Reds Mailbag (2/7)

02/07/2006 12:15 AM ET
Mailbag: Will the Reds lock up Dunn?
Reporter Mark Sheldon answers Reds fans' questions
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com

Do the Reds plan to sign Adam Dunn to a long-term contract, or are they just looking to sign him to a one-year deal? -- Duane D., Chillicothe, Ohio

According to interim general manager Brad Kullman, the Reds are intensifying their efforts to sign Dunn to a contract, either the multi-year or single-year variety. A Feb. 17 arbitration hearing date looms closer and closer, and deadlines have a way of making things move forward quicker. My guess is they will try to go the multi-year route if they can, but focus in on the one-year deal if that's the only way to avoid going to a hearing -- which is something both players and clubs usually dread going through.

Do you think the new owners will try to bring Pete Rose back into baseball, and back to the Reds? - Marty B. Miami, Fla.

When a panel was asked a similar question during the recent Reds Winter Caravan stop in Dayton, senior director of business operations Phil Castellini essentially said if the club had its way, Rose would be welcomed back to the Reds in some manner. However, Castellini reminded the inquiring fan that the team must adhere to Major League Baseball's position that Rose is on the lifetime ineligible list and banned from the game for betting on baseball.

In other words, don't hold your breath that Rose will have anything to do with the Reds anytime soon.

Where and how does manager Jerry Narron fit in with the new owners?
-- Rob R., Mendon, Ohio

Narron fits in with the new owners just as he did before, under the previous majority ownership and general manager. He is signed to manage the Reds through 2006. Chief executive officer Bob Castellini endorsed Narron when he assumed control of the club. As it often does, whether or not that term is extended will likely depend on the Reds' performance on the field and the win-loss column in the National League Central division standings.

How is Paul Wilson doing with his rehab? Is he projected as the fifth starter, or do you see him higher than that in the rotation? -- Rob L., Bellefontaine, Ohio

After seeing Wilson last week at Great American Ballpark, it appeared his throwing program was going very well. He's still throwing between 50-75 percent, but if there are no setbacks, he should be ready to open the season with the Reds. There's a good chance he will be the fifth starter, because he wouldn't be needed immediately. Most teams leave the gate using just a four-man rotation for a few weeks, because there are so many off-days in the April schedule.

Outfielder Rob Stratton tore up Spring Training, started off great, then got injured last year. What is his status? -- Brandon T., Tipp City, Ohio

Stratton was signed to a Minor League contract this offseason but was not invited to big league camp as a non-roster player. He was invited, with several others, to come early to Sarasota and attend a special Minor League mini-camp. The Reds might need extra players for exhibition games with several members of the roster likely taking part in the World Baseball Classic.

When do Opening Day tickets go on sale? -- Jim H., Englewood, Ohio

The Reds announced last week that Opening Day tickets go on sale Feb. 18. Of course, you can get them right here on reds.com among several other ways.

http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/NASAp...=.jsp&c_id=cin

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