The last six games have been very successful for the Reds. They won 4 of 6 and three in a row, but the same script we've followed for several years is happening again. The bullpen is failing us.

In the six game run, Reds starters have done rather well:

IP - 37.2
H - 38
ER - 17
BB - 15
SO -30
HR - 5
ERA-4.06

Take out horrible starts by Belisle and Cueto (9.2 innings of 15 hits and 11 earned runs), and it's exemplary. The bullpen is another story:

IP - 15.1
H - 20
ER - 16
BB - 8
SO - 17
HR - 4
ERA-9.41

Of the six relievers who have pitched in this span, only Affeldt has pitched well in three appearances. Bray, Codero, Burton, and Weathers have been pitching batting practice. Lincoln has been simply horrible (3 IP allowing 6 hits and 8 runs).

Wayne Krivsky tried everything and it didn't work. It's still not working. Bray and Burton are not ready for prime time, Weathers is over the hill, and Lincoln should get a one way ticket to DFA land. Cordero will be OK if used correctly.

How long has the bullpen been our downfall? I've lost count of the years.