9/28/13 Reds v. Pirates

[NebraskaRed]

Choo 8,
Ludwick 7,
Votto 3,
Phillips 4,
Bruce 9,
Frazier 5,
Cozart 6,
Hanigan 2,
Arroyo 1

This could be Arroyo's last regular season start for the Reds.

[redsfan30]

Could be his last start as a Red period if they don't win on Tuesday. I am going to savor his outing today as much as I can for that reason.

[Red Raindog]

Choo 8,
Ludwick 7,
Votto 3,
Phillips 4,
Bruce 9,
Frazier 5,
Cozart 6,
Hanigan 2,
Arroyo 1

This could be Arroyo's last regular season start for the Reds.

I guess it's the old theory if it didn't work -- try it again

That's assuming there is any theory or thought involved

[kbrake]

I'd like to see them roll the dice and just throw Hamilton in there but the way this offense is going I don't think there is really any tweaking that will fix it.

[mbgrayson]

Bronson Arroyo has produced an amazing record of durability and relative consistency. Today he will likely go over 200 innings for the season.

With that he will have pitched 8 seasons for the Reds, and his lowest number of innings was 199 in 2011. He has started 32 or more games each of those 8 seasons, and has typically won 14 or 15 games a year. His ERA has been under 4.00 in five of those years, and he has been the very definition of an inning eater.

He also has a lot of personality, and is a true professional. It will be interesting to see what kind of contract he can get for his age 37+ seasons.

[Red Raindog]

Bronson Arroyo has produced an amazing record of durability and relative consistency. Today he will likely go over 200 innings for the season.

With that he will have pitched 8 seasons for the Reds, and his lowest number of innings was 199 in 2011. He has started 32 or more games each of those 8 seasons, and has typically won 14 or 15 games a year. His ERA has been under 4.00 in five of those years, and he has been the very definition of an inning eater.

He also has a lot of personality, and is a true professional. It will be interesting to see what kind of contract he can get for his age 37+ seasons.

Yeah - I've thrown the odd shoe at the TV while Bronson was on the mound -- but his body of work has been really a joy for me.

[KittyDuran]

Could be his last start as a Red period if they don't win on Tuesday. I am going to savor his outing today as much as I can for that reason.

Well I'm here eating a sub wearing my Arroyo designed t-shirt... Maybe for the last time :(. My head says he's gone for good, but my heart keeps hoping...

[powersackers]

Wrong thread I suppose.

[oneupper]

Ludwick hit second a lot under LaRussa, in front of Pujols and did very well.
But I'm not liking him there simply because he's not hitting or getting on base right now. I doubt Votto's protection will help much.

[toledodan]

Choo with a hit. Watching on fox deportes in kansas city lol

[Kc61]

Two on, one out, Reds.

[HokieRed]

Votto walks with Choo in scoring position. What will Marty say?

[kbrake]

Votto pitched around again. Doesn't get himself out. Reds media and fans I'm sure still blaming him for the team struggling lately.

[Kc61]

McCarver -- Phillips best defensive second baseman he's ever seen.

[Kc61]

Phillips with a little grounder, no DP, first and third for Bruce, two outs.

BP not hitting.

[kbrake]

Once again the RH bats not doing anything.

[Kc61]

Once again the RH bats not doing anything.

Exactly. This inning says it all. Choo and Votto get on. The second and fourth guys do nothing.

Then up to Bruce who is not a high percentage guy, but can do serious damage.

Good luck Jay.

[Kc61]

Bases loaded on a walk. Up to Frazier with bags full.

Good luck, Frazier.

[moewan]

God I hate you Fox, I'm getting Tampa at Toronto here. :thumbdown:

[kbrake]

Sums up so much of the problem this season. Awful inning.

[HokieRed]

Pitch around Votto and Bruce, make the right handers beat you. Not very difficult to see how to approach the Reds' lineup.

[Norm Chortleton]

Still following the script of threatening early but coming up short. Good thing I'm leaving for a college football game shortly and will miss the portion of the game where they are no-hit for 4-5 innings.

[xsteve1]

We've seen it all year. This team just does not hit with two outs with runners in scoring position. That's the reason the Cards are in first and the Reds aren't.

[Red Raindog]

Phillips with a little grounder, no DP, first and third for Bruce, two outs.

BP not hitting.

needs to be bold IMO

[OnBaseMachine]

The Reds #2 hitter has a .632 OPS and cleanup hitter has a .702 OPS.

[Reds Fanatic]

Martin flies out to right. 1st and 3rd.

[Kc61]

We've seen it all year. This team just does not hit with two outs with runners in scoring position. That's the reason the Cards are in first and the Reds aren't.

Here's my theory. Problem is the huge fall off after Choo, Votto and Bruce in offensive performance.

With two outs, pitch around the big three. Face a weaker hitter. That guy will likely fail and usually does.

