9/27/2013 Reds vs Pirates

[cumberlandreds]

Well this is different.......


1. Shin-Soo Choo (L) CF
2. Ryan Ludwick (R) LF
3. Joey Votto (L) 1B
4. Brandon Phillips (R) 2B
5. Jay Bruce (L) RF
6. Todd Frazier (R) 3B
7. Zack Cozart (R) SS
8. Ryan Hanigan (R) C
9. Homer Bailey (R) P

[Matt700wlw]

Um....

[mbgrayson]

Ludwick in the two hole, interesting.

He has a .308 OBP this year, .333 for his career.

[redsfan30]

I have a feeling we will see a revised lineup within the coming hours. My guess is this is a mistake.

However, if it is not a mistake, I do not hate it. I'm in favor of trying new things to jump start the offense.

[PepperJack]

Ludwick sample size isn't too large, but he did bat 2nd in front of Pujols about 1/3 of the time, and put up great numbers.

Maybe Dusty thinks that would work in front of Votto too?

Some concern could be if Phillips can't heat back up, big innings could be few and far between.

Hanigan likely starts all three games this weekend as long as Cueto pitches Sunday. Not likely to get any extra offense there.

So a little surprised by the Ludwick/Phillips flip, but hopeful that it works out. The Reds really need at least 2 of 3 this weekend.

[KittyDuran]

Gotta split up the lefties at the top of the order? ;)

[AmarilloRed]

I wonder if Brandon was vocal about being moved back to cleanup.

[Kc61]

Ah, the number two hole. The panacea for all ills.

Looks like an effort to get Ryan good pitches, so maybe the Reds will hit for some power.

[Red Raindog]

Well this is different.......


1. Shin-Soo Choo (L) CF
2. Ryan Ludwick (R) LF
3. Joey Votto (L) 1B
4. Brandon Phillips (R) 2B
5. Jay Bruce (L) RF
6. Todd Frazier (R) 3B
7. Zack Cozart (R) SS
8. Ryan Hanigan (R) C
9. Homer Bailey (R) P

is it April 1st?

[Red Raindog]

Ludwick in the two hole, interesting.

He has a .308 OBP this year, .333 for his career.

deja vu

[traderumor]

Has C. Trent opined on the lineup yet? :p

[Stray]

Looks like a winner to me

[mace]

My longshot guess is that it means Hamilton will be on the postseason roster. That way, Phillips can stay in the four hole and Choo and the alternating outfielder can occupy 1-2.

[REDREAD]

Guys, we have our secret weapon Heather in the stands, she's something like 12-1. Any lineup is going to win tonight :)

[RedTeamGo!]

Phillips has been bad for quite some time now...clean up hitter!

[HeatherC1212]

Guys, we have our secret weapon Heather in the stands, she's something like 12-1. Any lineup is going to win tonight :)

I'm a little nervous now about this crazy record because I'm scared it's going to break, but I'm actually 15-1 this year. You can feel free to blame me if something bad happens tonight...I can take it, LOL ;) :beerme: :p

GO REDS. :D

[New York Red]

Last series of the year, most important series of the year, etc ... great time for a complete lineup overhaul.

:confused:

[Brutus]

Last series of the year, most important series of the year, etc ... great time for a complete lineup overhaul.

:confused:

It's hardly a lineup overhaul. All he really did is switched Phillips and Ludwick.

Secondly, this series isn't terribly meaningful. It means home field advantage for one single game. Beyond that, it's meaningless.

[Falcon7]

Phillips has been bad for quite some time now...clean up hitter!

He has always hit best hitting 4th.

[CySeymour]

He has always hit best hitting 4th.

But that doesn't mean he is good there.

[NebraskaRed]

I wonder if Brandon was vocal about being moved back to cleanup.

I don't know, Brandon is a pretty quiet and unassuming guy.

[Kc61]

It's hardly a lineup overhaul. All he really did is switched Phillips and Ludwick.

Secondly, this series isn't terribly meaningful. It means home field advantage for one single game. Beyond that, it's meaningless.

Pretty important game though, Tuesday. Would like home field. Not a guarantee but should give Reds an edge.

Worked out funny with Reds playing Bucs three, then again in playoff game.

Let's go, Reds, take the first one.

[kheidg-]

Secondly, this series isn't terribly meaningful. It means home field advantage for one single game. Beyond that, it's meaningless.

The most important game of the year, that is.

[bubbachunk]

Against a lefty I love this lineup, against a righty not so much

[Mutaman]

Welcome to the Bud Selig Memorial Series.

[PuffyPig]

It's probably nothing more than the fact that Ludwick has hit Burnett well in a small sample size. Phillips has been Ok it's Bruce that really scuffles against him.

[MillerTime58]

What is so hard about letting Bruce hit 4th? It's like Dusty will do it every once in a while, but he obviously doesn't like it.

[1940757690]

Guys, we have our secret weapon Heather in the stands, she's something like 12-1. Any lineup is going to win tonight :)


I'm a little nervous now about this crazy record because I'm scared it's going to break, but I'm actually 15-1 this year. You can feel free to blame me if something bad happens tonight...I can take it, LOL ;) :beerme: :p

GO REDS. :D

Go Heather!


