broken bone in his hand for awhile. But, I knew the Giants had a chance last year because their starting pitching is much, much better than the Reds. Lincecum, Cain and Sanchez are a group of the best three starters you’ll find in baseball, and with Wilson closing, they are solid. I don’t have that same feeling about the Reds.
57chevy
05-02-2011, 11:42 AM
Reds have some injuries, especially at the SP spots. IT's baseball, they can't win every game. Consistency is what we are looking for and over the course of the year they have been consistent. Started out hot and now need to pull it together. They will get on a hot streak soon. I see the Reds winning the division or wild card and winning in the first round of the playoffs... then we'll see what they can do! Go Reds!
Bird, I didn’t say the Cardinals are good. They are pretty thin in depth both in starting pitching, bullpen and their daily lineup. Freeze is now out with a broken bone in his hand for awhile. But, I knew the Giants had a chance last year because their starting pitching is much, much better than the Reds. Lincecum, Cain and Sanchez are a group of the best three starters you’ll find in baseball, and with Wilson closing, they are solid. I don’t have that same feeling about the Reds.
I agree on the Giants' pitching. However, keep in mind that last year they were benefitted by an almost freakish lack of injuries. I read a stat that mentioned that they had four starters make at least 30 starts last year, and that's only the 17th time that's happened for any team since 1900 (something like that). We'll see if they can stay as healthy this year.
I agree, the Reds pitching is good but certainly nowhere near as good as the Giants. It should help to get Cueto and Bailey back. The Reds were certainly handicapped by having two starters on the DL for the first month of the season. The Reds also have a better offense than the Giants as well.
It's funny...for the past 15 years a .500 April would have been a positive sign for Reds fans. One division title and now it's a letdown!
14Red
05-02-2011, 01:40 PM
Believe me, I’m as big a Reds fan as anyone, I just want people to throttle down the expectations. A return trip to the playoffs is about as far as this team can go. They have NO #1 starter, I’m not sure they have a #2. They have #3’s and #4’s. The offense is good, but as we’ve already seen, there is a lack of consistency. Gomes is absolutely terrible now, and he’s still hitting in the #5 or #6 hole. I hope Bailey and Cueto can help, but are they any more than a #3 or #4 starter? Votto and Phillips is about the only consistent offense right now.
Looks like the Reds have been rained out tonight.
I agree about Bailey and Cueto. It will help when they come back, but neither of them are Cy Young contenders (although I'd love to be wrong about that).
Bruce, Stubbs, and Gomes all need to step things up a bit. They don't have to be All Stars, they just need to support Phillips and Votto a little more consistently.
14Red
05-03-2011, 08:40 AM
Dusty was going to shake things up a little last night. Heard the pre game lineup and Renteria was going to play third and bat in the #2 hole. Bruce is going to be one of those guys that is going to have to bat in the #6 hole or lower. He just strikes out too much to be in the top of the order. I think the Reds are going to regret giving him that big contract. He’s just got too many deficiencies. He’s a good ball player, but I don’t think he’ll live up to that contract.
Question about Bailey, Cueto. Why does it take major league pitchers a month to pitch in the big leagues. If they can or can’t pitch, why do they do it in Louisville? They have each had 3 / 4 rehab starts now. If we had great starting pitching, I’d be ok, but this team is struggling.
Reds' starting pitching getting whapped around yet again. Tonight it's Mike Leake's turn. Seven runs before being yanked in the fourth inning.
7-1 Astros, Reds appear to be heading below .500 for the first time this season.
citybuck
05-03-2011, 08:09 PM
This Reds team is really struggling, lets hope they turn it around soon...
This Reds team is really struggling, lets hope they turn it around soon...
Well it's all relative...the Reds are 5-7 over their last twelve games. If that's "really struggling" then they'll be fine this year. But they just can't seem to build up any momentum on offense or defense right now.