So, today, Choo gets on. Pirates immediately use this strategy. Pitch to Ludwick, Phillips, Frazier. Pitch around Votto and Bruce.

It's easiest with two outs. Just never allow one of the big three to hit with two outs men on. Pitch to the others and usually succeed.

Votto and Bruce back to back can help impair this strategy, but of course it leaves the order below cleanup quite weak. Phillips also impaired this strategy when he was hitting so well with men on base earlier.

It's not a two out problem. There are just too many hitters having below average or worse seasons. Gives the opposition an easy target.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes strikes out swinging. 0-0 mid 2nd

[xsteve1]

Byrd was a heck of a pickup for the Pirates. Wish the Reds would've tried to get him.

[NebraskaRed]

Rocky start to the inning, but Arroyo takes care of business.

[1940757690]

Miracle of miracles. The local FOX affiliate in DC is showing the game. It'd be nice if the bats would do something today in recognition of this highly unusual event for an east coast based Reds fan.

[Kc61]

Byrd was a heck of a pickup for the Pirates. Wish the Reds would've tried to get him.

Problem is the Reds have an investment in Ludwick. The Reds would have had to cast Ryan into a bench role if they acquired Byrd.

Not saying it wouldn't have been good. But the Reds are paying Ludwick starting player's salary and once healthy they were going to play him.

[BCubb2003]

Here's my theory. Problem is the huge fall off after Choo, Votto and Bruce in offensive performance.

With two outs, pitch around the big three. Face a weaker hitter. That guy will likely fail and usually does.

So, today, Choo gets on. Pirates immediately use this strategy. Pitch to Ludwick, Phillips, Frazier. Pitch around Votto and Bruce.

It's easiest with two outs. Just never allow one of the big three to hit with two outs men on. Pitch to the others and usually succeed.

Votto and Bruce back to back can help impair this strategy, but of course it leaves the order below cleanup quite weak. Phillips also impaired this strategy when he was hitting so well with men on base earlier.

It's not a two out problem. There are just too many hitters having below average or worse seasons.

Yes, the offense just isn't very deep. Too many rest stops for the pitcher. It was even worse when the lightest hitters were in the 2 spot.

But then, the Pirates just failed, too.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart strikes out looking

[Kc61]

Yes, the offense just isn't very deep. Too many rest stops for the pitcher. It was even worse when the lightest hitters were in the 2 spot.

But then, the Pirates just failed, too.

Not comparing the Reds' offense and Bucs'. Reds offense is better than Pirates. IMO, though, given the OBP of Votto and Choo and given GABP, the Reds offense should be better than the Cards.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan grounds out to 3rd.

[Red Raindog]

Here's my theory. Problem is the huge fall off after Choo, Votto and Bruce in offensive performance.

With two outs, pitch around the big three. Face a weaker hitter. That guy will likely fail and usually does.

So, today, Choo gets on. Pirates immediately use this strategy. Pitch to Ludwick, Phillips, Frazier. Pitch around Votto and Bruce.

It's easiest with two outs. Just never allow one of the big three to hit with two outs men on. Pitch to the others and usually succeed.

Votto and Bruce back to back can help impair this strategy, but of course it leaves the order below cleanup quite weak. Phillips also impaired this strategy when he was hitting so well with men on base earlier.

It's not a two out problem. There are just too many hitters having below average or worse seasons. Gives the opposition an easy target.

RH hitting has been the weakness IMO

Can't fault the lefties much

[Reds Fanatic]

Arroyo strikes out looking. 0-0 after 2.

[Kc61]

RH hitting has been the weakness IMO

Can't fault the lefties much

The big three happen to be lefties. But whatever their handedness, the problem is as was just said, there are too many rest stops in the lineup. Very well put.

I just think it's a shame. A GABP team with the two top OBP men in the league?

Could have been amazing.

C'mon Bronson keep holding them down.

[Reds Fanatic]

Morton pops out to 2nd

[1940757690]

Byrd was a heck of a pickup for the Pirates. Wish the Reds would've tried to get him.

Has been a nice pickup for the Bucs but his SLG and OPS are down 70 and 60 pts respectively from what they were in NY. Also don't know that the Reds didn't inquire or what we moght have had to give up. He's also "on the wrong side" of 35!

All that just to make a simple point not as obvious on a day like today. Acquiring Byrd when he hit the market a couple of months ago probably and rightly wasn't a no-brainer for us.

[Reds Fanatic]

Marte grounds out to Arroyo

[toledodan]

The big three happen to be lefties. But whatever their handedness, the problem is as was just said, there are too many rest stops in the lineup. Very well put.

I just think it's a shame. A GABP team with the two top OBP men in the league?

Could have been amazing.

C'mon Bronson keep holding them down.