I don't know, Brandon is a pretty quiet and unassuming guy.

Smiles a lot, too. That's a great thing.

27 posts and we're still an hour away from first pitch. Very cool. And, while I'm not superstitious, would all seem to qualify as good-omen stuff.

I gotta feelling we're gonna win tonight.

p.s., I'm also fine with trying new things and the slightly revised lineup. My only ask would be to play Mes more but know Dusty's not going to do that. I keep remembering that amazing AB he had in PIT last weekend. The kid's hungry and he's strong. He should be playing more imho.

[1940757690]

Kind of interesting--at least to me--that tonight's pitching matchup strikes me as the one that might be best for Tuesday also. For both teams. Know it'll be Liriano/Latos but just noticing that. Burnett totally had our number last Saturday. And I was in the minority that voted Homer over Latos for the Tuesday start on that thread simply because I like him a bit better when the stakes are very high. That said, maybe Tuesday will be a good chance for Mat to (re)establish his big-game bona fides.

[powersackers]

Having Ludwick 2nd means that if he gets on base in his final AB Hamilton will be on for Votto, and maybe Phillips and Bruce.

[texasdave]

I am all swagged up and ready to go. Maybe the Reds could wear this cap tonight.

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR_tPXlz3QufurK2cE_ta_8Al8gXMCAg doMvQG2jYLvbIdclVlz

[Gallen5862]

The Reds game will be shown for free the last three nights of the season om mlbtv.com

[PuffyPig]

What is so hard about letting Bruce hit 4th? It's like Dusty will do it every once in a while, but he obviously doesn't like it.

Bruce has had 26 PA vs. Burnett and has a .345 OPS against him.

That's likely more than just small sample size randomness.

It's more than just Baker who doesn't want him hitting 4th.

[Falcon7]

I predict Votto ties or beats his season rbi total for a single series! It's 4, I believe.

[vaticanplum]

This late-season stressful game is bringing out Brantley's ultimate folksiness.

[powersackers]

53 more to go!

[NebraskaRed]

Viva Los Rojos!

[KittyDuran]

My POV (including the back of Heather's head)!http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/28/yjydynyp.jpg

[Red Raindog]

Last series of the year, most important series of the year, etc ... great time for a complete lineup overhaul.

:confused:

yup -- I thought Dusty has said players need to be comfortable in their roles --- let's hope it works

[Red Raindog]

My POV (including the back of Heather's head)!http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/28/yjydynyp.jpg

quite the back of a head!

:thumbup:

[Red Raindog]

2 weak grounders to start -- might take a few minutes for the changes to kick in

:)

[NebraskaRed]

Votto ties Rose's record for on base in a single season.

Having quite the "subpar" year.

[757690]

I am all swagged up and ready to go. Maybe the Reds could wear this cap tonight.

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR_tPXlz3QufurK2cE_ta_8Al8gXMCAg doMvQG2jYLvbIdclVlz

I believe that if you are wearing a hat that says swag, then you have zero swag.

[Red Raindog]

Votto ties Rose's record for on base in a single season.

Having quite the "subpar" year.

I hear you and maybe my expectations were too high but I will admit I expected better defense from him and a little more power output.

[NebraskaRed]

I hear you and maybe my expectations were too high but I will admit I expected better defense from him and a little more power output.

Can't argue about the defense. That amount of errors is unacceptable. The power thing? In a perfect world Votto would be perfect. Looks like we'll just have to settle for him being one of the best (if not the best) hitter in the NL.

[Red in Chicago]

Can't argue about the defense. That amount of errors is unacceptable. The power thing? In a perfect world Votto would be perfect. Looks like we'll just have to settle for him being one of the best (if not the best) hitter in the NL.

Doubles are what I was expected more of this year.

[Red Raindog]

Homer is making me nervous after he got squeezed a couple times

[Stray]

We've been swinging and missing at that pitch for a while now

[Falcon7]

We've been swinging and missing at that pitch for a while now

Again and again...

[Always Red]

Hunter Pence has swag.

I laugh every time I think about that.

He'll, I might have swag too, for all I know. ;)

[Larry Schuler]

What would happen if the Reds took those breaking pitches?

[50YrRedsFan]

Reds at 15 consecutive scoreless innings.

[tomnuetten]

and another (unintentional) hbp against the pirates...

[Stray]

and another (unintentional) hbp against the pirates...

Maybe the Pirates will freak out and give us some free base runners.

[Red Raindog]

Homer still has me nervous --- time to get a drink

[50YrRedsFan]

Bailey having control trouble.

[Red Raindog]

good point talking heads - how is that thing on Marte's hand legal?

[Always Red]

Homer still has me nervous --- time to get a drink

I beat you to it, it's been a tough week at work.

Homer can't get the breaking ball over for a strike tonight. Hanny's throwing himself all over the place trying to knock'em down

[Falcon7]

Homer still has me nervous --- time to get a drink

Yea, and a valium...

[Stray]

not good

[Falcon7]

Big trouble now...