57chevy
05-03-2011, 10:40 PM
Is it just me or does Bruce seem to be taking a poor approach at the plate? He is too much feast or famine and in love with swinging for the fences a la Adam Dunn... When he came up I saw him spraying the ball all over the field hitting singles and doubles and I was pumped. Now something is off in his approach and he gets behind a lot. I never anticipated him being a power hitter. He needs to watch the quality at bats Votto gets and learn a little about hitting...
mustanger
05-04-2011, 09:56 AM
It is way past time to end the Johnny Gomes experiment. Put Heisey in for a while and see what he can do. he would be an upgrade defensely at least. Get Cueto and Baily up and pitching, the current starters are horrid.
Hamler Bulldogs
05-04-2011, 01:27 PM
Fire Dusty,PLEASE!
Fire Dusty,PLEASE!
???
Reds and Astros are playing this afternoon, Reds are losing again down 2-0 after six innings.
Travis Wood is actually pitching well, but the Reds offense has only managed one hit thus far.
Reds somehow rally in the bottom of the ninth to win 3-2. They had one hit through eight innings, then got a walk and four consecutive hits in the ninth to score three runs without recording a single out.
Funny game, this baseball.
Drewline
05-04-2011, 04:27 PM
This years version of the Reds has some things to figure out (Massett, 2 starters on the DL to name a couple) but one thing is for sure. They always believe they can come back to win and they never quit.
57chevy
05-04-2011, 10:08 PM
There is a lot of time left to get it turned around! The fast start got all of our emotions running. I hope the Indians can keep it up, but I have a feeling the Reds will rise and the Indians will fall
citybuck
05-04-2011, 10:27 PM
What a strange but yet amazing come from behind win for the Reds today...
lmavcch3
05-04-2011, 10:41 PM
Was at the game today. All the hits in the ninth were all hard hit grounders that got through the right side of the infield between 2nd and 1st except Bruce's hit which went right over the 1st place bag. Fun end to anotherwise cold and boring game. Go Reds!!
14Red
05-04-2011, 11:13 PM
Good comeback win by the Reds today. But they've got to start winning games the boring way. You can't win 85-90 games coming from behind in your last at bat. As much as Coco scares me, they rarely get into a save situation. Heisey needs to be in the lineup everyday.
Drewline
05-05-2011, 09:46 AM
How did Cincy come to have back to back afternoon weekday games? I can't remember that happening before?
14Red
05-05-2011, 10:46 AM
Today's game is the makeup game from Monday's rainout. They typically don't play back to back day games.
Reds win 10-4. Homer Bailey with an impressive debut performance, and the offensive came alive. Reds wrap up a 3-3 homestand, although it was certainly looking like it was going to be worse until the end of yesterday's game.
Reds now hit the road for six division games, three in Chicago and three in Houston.
dorciepatrick
05-05-2011, 05:04 PM
Nice way to salvage (sort of) the homestand, but the Reds need to get all of their pieces functioning -- Bailey, Cueto back and pitching well, and Rolen -- before they can grind out a good long stretch of winning baseball.
14Red
05-05-2011, 10:16 PM
Dominant performance by Bailey. The Astros had some bad swings today, meaning Bailey's stuff was nasty.
This is the way to win games, get a lead early and add on late.
Concerned about Chapman, inconsistency.
Heisey needs to be in the lineup somewhere everyday.
Reds and Cubs starting it up in Chicago, Volquez on the hill for the Reds.
No score after one inning. Reds had a fair amount of success at Wrigley last year, hopefully that can continue.
Reds' defense not helping out Volquez. A Janish error in the second let a runner on base who got to second but was stranded. In the third a Renteria error after a leadoff single set the Cubs up with men and first and second and nobody out. Volquez tried to work out of it, but a passed ball by Hernandez lets in a run. 1-0 Cubs after three thanks to some shoddy glovework. Volquez has pitched quite well so far.
Jay Bruce hits a 3-run HR in the top of the fourth to put the Reds up 3-1. He seems to be picking up lately. Going the other way is Johnny Gomes, now hitting .196 even with a double in his first at-bat today.
After three good innings, Volquez is getting himself into trouble in the fourth. Two walks and a single have loaded the bases with nobody out. But he gets out of it giving up only one run thanks to a double play.