To be fair ludwick's injury really put a wrench into it.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ugh. Walker homers to right center. 1-0 Pirates

[xsteve1]

1-0 Rats

[Matt700wlw]

Yeah. Great. Wonderful.

[Reds Fanatic]

Back to back. McCutchen hammered that to center.

[Kc61]

To be fair ludwick's injury really put a wrench into it.

Not disagreeing. I did say, back early in the season, that Jocketty needed to beef up left field with Ludwick out. He stuck with his bench and paid a price.

On the other hand, Frazier, Mesoraco, Cozart, Hanigan and ultimately Phillips were healthy. When one looks at their numbers it's not just the injury.

But don't disagree the injury hurt.

[1940757690]

To be fair ludwick's injury really put a wrench into it.

Your point--totally fair and right imho--has been made a zillion times on multiple threads here in the past few weeks. Suffice to say can't change all minds.

And Walker and McCutcheon go back to back on Bronson. Oh boy.

[toledodan]

Bye bronson

[xsteve1]

2-0 as Clutch goes deep. Looks like it will be in Pittsburgh on Tuesday which might be a good thing for our pitchers,

[redssince75]

Yikes. Back to back jacks. I've been repeating a mantra for the last two days.

"Tuesday's the only game that matters. Tuesday's the only game that matters. Tuesday's the only game that matters...."

[Reds Fanatic]

Morneau singles to right

[1940757690]

Looked that way yesterday.

[DocRed]

Welp time to get ready for the WC in Pittsburgh. Hope Latos is up for it since our bats certainly haven't been.

[Kc61]

Your point--totally fair and right imho--has been made a zillion times on multiple threads here in the past few weeks. Suffice to say can't change all minds.

And Walker and McCutcheon go back to back on Bronson. Oh boy.

It's not just obstinance. I'd be more than happy to say it's merely the Ludwick injury if that were true.

But folks might want to consult the OPS and other stats for such people as Phillips, Frazier, Mesoraco, Hanigan, Cozart. These folks were healthy mostly.

[malcontent]

Did Votto play matador again?

[Reds Fanatic]

Byrd grounds into a 6-4 FC. 2-0 Pirates mid 3rd

[Kc61]

Welp time to get ready for the WC in Pittsburgh. Hope Latos is up for it since our bats certainly haven't been.

Game ain't over yet. This isn't Burnett. Reds just need a break or a big homer to get things going.

They can get to this guy.

[BCubb2003]

Yikes. Back to back jacks. I've been repeating a mantra for the last two days.

"Tuesday's the only game that matters. Tuesday's the only game that matters. Tuesday's the only game that matters...."

That was probably the point Dusty was making about urgency.

[xsteve1]

Game ain't over yet. This isn't Burnett. Reds just need a break or a big homer to get things going.

They can get to this guy.

The Reds playing from behind is not good no matter who's pitching and Morton isn't chopped liver.

[1940757690]

And, Magical Marlon makes the final out top 3.

Guess good we didn't pick him up after all. Terrible player ready for pasture. ;)

[Reds Fanatic]

Choo hit by a pitch for the 26th time this year

[Matt700wlw]

Choo needs to go all Kung Fu on a pitcher one of these days

[Kc61]

The Reds playing from behind is not good no matter who's pitching and Morton isn't chopped liver.

I'm often a critic of the Reds offense. But they can get five runs today at home against this guy. He's not chopped liver but he's a righty they can get to.

Choo HBP.

[757690]

If I was a Pirate fan, I'd assume that intentional

[kbrake]

Down 2 and trying to bunt in the 3rd inning. I'm ready for a major change with this team.

[1940757690]

It's not just obstinance. I'd be more than happy to say it's merely the Ludwick injury if that were true.

But folks might want to consult the OPS and other stats for such people as Phillips, Frazier, Mesoraco, Hanigan, Cozart. These folks were healthy mostly.

Absolutely, Kc. My post was purely about Luddy and the reactions he has prompted (some due to ill-conceived comments) on this board.

[Reds Fanatic]

Choo running and Ludwick grounds out to 3rd

[Reds Fanatic]

Wild pitch moves Choo to 3rd

[1940757690]

If I was a Pirate fan, I'd assume that intentional

If I was a braves fan, I'd be blocking base paths and hurling bottles back.

Choo to 3B!

[xsteve1]

Choo to 3rd. Have to get him in.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto walks

[kbrake]

Once again Votto basically gets an intentional walk. Have to wonder if they would do the same if Bruce was hitting behind him.

[Kc61]

Once again, Choo gets on. Bucs pitch around Votto.

Can't expect Votto to swing at those pitches.

Pirates will take their shot with Phllips.

Story of the offense this year, essentially.

C'mon Brandon.

[xsteve1]

Finally BP. 2-1 now.

[Reds Fanatic]

Big hit. Phillips singles to right. 2-1 Pirates. 1st and 2nd.