[Red Raindog]

I need the whole bottle in front of me or frontal lobotomy

[tomnuetten]

bases loaded 1 out


and a base hit :(

2-0 bad guys

[Red in Chicago]

ugly

[Gizmo]

one good pitch here and we're out of this mess.

[Norm Chortleton]

I'm not sure Bailey will survive this inning.

[Red Raindog]

big time bad inning Homer

[Falcon7]

Old Homer showing up tonight.

[Gizmo]

and apparently my stream is behind.

[Norm Chortleton]

Or maybe he will. Nice recovery.

[Red in Chicago]

well, it could have been much worse

[Red Raindog]

DP helps -- Homer better find it fast though because this Reds offense has not shown much so far

[RedsFanatic]

Tough inning. Two walks, a hit batter and a ground ball equals two runs...

[Falls City Beer]

The Dusty haters are almost certain to get their wish this offseason.

[Gizmo]

Offense has 3 practice days to figure out how to score 7 runs a game beginning next week.

[Kc61]

Reds have scored five runs in 30 innings on this homestand. That's a run every six innings, 1.5 per game.

They might want to increase that number, say, right now.

[Billy_Bearcat]

Reds have scored five runs in 30 innings on this homestand. That's a run every six innings, 1.5 per game.

They might want to increase that number, say, right now.

Must be the fans lack of enthusiasm.

[[deleted]]

So. Who's confident in this team scoring 2 runs off Burnett?

This might be a long night.

[vaticanplum]

;2979298']So. Who's confident in this team scoring 2 runs off Burnett?

This might be a long night.

Let's HOPE this evening gets longer.

[Falls City Beer]

;2979298']So. Who's confident in this team scoring 2 runs off Burnett?

This might be a long night.

I think they will. I don't have a lot of faith in Bailey right ow though.

[Gizmo]

;2979298']So. Who's confident in this team scoring 2 runs off Burnett?

This might be a long night.

sure, it would be nice, but other than the ability to host a game Tuesday, I really don't care about these games. I've been saying it all week, the only game I care about now is on Tuesday night. If getting shut out all weekend means we score 15 Tuesday, I'll take that outcome vs. sweeping now only to get shut out on Tuesday.

[PuffyPig]

While Byrd's hit could just as easily have been a DP, Bailey has no one to blame other than himself with his poor control.

[Red in Chicago]

nice catch to rob joey of a hit

[OldXOhio]

Is the crowd booing Ludwick?

[Redsfansince72]

Just think If Walt would have Claimed Byrd..Like he should have.. Maybe this team is just a bit better..

[RedsBrick]

Must be the fans lack of enthusiasm.

Yeah. Me thinks Reds players should worry more about run production and less about the folks in the stands.

[Redsfansince72]

Is the crowd booing Ludwick?

Sounded like it to me..

[vaticanplum]

Goodness, Reds fans are a delicate breed.

[Roy Tucker]

Crowd booed a little.

Homer visibly struggled first 2 innings

[malcontent]

Just think If Walt would have Claimed Byrd..Like he should have.. Maybe this team is just a bit better..
I agree 100% with that.

And the Pirates wouldn't be as good/dangerous. Walt likes his teams too much, IMO. We'll soon know whether it was fatal.

[50YrRedsFan]

..... Bailey has no one to blame other than himself with his poor control.

I've said it all year...The Reds lack of offense puts so much more pressure on the pitchers to be near perfect. Some pitchers step up, most don't.

[RedsBrick]

The Todd

[ThatPitchIsDunn]

There's one.

[Falls City Beer]

I feel comfortable saying that Reds fans' expectations should be a good bit lower next season, so whatever success they achieve should be met with a bit more enthusiasm or a less frustration. Or whatever.

[Falls City Beer]

Frazier's been a semi bright spot offensively the last couple of weeks.

[RedlegJake]

I feel comfortable saying that Reds fans' expectations should be a good bit lower next season, so whatever success they achieve should be met with a bit more enthusiasm or a less frustration. Or whatever.

Depends on the winter but at this moment my expectation is not that high...I AM expecting Walt to fix that

[50YrRedsFan]

Frazier's been a semi bright spot offensively the last couple of weeks.

Who would have thought he would have as many RBI's as Joey Votto at this time of the year?

[Roy Tucker]

HR energized the crowd.

[ThatPitchIsDunn]

Pretty important inning coming up. Homer needs a sharp top and the offense needs to bust up AJ a bit.

[Stray]

When Cozart gets on in those situations with 2 outs, bottom of the order up, I dunno why we don't run him. I know he has decent speed. If he gets thrown out so what, if they walk Hanigan and clear the pitchers spot good deal. At least try to put him in a situation where a single scores him.

[jojo]

I feel comfortable saying that Reds fans' expectations should be a good bit lower next season, so whatever success they achieve should be met with a bit more enthusiasm or a less frustration. Or whatever.

I'm willing to let the off season take shape before making such declarative declarations of doom.

[RedlegJake]

Who would have thought he would have as many RBI's as Joey Votto at this time of the year?

with as much as Joey/BP/Btuce have been on in front of him he should have a heckuva lot more rbi's - that sword cuts more than one way

[jojo]

Last inning kind of summed up Phillips' bat.... perhaps good at driving in runs but not very good at creating them. Tie game if he gets the job done and is standing on first.