3-2 Reds after four innings.
Reds get two more in the fifth after RBI singles by Votto and Phillips.
5-4 Reds in the ninth. Cordero will be on to try to close it out. Cordero starts out with a walk, that's never a good sign. But a double play bails him out of it. And a flyout ends it.
Reds win 5-4 and suddenly have a three-game win streak. Reds only manage seven hits but they turn it into five runs. Volquez started out well but hurt himself with walks. The bullpen did a nice job to hold down the win.
Reds drop game 2. Great outing for Arroyo, but the Reds only score 2 runs on five hits and Cordero blows his first save, giving up 2 in the ninth as the Reds lose 3-2. Rubber game tomorrow.
14Red
05-07-2011, 10:54 PM
Tough loss today. You knew Coco was going to blow one sooner or later. Jonny Cueto tomorrow...
Every closer blows saves now and then, especially with a one-run lead. Cordero has been pitching well this year, as long as yesterday is the exception and not the rule he will be fine.
Johnny Cueto gets his first start today. His rehab starts have not been that impressive, but they say he's ready to go...Ryan Dempster, who has really been struggling this year, will go for the Cubs.
Reds take the series with a 2-0 win.
Cueto looked great in his debut, six innings, five hits, one walk, no runs. The bullpen closed out the shutout, with Cordero pitching a perfect ninth the day after blowing his first save. Reds offense didn't do much but the pitching made it stand up.
Pretty nice to win the series despite scoring only nine runs in three games.
It's only one start each, but Bailey and Cueto were very impressive in their first outings.
Reds move on to Houston. Travis Wood scheduled to make the start for the Reds. Reds are 18-16, 1.5 games behind the Cardinals.
macfan7358
05-08-2011, 06:50 PM
Nice taking 2 of 3 in Chicago...hope to see them carry so momentum into Houston. Reds offense needs to get going...they have been pretty silent over the past few games.
14Red
05-08-2011, 10:28 PM
considering the Reds really struggled scoring runs in Chicago, glad to get 2 wins,and even could have easily swept the series. early returns on Cueto and Bailey look good. Still leery about Coco, the only reason he didn't give up a home run today in the 9th was that the wind was blowing hard in at Wrigley today. Still scares me.
Game 1 in Houston is starting well. Reds lead 3-0 in the third thanks to - of all things - a three-run home run by Travis Wood. Let's hope Wood can keep things going well on the mound too.
Votto is getting a rest tonight but will make a decent pinch hitter if the need arises.
5-0 after four innings now after a 2-run Ramon Hernadez HR.
Hopefully Travis Wood can make this relatively easy from here.
14Red
05-09-2011, 11:08 PM
Another good outing by a starter. Second day in a row a Reds starter leaves the game late w/o giving up a run. Wood looked very good tonight. Good night to get Votto a rest. He's not looked very good the past week or so.
Wood finished with his second straight solid outing. Both against the Astros, but hopefully a positive sign nonetheless.
Reds have now won five of six, and have allowed only 14 runs in the six games. Solid pitching solves a lot of problems.
Homer Bailey will make his second start of the year tomorrow night.
Reds and Astros starting the second game of the series. Reds have scored 4 in the top of the first to start Homer Bailey off with a nice lead.
Reds add two more in the second and are really swinging the bats well. Votto's day off must have helped, he's 2 for 2 with three RBIs. Jay Bruce also has a two-run HR. 6-0 Reds in the bottom of the third.
Still 6-0 after four and a half. Bailey pitching well again, one hit and no walks on 54 pitches through four innings. I'll reserve judgement on him and Wood until I see them pitch to somebody besides the Astros, but certainly good to see them looking decent
7-0 in the bottom of the eighth. Bailey is out of the game after seven shutout innings. All going well for the Reds tonight, but Chapman is in and has walked two and hit a batter without recording an out. The Reds have enough of a lead that this game should not get interesting, but Chapman's control is becoming a problem. He had five walks in his previous two outings and is adding to that tonight.