[Kc61]

That's how to do it, BP, nice single to right. Good at bat there.

[1940757690]

Choo and Votto at the corners and BP delivers.

Who said dat dude "isn't hitting?" More than 100 RBIs, right? A little faith please.

[RedWilly]

momentum is shifting

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce doubles off the top of the wall in left center. 3-2 Reds!!!

[Kc61]

Ok, Bruce. Great work.

[kbrake]

Folks, we have a pulse.

[sonny]

Holy crooked numbers Batman!!

[RedWilly]

momentum shiftED

fixed it myself

[xsteve1]

Bruce with a big 2 RBI double. Reds lead. Phillips is pumped.

[1940757690]

And Jay.! All the Jay critics, your turn for mea culpas now but let the BP critics go first.

Chirp. Chirp.

We're up 3-2 with more coming.

[Jerry Narron]

Swag Phillips showing some fire after scoring that run.

[Kc61]

Hey Pirates. Want to throw at the lead off guy next inning again?

[BCubb2003]

Once again Votto basically gets an intentional walk. Have to wonder if they would do the same if Bruce was hitting behind him.

I had an insightful post already to go about how the walk is what the other team wants to happen ...

[RedWilly]

Todd hates walks

[1940757690]

And, Todd goes full before grouding to Pedro.

Man, if we could get all RZ to review the last 50 posts on this thread, it might really reduce the negativity and restore some perspective and balance here. All that negativity then 180-shift to sunshine and roses.

We've got a very good team!! Even when Luddy or BP don't hit. Even when we lose a game or two. That's why I'll be going to Pittsubrgh...if the game is even there.

[Reds Fanatic]

Frazier grounds out to 3rd

[RedWilly]

Nice inning

Too early to bring in Chapman???

[Kc61]

And, Todd goes full before grouding to Pedro.

Man, if we could get all RZ to review the last 50 posts on this thread, it might really reduce the negativity and restore some perspective and balance here. All that negativity then 180-shift to sunshine and roses.

We've got a very good team!! Even when Luddy or BP don't hit. Even if we lost a game or two.

Being a critical fan is not negativity unless it's malicious. Some fans prefer to root analytically. Others feel fandom equals applause.

Both styles are fine and I don't think anybody should try and tell others how to root for a team. As long as it's done respectfully and fairly.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart grounds out to Morton. 3-2 Reds after 3.

[1940757690]

Cozy almost ran that out. 3-2 end 3.

Excellent inning for our bats. Smart baserunning and timely hitting.

[dougdirt]

Choo and Votto at the corners and BP delivers.

Who said dat dude "isn't hitting?" More than 100 RBIs, right? A little faith please.

To be fair, math says he isn't hitting since June began.

[dougdirt]

Also, how do people get announcing jobs?

Last inning they were talking about Phillips in the cleanup spot and mentioned he "can also strikeout", hinting that he has swing and miss to his game. He has the lowest K rate of any starter on the Reds, by a decent margin. His K rate is well below the league average. These are very easy things to know.

/end rant for now

[Kc61]

To be fair, math says he isn't hitting since June began.

I with Phillips would show some power again. I don't expect the same speed as before, but the power seems diminished.

Hopefully it's just mechanical and he'll work the power back into his game.

Nice hit there, right through the vacant spot.

Tie game.

[1940757690]

Being a critical fan is not negativity unless it's malicious. Some fans prefer to root analytically. Others feel fandom equals applause.

Both styles are fine and I don't think anybody should try and tell others how to root for a team. As long as it's done respectfully and fairly.

Again agree entirely. Judgment call when you or I or anyone reads specific posts whether to term something "analytical," "constructively critical" or "negative." I think all can fit. Just as "positive" comments can be "analytical" or "substantive" versus something a bit pejorative like "fandom." "Negative" and "malicious" are not synonyms fyi. But, yes, to each his own. Absolutely.

Pedro ties with a monster moonshot to RF. 3-3

[BluegrassRedleg]

Real nice inning there. Need to keep playing add-on vs Morton.

[Reds Fanatic]

Alvarez crushes a pitch. Tie game 3-3.

[xsteve1]

Bronson..ughh 3-3. Alvarez is strong.

[Reds Fanatic]

Martin flies out to right

[Kc61]

Bronson is such a smart pitcher. He realized years ago that he is prone to homers. So he doesn't walk anyone and they are so often solo shots.

This game could be a disaster, but all the gophers are solos.

Hopefully he will only allow the three dingers.

[toledodan]

This is why bronson can't be brought back

[TheBigLebowski]

Bad day to get bad Bronson.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes strikes out swinging. 2 Ks.

[Reds Fanatic]

Morton grounds out to short. 3-3 mid 4th

[Matt700wlw]

30 HRs for Arroyo. NL leader

[1940757690]

Inning over. 3-3. We've got ourselves a game, ladies and gents.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Bronson is such a smart pitcher. He realized years ago that he is prone to homers. So he doesn't walk anyone and they are so often solo shots.