[vaticanplum]

Homer looks better.

Marty is talking about his flu shot. Oh my god. Oh my god.

[Always Red]

HR energized the crowd.

Todd has swag.

Swag brings energy.

[reds44]

Who would have thought he would have as many RBI's as Joey Votto at this time of the year?
Imagine if we knew he would have the same as Votto before the year started. You would think we would have won 100+ games

[Always Red]

I remember not quite a month ago, when the Pirates picked up Byrd and Morneau and many folks here laughed.

They are a better team with those guys. Both have made big plays tonight, Byrd at the dish and Morneau in the field.

[OC_Red]

Had a nutty work day...Homer hit TWO Pirates? And of course one of em scores. >:(

Looks like he's thrown a good many pitches so far, is Burnett up there too I hope?

EDIT: nvm, wow...56 pitches...cmon now, Reds.

[Playadlc]

I remember not quite a month ago, when the Pirates picked up Byrd and Morneau and many folks here laughed.

They are a better team with those guys. Both have made big plays tonight, Byrd at the dish and Morneau in the field.

I don't remember anyone here laughing.

[OC_Red]

I remember not quite a month ago, when the Pirates picked up Byrd and Morneau and many folks here laughed.

They are a better team with those guys. Both have made big plays tonight, Byrd at the dish and Morneau in the field.

I remember being none too happy that Walt let Byrd past him in waivers actually...

[50YrRedsFan]

This game only in the mid 5th, and already edging up on 2 hours old.

[50YrRedsFan]

Bailey at 88 pitches thru 5. Burnett at 58 thru 4.

[Always Red]

I don't remember anyone here laughing.

I do, and tomorrow I'll go look it up and show you. Too tired to do so right now.

[Falls City Beer]

I'm willing to let the off season take shape before making such declarative declarations of doom.

It's not a doom declaration. It's that expectations were sky high this season. Pretty banal observation, but I think true. I can't imagine there will be a Choo like acquisition in the offseason. Though a Dusty firing will likely inject more enthusiasm than warranted.

[50YrRedsFan]

Reds with 5 hits....need more than 1 run.

[OC_Red]

Dusty is trolling with Ludwick in the 2 hole I guess? Wow. DP to end the inning.

[Stray]

If the 2 hole is gonna be terrible regardless, lets just bat the pitcher there. Problem solved. :D

[Falcon7]

Fans mess up again causing Ryan to hit into a DP.

[50YrRedsFan]

Definitely heard boos on Ludwick's DP.

[Matt700wlw]

The boo birds are out after Ludwick hits into a double play

[RedlegJake]

Ludwick is struggling really really badly. At the very worst time. Well 4 days short of the worse possible time...

[Redsfansince72]

GRRRR Rather see ROBINSON in LF batting 2nd than MR OUT Ludwick.. He better not blame the Reds fans for his awful hitting

[Stray]

I don't know if it's funny or embarrassing that we're booing Ludwick. Probably both.

[jojo]

It's not a doom declaration. It's that expectations were sky high this season. Pretty banal observation, but I think true. I can't imagine there will be a Choo like acquisition in the offseason. Though a Dusty firing will likely inject more enthusiasm than warranted.

You probably couldn't imagine Choo as a Reds this time last season. Or Latos as a Red before Walt's trade....

[Falls City Beer]

I don't think Morneau or Byrd have been all that great.

[Kc61]

The Reds have a few players who seem worn down. Hopefully they will get going.

[RedlegJake]

It's not fair but he's the scapegoat for the lack of hitting apparently...the fans wanna get on someone.

[CrackerJack]

Hitting into DP's, not a good way to get the fans fired-up.

[Falls City Beer]

You probably couldn't imagine Choo as a Reds this time last season. Or Latos as a Red before Walt's trade....

Maybe not, but the Reds with each passing offseason have pushed up against their payroll limitation (cf. deadline inactivity).

[RedlegJake]

Lets face it - this offense has earned itself a few boos this homestand. It's just too bad they can't boo them collectively - the whole darn lineup

[SirFelixCat]

Whew, barely not a HR

[foxfire123]

I don't know if it's funny or embarrassing that we're booing Ludwick. Probably both.

Hey, he wanted the fans to get into it. He has to take the good with the bad.....

[Stray]

About 2 inches to the right and that's gone.

[Falcon7]

Drop down and give me 2...

[jojo]

Whew, barely not a HR

I always thought that if the ball hit the yellow line it should count as two HRs... think about it.... how hard is it to hit that yellow line?

[SirFelixCat]

Welp, that one sure got out in a hurry.

[50YrRedsFan]

I don't think Morneau or Byrd have been all that great.

Hard to say, but Byrd has more RBI's tonight than the Reds team. And now has 2 hits.

[Falcon7]

Way Gone!

[Stray]

Hey, he wanted the fans to get into it. He has to take the good with the bad.....

Terrible how a player would want a loud stadium to give the team a boost in their biggest series of the year. Boos are well deserved eh.

[Red Raindog]

yikes -- this looks like a beat down now -- guess there is time

[SirFelixCat]

Anything that travels that far should have a stewardess on it...


