I am fortunate have insight from a first hand perspective of the game of baseball. My experience doesn't make me "correct", and the typical fan a moron, but I would like it to be noted, I have high level experience in the game of baseball. So when I watch games, I see things often many fans overlook, and I typically view the game in a different way.
I often times wonder about in game managing from Dusty, however I also understand the absolute importance of having a manager, "guys like to play for". The manager always gets too much credit when things are going to well, and far too much heat when things are going south. Players win... Managers lose.
I am NOT suggesting Dusty is an idiot with his lineups, managing style, or anything else... but I would like to give some insight on things I have picked up on after watching more Reds baseball this year, than ever.
IF we are not going to bunt, steal, hit & run... then we should adapt our lineup accordingly. We have one of the best hitters in baseball consistently coming up to the plate with no one on base.
Votto is taking a lot of heat for his lack of run producing production, but give me a damn break people.... the guy is hitting 40 points higher than anyone else on the team. He doesn't need to hit 40 HR's a year or drive in 100 RBI, which is very misleading.. to "earn" his money. If he continues to hit .325, 25 HR and get on base at a .435 clip.... I will gladly take it the next 10 years.
So, if we are just going to play station to station on the base paths, then why not hit Votto 2nd?
Choo
Votto
Phillips
Bruce
Ludwick
Frazier
Cozart
Hanigan/Meso
I want some others opinions... this wouldn't fix all the issues, however I do think it could produce more scoring chances, and bigger innings.
Lastly... Chapman is fine, the bullpen is fabulous, I wouldn't trade our 1-5 starters for anyone's. Be thankful... just for a damn second, that Walt, Bob, and all else involved are putting a team worth watching on the field at GABP.