This game could be a disaster, but all the gophers are solos.

Hopefully he will only allow the three dingers.

Agree. Learned to appreciate him more and more the last 2-3 seasons. He is what he is... and usually that's a real good thing.

[Matt700wlw]

Reynolds and Christiani have been warming up in the bullpen.

[toledodan]

Reynolds and Christiani have been warming up in the bullpen.

If either pitches in a close game today dusty should be canned.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan grounds out to 3rd

[Kc61]

Thanks Hanigan for great years as a Reds catcher.

[HokieRed]

Reynolds and Christiani have been warming up in the bullpen.

I guess we've decided to take our chances in Pittsburgh.

[Matt700wlw]

If either pitches in a close game today dusty should be canned.

Urgency is not until Tuesday. It's all good :)

[Magdal]

Glad to hear you guys perking up. Don't give up the ship. ;)

A comment on McCarver's BP statement: I think the reason he has never seen a better 2Bman is because guys with that much talent play SS! Why does BP play 2B? (just curious)

[Reds Fanatic]

Arroyo grounds out to 3rd

[Kc61]

Pence five years $90 million deal with the Giants.

Wave to Choo in the rear view mirror.

Probably.

[Kc61]

Choo walks.

[toledodan]

Urgency is not until Tuesday. It's all good :)

Yeah, dusty will run out a sunday special.:lol:

[kbrake]

I can't get over that Pence deal. Choo is going to get a boat load.

[Spazzrico]

300/300 !!!

[RedWilly]

Pence five years $90 million deal with the Giants.

Wave to Choo in the rear view mirror.

Probably.

He's been on base all 3 times today! We have to give him whatever he wants to stay!

[kbrake]

If Ludwick homers I will stand and cheer from my basement.

[RedlegJake]

Glad to hear you guys perking up. Don't give up the ship. ;)

A comment on McCarver's BP statement: I think the reason he has never seen a better 2Bman is because guys with that much talent play SS! Why does BP play 2B? (just curious)

When they got BP Felipe Lopez/Royce Clayton were at SS. The next year they signed AGon for SS. They slotted BP at 2nd to get him in the lineup.

[xsteve1]

Pence five years $90 million deal with the Giants.

Wave to Choo in the rear view mirror.

Probably.

Baseball is crazy.

[texasdave]

If Ludwick homers I will stand and cheer from my basement.

And I will stand and cheer from the basement of the Alamo. :)

[RedWilly]

If Ludwick homers I will stand and cheer from my basement.

What does the pop out get?

[Reds Fanatic]

Ludwick fouls out to 1st. 3-3 after 4

[BCubb2003]

Glad to hear you guys perking up. Don't give up the ship. ;)

A comment on McCarver's BP statement: I think the reason he has never seen a better 2Bman is because guys with that much talent play SS! Why does BP play 2B? (just curious)

By the time people realized what they had in him, management didn't want to move him to a new position.

[toledodan]

Ludwick go away

[RedlegJake]

Pence five years $90 million deal with the Giants.

Wave to Choo in the rear view mirror.

Probably.

Pence/Pujols/Hamilton - teams are starting to look at these contracts for what they are...Pence's deal may be more of a cautionary tale than a precursor BUT Choo is likely going to get something close because he is much better than Pence to begin with

[kbrake]

What does the pop out get?

Was going to get up for a bottle of water but as a move of protest I'll wait until next inning.

[Billy Hamilton's Legs]

Pence five years $90 million deal with the Giants.

Wave to Choo in the rear view mirror.

Probably.

I just worry about this offense a lot without him next year. Can Walt make any upgrades without doing something drastic? Our offensive holes are at 2b, 3b, ss, cf, lf, and catcher, and all are filled with guys that I don't see getting traded (or benched).

[RedlegJake]

Was going to get up for a bottle of water but as a move of protest I'll wait until next inning.

I have a grandchild's BD party to attend later so I am stick with Dr. Thunder rather than my ordinary baseball libation...

[Reds Fanatic]

Another homer run by Walker. 4-3 Pirates

[Playadlc]

Nice outing, Bronson.

[DocRed]

Dusty.....

[Reds Fanatic]

McCutchen singles to left

[PepperJack]

Bronson has CRUSHED any form of momentum up until this point... it is early ...still.

[texasdave]

When you think of Bronson Arroyo two things come to mind:

1) That unusual leg kick.
2) Solo home runs.

[toledodan]

Lol bronson. Atleast walt was shown on tv so maybe he's out of his coma now.

[DocRed]

Not sure you offer Arroyo a qualifying offer now for fear you might actually get stuck with him....