And all that's left (of our hopes for a home WC game) is a vapor trail...


anyone have anything else to add?

[malcontent]

Could see that coming a mile away.

[jojo]

Way Gone!

Its almost like Leake is pitching this inning.

[Stray]

If we gotta play in Pittsburgh then they may as well sweep us. Nobody can beat us four games in a row, can they?

[Billy_Bearcat]

Well at least our boys can appreciate a rowdy crowd in Pittsburgh for the WC.

[malcontent]

Reds + Byrd > Pirates - Byrd

Seriously, what cruise was Jocketty on when that trade went down?

Ludwick returning to 2012 form after the shoulder surgery was never a certainty.

[Red Raindog]

Anything that travels that far should have a stewardess on it...


And all that's left (of our hopes for a home WC game) is a vapor trail...


anyone have anything else to add?

might have to reseed that spot of grass after the fire is out

[Falls City Beer]

I actually think some chastened expectations should be good for ol Redszone. Folks have been pretty surly with WS dreams.

[Falls City Beer]

Its almost like Leake is pitching this inning.

Shame it's the "ace.".

[jojo]

I actually think some chastened expectations should be good for ol Redszone. Folks have been pretty surly with WS dreams.

Well, you're certainly just the guy for that job.

[Falcon7]

Some guys rise the to the occasion, some don't.

[dabvu2498]

Its almost like Leake is pitching this inning.

Sadly, Bailey has allowed just one fewer HR this year than Leake.

[1940757690]

yikes -- this looks like a beat down now -- guess there is time

Uh....er....gotta think positive...but...but...hard....no dang offense....again...

- Our 11-3 beatdown last weekend in their house was way more impressive than this mere 3-run gap.
- Homer's good. We all know he's very, very good.
- This game doesn't matter. This game doesn't matter. This game doesn't matter.
- it's all about Tuesday. It's all about Tuesday. It's all about Tuesday.


A
And all that's left (of our hopes for a home WC game) is a vapor trail...


anyone have anything else to add?

I do. Anyone game to drive down to Pittsburgh next Tuesday? Cause if I drive their all the way from DC again (which is looking likely), I really don't want to be the only Reds fans in three contiguous sections again.

[jojo]

Sadly, Bailey has allowed just one fewer HR this year than Leake.

Homer is unhittable when he keeps the ball down.

[Falls City Beer]

Well, you're certainly just the guy for that job.

Yes, and I'm so often wrong. :beerme:

[50YrRedsFan]

Bailey not very good tonight, but the offense is terrible. 6 runs scored the entire homestand. Disgusting.

[1940757690]

Homer is unhittable when he keeps the ball down.

Yup. That looking K of Barmes was case-in-point.

[RedsBrick]

GRRRR Rather see ROBINSON in LF batting 2nd than MR OUT Ludwick.. He better not blame the Reds fans for his awful hitting

I'm saying this without knowing anything about the arm strength of either, but I really see no reason for Robinson on this roster with Hamilton here. I could be dead wrong...

[jojo]

Yes, and I'm so often wrong. :beerme:

Well predicting failure in baseball is about like predicting the sun will rise. It's the high percentage bet.

[RedsBrick]

Some guys rise the to the occasion, some don't.

Unfortunately, for the guys in Red, very few are rising to the occasion.

[Falls City Beer]

Pittsburghs offense is pretty lame. Bailey's pitching poorly. Reds offense is a GAB runs-scored average offense masked as an upper tier offense.

[SirFelixCat]

Bailey not very good tonight, but the offense is terrible. 6 runs scored the entire homestand. Disgusting.


No arguments here.

It's like the 2010 playoffs again, but instead of facing Halladay, Lee, and Hamels, it's the Mets and Pirates.

:(

[Falls City Beer]

Well predicting failure in baseball is about like predicting the sun will rise. It's the high percentage bet.

Eh, I can pick the winners too though. It's not hard.

[Redsfansince72]

This Offense is Running out of games to get going.. its ridiculous

[Redsfansince72]

I don't think Morneau or Byrd have been all that great.

Are you serious?? Byrd would make our offense a heck of alot better than Mr out Ludwick.. Goodness Byrd has 35 doubles 23 homeruns.. 86 Rbis.. yea we dont need that.. the Reds offense is better.. I am not blind.. Byrd should be a RED if Walt wasnt asleep when he was put on Waivers!!

[RedlegJake]

ten days ago I thought this team was peaking at the perfect time. Short peak...

[Kc61]

Reds are developing too much of a record of failing in games like these, including at home. And tonight, so far, they look like a defeated team. Obviously, just based on watching the game from home.

Not blaming Baker, but something is going to have to change soon. Too much talent for this.

[CrackerJack]

You probably couldn't imagine Choo as a Reds this time last season. Or Latos as a Red before Walt's trade....

They had guys to trade, they don't now, unless they're rebuilding. And, there's no $$ left to acquire anyone new, per the norm here, unless we all start buying stock piles of fruit en masse.

[Redsfansince72]

ansd for once can BRUCE try a bunt down 3rd or take a outside pitch down 3rd?