Now he has walked in a run on 4 pitches. 7-1 Reds. Chapman is going to need to come out.
Masset in and gives up a two-run single, 7-3 Reds with runners at first and second and nobody out. HOPEFULLY this doesn't get interesting.
Reds wind up winning 7-3, their sixth win in seven games, and they move to 4-1 on the road trip. The only negative of the night was Chapman's performance. Realizing that he is struggling, Baker sent him in with a seven-run lead to get some work in a low pressure situation, but Chapman threw it all over the place (14 balls in 19 pitches).
Reds go for the sweep in tomorrow's afternoon finale, Volquez will be throwing against Wandy Rodriguez.
14Red
05-11-2011, 11:47 AM
Starting pitching has been great the past week. Offense is scoring early, these games are much easier to watch.
Looks like the day off was good for Votto.
Reds and Astros are starting the final game of the series. Reds looking for a sweep and a 5-1 road trip.
Volquez on the mound for the Reds. He is tied for the league lead in walks, and has added to it with a walk in the bottom of the first. Volquez always seems to be hard to hit; his biggest problem is that he often beats himself with walks.
Paul Janish is back in the lineup. Not sure why Jay Bruce is hitting seventh and Johnny Gomes is hitting fifth; seems like they should be reversed.
No score after one inning.
Volquez has walked the bases full with one out to start the second inning. This is the kind of stuff that is going to jeopardize his spot in the rotation. And a single scores two runs for the Astros. It's their first hit, but it gives the Astros a two-run lead.
2-0 Astros after two innings. Volquez has given up only one hit, but it has taken him 47 pitches to get through two innings. Only 19 of the 47 pitches have been strikes. Four walks already. You just cannot be a successful pitcher by walking people at this rate. Greg Maddux used to have about four walks per season.
Volquez out after 4 innings. He only gave up three hits, but used up 88 pitches (47 strikes) thanks to five walks. He gave up three runs, all of which reached via a walk (although the guy who walked for the third run was erased by fielder's choice). LeCure on the mound now, Reds trailing 3-1 in the sixth.
Reds tie it with back-to-back home runs in the seventh. Heisey hits a pinch hit homer, followed by Stubbs. Heading to the ninth inning tied at 3. Reds are very fortunate to be in this game after the pitching has issued EIGHT walks (one intentional) in eight innings. Reds have piled up 10 hits, but have only scored three runs in part because the Astros pitchers have not yet walked a batter.
Astros win it in the ninth on a one-out double off of Mike Leake. Fittingly, the winning run had reached base via a walk, the Reds' ninth of the game.
Reds complete a good 4-2 road trip. Both losses were by one run and came in the bottom of the ninth inning.
The Reds have Thursday off and return to Cincinnati for a seven game homestand, all against divisional rivals. Three against the Cardinals, and then two each against the Cubs and Pirates. The Reds have struggled at home, going just 5-9 after their 5-game win streak to start the season. Let's hope they can turn things around.
Reds vs. Cardinals starting tonight. Arroyo vs. Lohse, both of whom are pitching pretty well this year. Reds need to start playing better at home during this seven-game homestand, with every game against divisional opponents.
14Red
05-13-2011, 03:26 PM
This would be a good series for the Reds to keep it going. They are now going to start playing some of the better teams in the National league. Couldn’t think of a better guy to start the series than Bronson. He’s been our most consistent starter. Votto seems to be back on track after a dry spell and a day off. As usual, DO NOT let Pujoles beat us.
Reds and Cardinals underway in Game 1, no score for the Cardinals in the top of the first.
Reds missed a scoring opportunity in the third, but the Cardinals are cashing in in the fourth. After three hitless innings, they start the inning with three straight hits. 1-0, but the Cards have runners at second and third with nobody out. Sac fly and a double gets them home. 3-0 Cardinals. Reds offense needs to put some runs up.
Reds leave the bases loaded in the bottom of the fifth. Renteria has had two at-bats with RISP and 2 outs, but nothing to show for it.