[Reds Fanatic]

Nice play by Phillips on a 4-6 FC

[Kc61]

I just worry about this offense a lot without him next year. Can Walt make any upgrades without doing something drastic? Our offensive holes are at 2b, 3b, ss, cf, and catcher, and all are filled with guys that I don't see getting traded (or benched).

If the Reds refuse to upgrade their positions they deserve whatever they get.

The catcher position is 14th in OPS in the NL and 25th in the MLB. If the Reds just sit still there then they are just refusing to get better IMO.

[kbrake]

Not sure you offer Arroyo a qualifying offer now for fear you might actually get stuck with him....

I don't think so. Bronson would do very well in a legit sized ballpark.

[Tom Servo]

I wanna die.

[Matt700wlw]

Holy sweet Jesus

[Reds Fanatic]

Wow. Arroyo gives up a 5th homer.

[kbrake]

Would hate to see this team managed with a sense of urgency.

[50YrRedsFan]

"I think you can go get him now"

[DocRed]

Nice job leaving Arroyo in Dusty....geezus.

[edabbs44]

And to top it off, he is submarining my fantasy season.

[DocRed]

Thank God Dusty has a 5 home run limit.

[reds700]

This team hasn't got a prayer of winning the wildcard game. That much is clear.

[toledodan]

You suck bronson and dusty

[Billy Hamilton's Legs]

Embarrassing. Luckily, only the game on Tuesday really matters.

[Reds Fanatic]

I think it is safe to say none of us will ever forget Arroyo's probable last start as a Red

[Playadlc]

Another egg layed in a big game. Bengals and Reds are practically the same franchise.

[texasdave]

That was disappointing. Geez.

[kbrake]

Trying to leave your guys in long enough to qualify for a potential win is cool in May and I get it probably makes you popular with the players but this isn't the time for it. Same story in the NLDS last season no urgency at all. At least this week Dusty made it clear that he doesn't feel a sense of urgency.

[DocRed]

Embarrassingly bad pitcher management by Dusty....

[NebraskaRed]

This team hasn't got a prayer of winning the wildcard game. That much is clear.

Oh, seriously? Well, it's been a fun and frustrating season everyone. Too bad they lost that one wildcard game and ended their season. But, according to reds700, that's what happened.

See you all in the spring!

[Magdal]

By the time people realized what they had in him, management didn't want to move him to a new position."New"? I'm sure BP played SS at every level he's played, as well as 3rd, 1st and OF.

Another HR....good grief. Do you think Dusty will just let him finish the game, and start tomorro's game!!?:(

[xsteve1]

Pittsburgh made moves to get better, The Reds stood pat. SF did the same with Pence last year.

[TheBigLebowski]

Thanks for everything Bronson. But I hope that's your last hurrah as a Red.

[Reds Fanatic]

Alvarez strikes out

[tomnuetten]

redszone is on it again ;)


Not sure you offer Arroyo a qualifying offer now for fear you might actually get stuck with him....

yeah because he had a terrible year and is very inconsistent ;)


This team hasn't got a prayer of winning the wildcard game. That much is clear.

mhm prayers?!? praying is like sitting around and doing nothing


You suck bronson and dusty

[BluegrassRedleg]

This team hasn't got a prayer of winning the wildcard game. That much is clear.

If they score 3+ runs like today, I'd almost guarantee they will.

Big if, though.

[texasdave]

Pittsburgh made moves to get better, The Reds stood pat. SF did the same with Pence last year.

Yep. Marlon Byrd wouldn't have helped the Reds. Not a bit.

[DocRed]

WTH was Dusty saving the pen for? We don't win today and the next meaningful game is Tuesday, 3 days later.

[Ohayou]

Maybe playing in PNC Park isn't so bad of an idea after all.

[Kc61]

Someone said 30 homers allowed would lead the NL.

One sixth of that given up by Arroyo in one game, today.

What exactly was the thinking leaving him in that long? Give him five innings? Get the win? Save the pen it doesn't matter anyway?

Excuse me those who find all to be well with the Reds. But this is the most frustrating Reds team I can remember.

Maybe the offense will get it going, whatever.

[Red Raindog]

Urgency is not until Tuesday. It's all good :)

top of 9th on Tuesday

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto on as Morton boots the ground ball

[BlackPete Ibold]

Frustration Nation would be more apt these days than any notion of a positive Reds Nation

[kbrake]

Just hard to see this team going anywhere with Dusty running things. The talent has continued to get better since 2010 but the result is the same and now looks like it will be even a little bit worse.

[BCubb2003]

top of 9th on Tuesday

Billy Hamilton time.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Maybe playing in PNC Park isn't so bad of an idea after all.

Have maintained all along I think it's a good idea to get out of the bandbox. Less pressure, less cheap HR threat (although not claiming that about today's shots, just in general,)

[malcontent]

Embarrassing. Luckily, only the game on Tuesday really matters.
I'm afraid Tuesday's result is a foregone conclusion.