[Falls City Beer]

Are you serious?? Byrd would make our offense a heck of alot better than Mr out Ludwick.. Goodness Byrd has 35 doubles 23 homeruns.. 86 Rbis.. yea we dont need that.. the Reds offense is better.. I am not blind.. Byrd should be a RED if Walt wasnt asleep when he was put on Waivers!!

I don't hate Byrd. But he and Morneau are not difference making bats, and this Pirates offense still sucks. Sorry.

I call it as I see it.

[Redsfansince72]

ten days ago I thought this team was peaking at the perfect time. Short peak...

I did too till they thought beating the Dodgers was all they had to do.. then go silent again.. Jacoby has to go.. if this is another failed season..

[Redsfansince72]

I don't hate Byrd. But he and Morneau are not difference making bats, and this Pirates offense still sucks. Sorry.

I call it as I see it.

I take Byrd over Ludwick EVERYDAY and we are not in 3rd place.. My opinion

[joshua]

I did too till they thought beating the Dodgers was all they had to do.. then go silent again.. Jacoby has to go.. if this is another failed season..

Season ain't over yet.

[Falls City Beer]

ten days ago I thought this team was peaking at the perfect time. Short peak...

This team has had one hot streak this season: May. They haven't sustained anything like a hot streak since.

[KittyDuran]

Natives are getting restless and Pirate fans are getting rowdy... :(

I had to get up from my seat - must have jumped up 20 times to let people pass during play. Ugh. Plus the cell coverage is terrible in that section. Definitely going to suggest upper level next year for the social media games - cheaper and I can at least get to watch the game.

[RedsBrick]

Where is that team that took 3 of 4 from the Cardinals and swept the Dodgers?

[Redsfansince72]

i just want to sense there is a urgency and a fired up Reds team. Heck put Teddy back in the dugout.. they hit when he is around..

[1940757690]

ten days ago I thought this team was peaking at the perfect time. Short peak...


This team has had one hot streak this season: May. They haven't sustained anything like a hot streak since.

After following the game and this team for decades, the throwaway phrase "anything can happen" takes on more meaning. Because it can. All bets off Tuesday. Lots of smart people in the game talk about how critical it is to just get into the dance. Once you do, as we have, you just don't know. Keeping the faith is good. It's why I'll do two long round trips by car to PNC this year within two weeks.

We've won 5 World Series. While of course I know not in 24 years (and lost decade, etc.), the point is that this team has a winning legacy.

This year, we'll finish with something north of 90 wins and around 20 over .500. Whatever one might argue about streaks, that's a very good year.

[SirFelixCat]

i just want to sense there is a urgency and a fired up Reds team. Heck put Teddy back in the dugout.. they hit when he is around..

Ya know, losing sucks.


But I can swallow it a little easier if the team just played/acted/showed that they gave a.

[Falls City Beer]

I think the Reds are trying. And I think it's bush to boo the home team. They're just a bat or two short.

[Matt700wlw]

i just want to sense there is a urgency and a fired up Reds team. Heck put Teddy back in the dugout.. they hit when he is around..

Urgency doesn't happen until the last game, with their backs against the wall.

That's what Dusty said.

[dubc47834]

Really

[1940757690]

I think the Reds are trying. And I think it's bush to boo the home team. They're just a bat or two short.

Exactly. Especially when they put together a year's body of work as they have this year.

[malcontent]

IMO, the Pittsburgh offense has slightly underperformed this year.

I think those guys could do some major damage in the playoffs.

Latos better be sharp.

[Red in Chicago]

i know he has a hit tonight, but ryan hanigan in the batter's box makes my head hurt.

[Falls City Beer]

After following the game and this team for decades, the throwaway phrase "anything can happen" takes on more meaning. Because it can. All bets off Tuesday. Lots of smart people in the game talk about how critical it is to just get into the dance. Once you do, as we have, you just don't know. Keeping the faith is good. It's why I'll do two long round trips by car to PNC this year within two weeks.

We've won 5 World Series. While of course I know not in 24 years (and lost decade, etc.), the point is that this team has a winning legacy.

This year, we'll finish with something north of 90 wins and around 20 over .500. Whatever one might argue about streaks, that's a very good year.

I think the Reds have virtually no chance to win the WS. But I certainly agree that it's been a good season, a good couple of seasons.

[Redsfansince72]

I think the Reds are trying. And I think it's bush to boo the home team. They're just a bat or two short.

So its the Fans fault.. Ludwick cant hit because we cant yell loud enough ..GRRR.. dont worry the Pirtaes are hungry and will be fired up Tuesday.. I want to see the same thing from our Reds.. Not blaming us for their swinging at bad pitches etc..

[1940757690]

IMO, the Pittsburgh offense has slightly underperformed this year.

I think those guys could do some major damage in the playoffs.

Sure, theoretically. If they weren't facing us on Tuesday. I really think their season ends Tuesday. And they'll feel good about that with some weeks to mull it over since they haven't made postseason in so long. If I didn't believe that, I wouldn't consider shelling out time and $ to attend that game on Tuesday.