Reds wind up winning a wild one 6-5 in ten innings. Reds rallied from 4-0 and 5-2 deficits, scoring the tying run in the bottom of the ninth on a Phillips single, and the winning run in the 10th on a Votto single.
I have to say, the Cardinals bullpen is a major concern if you are a St. Louis fan. Both Reds wins against St. Louis this year have come thanks to the bullpen blowing a lead. Even with Wainwright out, the Cardinals still have a good rotation. Last night I was just watching Lohse's pitch count. Even though the Reds wasted some opportunities early they were making him work, and once Lohse was out of the game they were able to rally.
Reds and Cardinals set for game 2 of the series this afternoon. Cueto against McClellan, who has pitched well since joining the Cardinals' rotation. It's Cueto's first start against St. Louis since Cleatgate last year. I doubt there will be retaliation but you never know.
It's a little early to the call the NL Central a two-horse race, but the Reds and Cardinals are now three games clear of everybody else.
Lancer '65
05-14-2011, 11:21 AM
A huge win when things were looking pretty dismal propels the Reds past the Cardinals....at least for a day. A very satisfying victory, although not necessarily esthetically pleasing.
macfan7358
05-14-2011, 12:04 PM
It is always a good night when the Cardinals get beat...it is even better when the Reds beat them. Game 2 today...hope Cueto throws the ball well, and the Reds can win game 2.
dorciepatrick
05-14-2011, 12:09 PM
It's a nice win, but there's a LOOOOONG way to go.
I know that's not a brilliant observation, but so far the first 1/4 of the season has pretty much been a tie between the Reds and Cardinals. Neither team has been hitting on all cylinders.
This Reds team is fun to watch.
Reds take the second game today, 7-3. Johnny Cueto looked great with the exception of a 3-run home run in the eighth inning after fielders had made two consecutive errors to put the runners on base.
Travis Wood will have to beat Chris Carpenter tomorrow if the Reds want to sweep the series.
Drewline
05-14-2011, 08:18 PM
As of right now we are doing a heck of a lot better head to head against the Cardinals compared to last year.
Tall order for T. Wood tomorrow (up against Carpenter) but something tells me Wood will pitch well and we'll just have to get some offense going in support.
Starting pitching with Bailey and Cueto back is looking very solid. Should be a fun year. Friday night's game demonstrated once again this Reds team, like last year, never quits and believes they can always come back to win.
14Red
05-14-2011, 10:28 PM
This series isn't going to make or break you at this point in the season, but the Reds are playing really well right now. The big change recently is the starting pitching has been excellent since Bailey and Cueto joined the team. Reds are going to have to do something with Gomes. Heisey and Lewis are much better options at this time.
The Reds are going to finish off the sweep barring a huge collapse. 8-2 Reds lead in the eighth inning. A nice outing by Travis Wood. He gave up back-to-back solo homers in the second inning but that was all. The Reds got to Carpenter, who gave up all eight runs (seven earned).
I may have spoken too soon. Reds take a 9-2 lead going into the ninth inning and give the ball to Chapman for some mop-up work. He records one out while walking four guys, leaving the bases loaded for Masset, who promptly gives up a double and single.
Now we've got a runner on first and still one out, Pujols at the plate. Cordero is on in a save situation. And he hits Pujols. Go-ahead run at the plate. Cordero saves it though.
Wow. 9-7 Reds, a little too many shenanigans in the ninth innings. Chapman is going to need to be looked at. Leake got sent down to Triple A, Chapman might be next.
But a sweep for the Reds.
captain_cavman
05-15-2011, 03:12 PM
Man, there was some smack goin' back and forth from Cordero and someone or the whole Cardinal dugout.
Lancer '65
05-15-2011, 03:27 PM
This was huge today. Sweeping the team we were trailing when the series opened speaks well for the Reds. We always will have some issues here and there. Every team does, but with all the flaws and all the shaky elements, we are in first place and we found a way to fight through adversity and start the new week on top. Say what you will about Coco...I like the guy and today he saved it for us. And yes, he hit Pujols but he was doing it for the team. Perhaps a little more subtlety would have been appropriate.
macfan7358
05-15-2011, 03:30 PM
Much too close for comfort...but the Reds hung on for the win.