Unless Jocketty forces Baker to shake things up with Hamilton. Which he won't, of course.

[DocRed]

HOLY COW what a KNOT! Gotta take BP out

[redsfan30]

Guys I have been one of the more optimistic posters on this site for many, many years now.

That being said...I hate this team.

The one thing I hate more? The fact that I have neither the strength nor the desire to quit them.

[Kc61]

Phillips injured himself on a foul ball off his leg.

[Reds Fanatic]

Brandon took a foul ball off his shin and his leg is really swollen

[reds700]

Oh, seriously? Well, it's been a fun and frustrating season everyone. Too bad they lost that one wildcard game and ended their season. But, according to reds700, that's what happened.

See you all in the spring!

The next big game this team wins this year will be the first and last I checked the wild card game will be a big game.

[BlackPete Ibold]

Lets just hope Dusty et al save Cueto for Tuesday. Given precedent of awful mgmt decisions, though, I am not counting on it

[DocRed]

Another bonehead move leaving BP in, chance of coming back are slim at best.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips singles to right. 1st and 2nd

[redsfan30]

That is one ugly knot on Brandon's shin!

[Kc61]

BP singles. I'd get him out of there for a pinch runner. Izturis will run. Correct move.

[Ohayou]

But this is the most frustrating Reds team I can remember.

LOL. Really now?

[Reds Fanatic]

Izturis running for Phillips

[edabbs44]

Brandon took a foul ball off his shin and his leg is really swollen

Cincinnati's Schilling.

[Matt700wlw]

Izturis in for Phillips.

[DocRed]

Can't question BP's toughness. That did not look good and I seriously question BP being ready Tuesday even.

[edabbs44]

LOL. Really, now?

He banged his head really hard in Jan 2010.

[5TimeWSChamps]

What a joke. Let someone else throw $13 mil at the junk ball pitcher. You can't resign him for what he's done in the past.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce strikes out swinging

[miamiredskin]

Have to give it up for BP there. Really gutted it out.

[Kc61]

LOL. Really now?

Some posters seem to think all is well. So yeah, it's worth saying that the frustration level with this team is off the charts.

[kbrake]

Guys I have been one of the more optimistic posters on this site for many, many years now.

That being said...I hate this team.

The one thing I hate more? The fact that I have neither the strength nor the desire to quit them.

Completely understand what you're saying. This team has just never seemed to get on a run. And all year it has been one thing after another. BP thought his 75 million dollar contract was a slap in the face. Bronson has spent the last two months talking about how he would love to play in San Francisco or New York. Ludwick complaining about the energy in the park a couple days after he left 10 guys on base. Brandon Phillips getting into it with a writer. This team has just seemed like a mess at times. Yeah I know 90 wins.

[edabbs44]

I think the book on Frazier is that he is a sucker for the low ball.

[malcontent]

Lol bronson. Atleast walt was shown on tv so maybe he's out of his coma now.
He made it back from his cruise?!?

[DocRed]

Need to get at least a run here.

[Reds Fanatic]

Frazier walks. Bases loaded for Cozart

[Matt700wlw]

Hurdle pulls Morton

[Kc61]

Completely understand what you're saying. This team has just never seemed to get on a run. And all year it has been one thing after another. BP thought his 75 million dollar contract was a slap in the face. Bronson has spent the last two months talking about how he would love to play in San Francisco or New York. Ludwick complaining about the energy in the park a couple days after he left 10 guys on base. Brandon Phillips getting into it with a writer. This team has just seemed like a mess at times. Yeah I know 90 wins.

THe problem has nothing to do with what players are saying in the press.

It's a number of positions don't hit and the bullpen has been very spotty on the road.

Some injury some subpar play. And maybe some managerial tendencies. But it's on the field.

Bases loaded, let's get some runs!

[kbrake]

Does Clint Hurdle know Morton can't qualify for the win now???!!!! What the hell is he doing??!!!

[BCubb2003]

I wonder if Arroyo is making a note right now to ask Aaron Harang about the Padres.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Hurdle is the anti-toothpick.

[redsfan30]

Completely understand what you're saying. This team has just never seemed to get on a run. And all year it has been one thing after another. BP thought his 75 million dollar contract was a slap in the face. Bronson has spent the last two months talking about how he would love to play in San Francisco or New York. Ludwick complaining about the energy in the park a couple days after he left 10 guys on base. Brandon Phillips getting into it with a writer. This team has just seemed like a mess at times. Yeah I know 90 wins.

Really goes to show just how far this franchise has come over the last few years. 10 years ago, we would be throwing a parade for this kind of season.

[toledodan]

Hey dusty that's how you take a pitcher out.

[Kc61]

Really goes to show just how far this franchise has come over the last few years. 10 years ago, we would be throwing a parade for this kind of season.

Point being that fans should be satisfied?

