Reds-Phils series 8/20

[Kc61]

Here's a preview of the next series in the pennant race.

Reds play in Philadelphia four games. Leake-Halladay, Bailey-Lee, Arroyo-Worley, Cueto-Hamels. All night games. Reds and Phils haven't played this season as yet, have seven games from here on out. Thursday game could be big pitching duel with Cueto and Hamels both below 3.00 ERA.

Phils are nine games below .500, seven below at home. They are 6-4 over their last ten games. Phils with a .709 team OPS, eleventh in NL. Phils with 4.03 team ERA, tenth in NL. Post ASB, Phils hitting is even worse, .685 team OPS, but pitching is much improved, 3.51. Obviously, Pence and Victorino have been moved.

Pirates at SD. Pirates starter tonight unknown, followed by Burnett and McDonald. SD with Volquez, Marquis, and unknown. Pirates are off Thursday, then go home to face Mike Fiers and Brewers. Padres are not bad at home, 28-32. Padres are 4-6 over last ten games.

Cards off tonight and then face Astros at St. Louis. Astros road record is 12-48. Astros have won 3 of last 10. Harrell v. Wainright Tuesday. Harrell 10-8 with 3.81 should win Cy Young award playing with Astros. Then Norris v. Lohse. Then lefty Dallas Keuchel v. Westbrook.