If the Cardinals think Cordero threw at Pujols on purpose, they must be crazy. Why would you put him on to bring up Holiday with the winning run?
This may be an interesting summer between the Reds/Cards.
If the Cardinals are going to hang with the Reds, they will need to improve the defense. I think defense is an overlooked part of baseball, and when you give good offensive teams like the Reds extra outs, they will make you pay. It was a double sweet win for the Reds, a sweep over the Cardinals, and a win over Carpenter. What a great Sunday!!
dorciepatrick
05-15-2011, 04:58 PM
Agreed that hitting Pujols was NOT what Cordero was trying to do. After all, he was the tying run. It was an 0-2 pitch. Coco was trying to back him off the plate, and the pitch just got away a little bit.
I disagree with Dusty on Chapman. I think he needs to go to Louisville and work with Ted Power and the coaches there. Keeping him in Cincinnati doesn't help him or the Reds right now.
He'll be fine after some mechanical tweaks and some innings to work things out. Today showed, though, that we can't afford to put wins in danger while Aroldis works his way back. That's what AAA is for.
Agreed that hitting Pujols was NOT what Cordero was trying to do. After all, he was the tying run. It was an 0-2 pitch. Coco was trying to back him off the plate, and the pitch just got away a little bit.
I disagree with Dusty on Chapman. I think he needs to go to Louisville and work with Ted Power and the coaches there. Keeping him in Cincinnati doesn't help him or the Reds right now.
He'll be fine after some mechanical tweaks and some innings to work things out. Today showed, though, that we can't afford to put wins in danger while Aroldis works his way back. That's what AAA is for.
What did Dusty say? I wouldn't be surprised if Dusty wanted him back in Louisville for a bit, although I don't know if a control issue is any more likely to be solved there as opposed to with the big team. But I doubt Dusty would commit to anything right after the game.
Two each against the Cubs and Pirates coming up, hopefully the Reds can keep the momentum going.
citybuck
05-15-2011, 07:33 PM
I agree, I would send Chapman down to AAA to work on his control problems..
salto
05-15-2011, 08:20 PM
Nice sweep...Cardinals fan, but can admit when my team gets smoked. I predicted the Cardinals wouldn't finish better than 4th in the division. Only the horrendous play by the Cubs and Brewers have kept that from being a reality as of yet. Cincy will win this division hands down. My Cardinals are terribly defensively and it will catch up to them by mid-season. The big bats will only carry them so far. Good Luck the rest of the way. I'll cheer for the Reds once my Cardinals are eliminated.
14Red
05-15-2011, 11:18 PM
Great weekend for the Reds. Not sure what that was at the end. Marty said Molina was the one mouthing off in the Cards dugout, he was the one who was mouthy last summer so it didn't surprise me. No one, other than Coco, seemed concerned.
Wood got his stuff together after a rough start and kept us in the game. Got to be one of the better days we've had off of Carpenter. Chapman has to go to Louisville and pitch to work his way through this.
dorciepatrick
05-16-2011, 03:39 AM
What did Dusty say? I wouldn't be surprised if Dusty wanted him back in Louisville for a bit, although I don't know if a control issue is any more likely to be solved there as opposed to with the big team. But I doubt Dusty would commit to anything right after the game.
Two each against the Cubs and Pirates coming up, hopefully the Reds can keep the momentum going.
Dusty was quoted earlier in the week (don't know what day it was) that he didn't think that Chapman needed to go to the minors to solve his control issues.
I didn't hear if he addressed it after Sunday's game or not.
Lancer '65
05-16-2011, 03:57 AM
I agree with everyone who has said that Chapman needs to go down and work through this control issue. He appears to have a good arm, but his GPS needs to be fixed. He needs more innings and more individual attention. When he's ready, he can be a big help.