I don't root for sports teams to be fifth best in the league and get a road wild card. Sorry.

[kbrake]

Point being that fans should be satisfied?

I don't root for sports teams to be fifth best in the league and get a road wild card. Sorry.

Could be wrong but I think he was just saying expectations have changed not that it makes this any less frustrating.

[Reds Fanatic]

Mazzaro in to pitch

[malcontent]

Hurdle pulls Morton
But he hasn't even given up the lead, yet!

[DocRed]

Of course....

[1940757690]

Cincinnati's Schilling.

High socks. Still bloody.

[5TimeWSChamps]

Heck of an atbat by Cozart. Way to make solid contact

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart strikes out swinging

[kbrake]

Anyone else think Hurdle would PH here?

[BluegrassRedleg]

Wonderful AB, Cozy.

[DocRed]

Letting Hanigan bat? hmmm

[reds700]

Now that was a playoff quality AB....wow

[Tom Servo]

i wanna die

[kbrake]

Can't wait to see the urgency Tuesday.

[xsteve1]

Anyone else think Hurdle would PH here?

Hurdle has a better bench to work with.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan flies out to center. 6-3 Pirates after 5.

[5TimeWSChamps]

LOL @ this bench. What a joke. Bases Loaded, 1 out, no runs. YOUR 2013 CINCINNATI REDS!

[1940757690]

Point being that fans should be satisfied?

I don't root for sports teams to be fifth best in the league and get a road wild card. Sorry.

I root for teams to win when it matters. Tuesday will matter. If they win, I'll be ecstatic. Then LDS. And so on. This team has had a very good year and all that offers is an opportunity. I hope they make the most of that when it matters.

Won't be today. Bases left jacked with the long flyout to right-center.

[kbrake]

Hurdle has a better bench to work with.

Please. Just about anyone on that bench would have been a better option than Hanigan.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Bases-loaded fail #999 on the season.

[NebraskaRed]

I would strongly recommend some of you go outside and enjoy the rest of your day. Maybe go for a walk.

Or you can keep posting about how horrible this team is, how you hate them, how nearly everyone on the team is a joke, and how the manager is history's greatest monster.

Your call.

[BCubb2003]

Charlie Morton picked a good day to have a bad day.

[TheBigLebowski]

Enough. I'll see you Tuesday. This has ruined my weekend.

[kbrake]

I would strongly recommend some of you go outside and enjoy the rest of your day. Maybe go for a walk.

Or you can keep posting about how horrible this team is, how you hate them, how nearly everyone on the team is a joke, and how the manager is history's greatest monster.

Your call.

I understand the freaking out was annoying in May but these games matter. Some of us were hoping to get to go to the WC and this team has looked pathetic this week. People that are on a message board probably care a little too much to begin with. They're probably not going to be extremely joyful right now.

[toledodan]

I would strongly recommend some of you go outside and enjoy the rest of your day. Maybe go for a walk.

Or you can keep posting about how horrible this team is, how you hate them, how nearly everyone on the team is a joke, and how the manager is history's greatest monster.

Your call.

Or you can continue to think all is fine. Your call.

[Reds Fanatic]

That is going to be a depressing show. Reds this weekend are going to be shown on Mission October on Monday

[redsfan30]

Point being that fans should be satisfied?

I don't root for sports teams to be fifth best in the league and get a road wild card. Sorry.

Nope. Just pointing out how much the expectations have changed.

[Billy Hamilton's Legs]

I would strongly recommend some of you go outside and enjoy the rest of your day. Maybe go for a walk.

Or you can keep posting about how horrible this team is, how you hate them, how nearly everyone on the team is a joke, and how the manager is history's greatest monster.

Your call.

People should be allowed to express frustration. The Reds have tanked it over the last two series and are on the verge of giving up two straight the pirates at home leaving the whole season to depend on getting a win on the road in Pittsburgh facing one of the toughest left handers in baseball. People should be upset about how this team has played recently.

[Ohayou]

Some posters seem to think all is well. So yeah, it's worth saying that the frustration level with this team is off the charts.

You're seriously going to skip over an entire decade of losing seasons and then tell me this is the most frustrating team of your lifetime?

Give me a break, man.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes strikes out swinging

[Kc61]

I root for teams to win when it matters. Tuesday will matter. If they win, I'll be ecstatic. Then LDS. And so on. This team has had a very good year and all that offers is an opportunity. I hope they make the most of that when it matters.

Won't be today. Bases left jacked with the long flyout to right-center.

Home field doesn't matter? Disagree.

Reds have had a "very good year." Disagree.

[malcontent]

Letting Hanigan bat? hmmm
2012 NLDS Game 5: Baker PH Heisey vs. Cain. Saves Paul for Affeldt.

[redsfan30]

Unreal.

[Reds Fanatic]

Unreal another homer. 7-3 Pirates