[Redsfansince72]

i know he has a hit tonight, but ryan hanigan in the batter's box makes my head hurt.

and Dusty wont hit for him.. no matter if the bases are loaded.. I would, he wont

[Falls City Beer]

So its the Fans fault.. Ludwick cant hit because we cant yell loud enough ..GRRR.. dont worry the Pirtaes are hungry and will be fired up Tuesday.. I want to see the same thing from our Reds.. Not blaming us for their swinging at bad pitches etc..

I don't think it's the fan's fault at all. I just think its distasteful to boo. Just don't go if you're going to boo.

[Redsfansince72]

IMO, the Pittsburgh offense has slightly underperformed this year.

I think those guys could do some major damage in the playoffs.

Latos better be sharp.

sadly the way this lack of offense is going, he has to pitch a shutout to have a chance to maybe win 1-0.. thats what scares me

[Red in Chicago]

logan getting the job done this inning

[Kc61]

i know he has a hit tonight, but ryan hanigan in the batter's box makes my head hurt.

The catcher position offensively this year has been a serious problem. It needs to be corrected.

[Red in Chicago]

"the big boy trying to grab the ball":lol:

[Redsfansince72]

what was that guy doing.. a Reds fan gets out of the way.. goodness..i was at a Reds game in the 70;s, the first batter hit a fly ball down the RF line.. it was headed for me.. i was seating right next to the wall, i saw Griffey Sr coming i backed out of the way and let him catch it..

[Red in Chicago]

The catcher position offensively this year has been a serious problem. It needs to be corrected.

at least in prior years, hanigan's obp was a bonus. now it's just pitiful.

[Redsfansince72]

The catcher position offensively this year has been a serious problem. It needs to be corrected.

love to see McCann a Red :D

[1940757690]

I don't think it's the fan's fault at all. I just think its distasteful to boo. Just don't go if you're going to boo.

I'm not as serious about the booing, cheering, hair-on-fire, Luddy stuff as some of you. It's a game. it's entertainment. it's inspiration, a welcome distraction and wonderful metaphor for so much in life.

Love the team. So want them to win. And win big. Crestfallen when they lose big games...for awhile...usually short. Believe they're doing their best and that some luck plays a big part in this game.

Boo, cheer, scream, be siient. You buy the ticket, it's your choice. Just cool in my book that you're there if you're able. Or watching if not. Or reading the recap next morning. Whatever you can do.

I'm guessing that's how Teddy would see it if asked. I think it's a good way to think about it.

[malcontent]

Sure, theoretically. If they weren't facing us on Tuesday. I really think their season ends Tuesday. And they'll feel good about that with some weeks to mull it over since they haven't made postseason in so long. If I didn't believe that, I wouldn't consider shelling out time and $ to attend that game on Tuesday.
Problem is that, by and large, they're VETERANS.

Not making the playoffs in 25 years may not mean anything.

I really think the Reds lose to Liriano in Pittsburgh.

[Virginia Beach Reds]

This is the money inning. Show some life home team!

[jojo]

what was that guy doing.. a Reds fan gets out of the way.. goodness..i was at a Reds game in the 70;s, the first batter hit a fly ball down the RF line.. it was headed for me.. i was seating right next to the wall, i saw Griffey Sr coming i backed out of the way and let him catch it..

Back in Dusty's day, fans were embarrassed to get in the way.

[1940757690]

Problem is that, by and large, they're VETERANS.

Not making the playoffs in 25 years may not mean anything.

I really think the Reds lose to Liriano in Pittsburgh.

Totally your right. Given that view though, and despite your location, we won't be car-pooling Tuesday. ;)

I know we both hope they prove you wrong.

[Hillsdale87]

Come on Choo! Take one for the team :)

[Falcon7]

Take one for the team Choo.

[1940757690]

Take one for the team Choo.

The one I'd most like to see him take for the team is a bit of a haircut on the salary demand.

[OldXOhio]

Problem is that, by and large, they're VETERANS.

Not making the playoffs in 25 years may not mean anything.

I really think the Reds lose to Liriano in Pittsburgh.

I can't understand why anyone would think otherwise?

[1940757690]

This is the second consecutive time Burnett has steam-rolled us. Yet another reason to be optimistic about Tuesday as I remain convinced he'd be the Bucs' best chance to beat us in the playin.

[Falcon7]

Good hang time Luddy.

[Playadlc]

I can't understand why anyone would think otherwise?

Biggest reason being the Reds have a better baseball team.

[Red in Chicago]

i can't believe they have managed 5 hits tonight. there have been so many weak at bats.

[1940757690]

I can't understand why anyone would think otherwise?

Uh, because we took 2 of 3 at PNC last weekend and will win more than 90 on the year. For starters.

[Falcon7]

This is the second consecutive time Burnett has steam-rolled us. Yet another reason to be optimistic about Tuesday as I remain convinced he'd be the Bucs' best chance to beat us in the playin.

If needed he will be available on Tues.

[Redsfansince72]

how many sell outs have the Reds actually won a game?? seems 2/3 of them they lost..

[Falls City Beer]

The Reds best shot lies in starting Hamilton. I've been saying so for months.

[Kc61]

Biggest reason being the Reds have a better baseball team.

Not with Burnett on the mound, as of late. He's too good for the Reds offense right now.