Lancer '65
05-16-2011, 04:33 AM
Kudos to salto for being a true sports fan. A friend of mine (since deceased) and myself spent a weekend in St. Louis a number of years ago down along LaClede's Landing, and we had a great time talking with some Cardinal fans about their team and about the Reds, Indians etc. plus we enjoyed several nice libations. It marked my first experience with Anchor Steam and the whole evening was delightfully civil and enjoyable. Hats off to true fans of the game itself!
Kudos to salto for being a true sports fan. A friend of mine (since deceased) and myself spent a weekend in St. Louis a number of years ago down along LaClede's Landing, and we had a great time talking with some Cardinal fans about their team and about the Reds, Indians etc. plus we enjoyed several nice libations. It marked my first experience with Anchor Steam and the whole evening was delightfully civil and enjoyable. Hats off to true fans of the game itself!
They have Anchor Steam in St. Louis? That's a San Francisco brew, didn't know it made its way that far east. It is tasty.
Cubs at the Reds tonight at 7 PM. Could be a good pitching matchup. Homer Bailey has looked great in his first two starts, although they were both against the Astros. Carlos Zambrano goes for the Cubs. He seems to pitch the Reds pretty tough, especially in Cincinnati.
Seems like the season just started, but we are at the quarter pole with 40 games played. Reds are 23-17, 1.5 games in first place. They squandered some chances to build momentum in April and early May against some lighter opponents, although they have won 9 of their last 11. Reds went 5-0 in their first 5 games, 9-2 in their last 11, and 9-15 in between. Having Bailey and Cueto back seems to have reenergized the pitching staff. The bullpen has been decent although it always seems one of the setup guys is struggling...first Masset, now Chapman. Bray and Ondrusek have been solid, and Cordero has looked very good. The long relief seems to be in decent shape too.
Offensively things are looking good, although I would like to see Drew Stubbs find a way to get on base more and cut down on strikeouts. I feel like the Reds are still looking for a good #2 hitter. Votto and Phillips have both been outstanding, both should be headed to the All-Star game. Guys like Hernandez, Cairo, Heisey, and Hanigan have found ways to contribute. The main questions offensively right now seem to be around Jay Bruce and Johnny Gomes. Bruce struggled early but seems to be hitting much better over the past several weeks. Hopefully that can continue. Johnny Gomes has been the biggest disappointment, hitting just .186. He has almost twice as many strikeouts as hits (37-21). He doesn't need to be an All-Star. If he could start hitting around .260 like he's done for the past two years, he would be able to protect Votto and Phillips. But right now he's just not getting it done.
Rolen's health is another question mark. He hasn't put up monster numbers, but the Reds seem to play much better when he is in the lineup.
The Reds are going to have a tough stretch of opponents. After the 4 games against the Cubs and Pirates, they will head to Cleveland for three games against the surprising Indians. Then it's on to Philadelphia for four games, and then three in Atlanta. That's 10 road games against teams whose current record is a combined 72-46.
14Red
05-16-2011, 12:11 PM
The Reds are positioned perfectly right now. Rolen should be in the lineup 3 / 4 games per week, that’s it. It will keep him sharp, and keep him healthy. Cairo can play 2 / 3 games per week, he does a great job in that role.
Bullpen should be fine. Should not have even needed Massett and Coco yesterday. Need to get Chapman some work in Triple A. Brey’s your lefty set up so Chapman doesn’t really have a role now anyway. Stubbs is ok, yes I’d like to see a few less strikeouts, but he’s been productive. Gomes is done, he’s the 6th outfielder at this point, Heisey and Lewis are so much better. He looks like Reggie Sanders up there when breaking balls are thrown to him.
dorciepatrick
05-16-2011, 04:07 PM
Well, the Chapman mystery may be over. The Reds put him on the DL as an examination discovered he has inflammation in his shoulder.
Maybe I should say this differently, but -- under the circumstances -- this gives me a sense of relief in that his wildness and lower velocity might just have been a physical problem.
Hopefully he'll recover just fine, then get some rehab innings at Louisville to regain his early-season form.
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