Reds could still do some business against the Bucs against some of their other pitchers.

Very difficult to see the Reds making it to the NLCS this year. But stranger things have happened. So we'll keep watching.

[alloverjr]

Perhaps the boos for Ludwick wouldn't have been so loud if there weren't so many people there. Guy's a vet. Probably knew it was coming.

[1940757690]

If needed he will be available on Tues.

Sure. As will Bailey, Cueto and Chapman for us. Will be important to get out to a good start like we did Sunday against Locke. And, before anyone argues that Liriano is no Locke, I'd just offer that we have beaten a bunch of great pitchers this year with the LA and STL series just the most recent examples.

[malcontent]

I knew the acquisitions of Byrd and Morneau were big when they happened.

Just how big is becoming increasingly clear.

I wonder what Jocketty will say (if they prove to be the difference)? Anything?

[NeilHamburger]

Bottom line, outside of a one week stretch against the Cards and Dodgers this team has looked dead since May. If this team loses to Pittsburgh on Tuesday I think you need to shakeup the team.

[vaticanplum]

Braves have won and Cardinals are winning. When was the last time the Cards lost a game? July?

[Redsfansince72]

I knew the acquisitions of Byrd and Morneau were big when they happened.

Just how big is becoming increasingly clear.

I wonder what Jocketty will say (if they prove to be the difference)? Anything?

I am still asking why the beat writers NEVER asked him why he let Byrd get to the Pirates knowing our offense is so roller coaster and now its down the bad side again

[mivers176]

Bottom line, outside of a one week stretch against the Cards and Dodgers this team has looked dead since May. If this team loses to Pittsburgh on Tuesday I think you need to shakeup the team.

I agree ... offensively this team cant be much more boring to watch. They look lost at the plate way too often. If we dont get a run in the 9th, that'll be a whopping 6 runs in our last 4 games. Ridiculous.

[malcontent]

The Reds best shot lies in starting Hamilton. I've been saying so for months.
You mean for Ludwick?

Against Liriano, it might actually be better to sit Choo. But we know that won't happen. Baker can die a happy man(ager) without a WS ring, so long as he never went against the book when it counted.

[Red in Chicago]

chuck d in the house...

[vaticanplum]

I'm really happy I'm going to Cincinnati tomorrow because I cannot listen to either of these team's announcers anymore. I can't.

[malcontent]

I am still asking why the beat writers NEVER asked him why he let Byrd get to the Pirates knowing our offense is so roller coaster and now its down the bad side again
Good point. No idea why.

[Redsfansince72]

the fans are loud.. maybe Luddy cant hear it

[Red in Chicago]

votto caught a break i think

[Falcon7]

He swung

[OldXOhio]

Biggest reason being the Reds have a better baseball team.

That would be your opinion. My opinion is despite what the stats may show over the course of the year, there isn't much right now that says the Reds are better than the Pirates. Winning 2/3 there last weekend matters nothing.

[1940757690]

Bottom line, outside of a one week stretch against the Cards and Dodgers this team has looked dead since May. If this team loses to Pittsburgh on Tuesday I think you need to shakeup the team.

Despite 90+ wins?!
And, if they win Tuesday and then lose in the LDS, you don't shake it up?
Sounds a bit impulsive.

[Redsfansince72]

lets take a big advatge now.. come on Brandon you got to hit!!

[Red in Chicago]

312:beerme:

[Stray]

lol

[Redsfansince72]

Grrrrrrrrr

[Red in Chicago]

not enough swag brandon

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Pitiful.

[vaticanplum]

This lineup: not my favorite.

[Redsfansince72]

Pirates look WAY more hungry !!!!!!sucks!!

[1940757690]

312:beerme:

Standing O for Joey. Totally deserved imho.

[Red Raindog]

Ok - win the next two --- but crap -- another poor result

[Redsfansince72]

Now time for Reds live and the Dusty excuses..:(

[Falcon7]

Well they got 1 run, tonight. Awesome

[RedsBrick]

Sorry, but if BP's gonna swing at the first pitch it better be a meat pitch...that wasn't.

[toledodan]

Pirates look WAY more hungry !!!!!!sucks!!

i wonder if dusty thinks it's time for uregency yet??

[Cedric]

The Walt era might be remembered for what could have been and the Phillips extension.

I'm already going there with the BPhil signing.

[1940757690]

Disappointing win but really doesn't matter too much. Could still get homefield with wins tomorrow and Sunday. And, if we don't I still like our chances Tuesday however many others here may disagree.

Until tomorrow.

[Redsfansince72]

I really miss the leadership Rolen provided.. Really shows now.. nobody steps it up now.. just going thru the motions.. thats not how you win a Championship..

[Hillsdale87]

Phillips needs to move down in the lineup. As bad as Cozart and Frazier have been for parts of this season, I would rather see them at the top of the lineup than Phillips or Ludwick at this point. It won't happen because Dusty won't do that to the vets, but I think it would be helpful. I have no confidence when I see Phillips or Ludwick up.

[Red Raindog]

i wonder if dusty thinks it's time for uregency yet??

Tuesday in the top of the 9th??