Reds vs. Rays 4-12-2014

[mu4103]

6959

vs. Alex Cobb (0-1, 3.00 ERA)

Votto is batting second today for the first time since 8/8/08 vs. Houston.

[NebraskaRed]

My searching skills are failing me. When was the last time Votto batted second?

[kbrake]

Don't see the point in flipping Votto and BP. If you want to hit Votto 2 Bruce should be hitting 3. Especially against a RHP.

[lollipopcurve]

Offense is sputtering, so shake things up. I like the flexibility/creativity.

[mu4103]

My searching skills are failing me. When was the last time Votto batted second?

See the heading 8-8-08

[Reds Fanatic]

Tampa Bay Lineup:

David DeJesus LF
Ben Zobrist 2B
Matt Joyce RF
Evan Longoria 3B
James Loney 1B
Kevin Kiermaier CF
Yunel Escobar SS
Ryan Hanigan C
Alex Cobb P

[RedsLvr]

I'm just glad to see cozart in the 8 hole

[Stray]

I like that Price is trying something to get the offense going. It's not like he could make it worse...well unless we start scoring those rare negative runs.

[powersackers]

As long as we only have to beat a mlb team today and not the umps I'll be happy

[traderumor]

So will Votto be asked to "move the runner along" if Hamilton gets a double ahead of him?

All sarcasm aside, Votto behind Hamilton will force the opponent to choose their poison if he gets on ahead of Joey, maybe he'll see a few more meatball strikes.

[757690]

http://www.cincinnati.com/videos/sports/mlb/reds/2014/04/12/7637003/

Price says main reason was to shake things up, an attempt at "newness."

[Kc61]

I like the change and the attempt to jump start the offense. I think Votto will be great when BH gets on. But hitters 4 through 9 have to produce most of them haven't lately.

[RollyInRaleigh]

I think it's a great move.

[Tom Servo]

Reds win this one.

[Raisor]

Zero problem with Votto there. Still rather have Phillips leading off

[DocRed]

Kudos to Price....

- - - Updated - - -

I like the flipping of Frazier and Ludwick too...

[Tornon]

Now Pena is in the lineup instead of Mesoraco, hopefully nothing is wrong

[Lewdog]

Votto in the second slot means if Hamilton gets on base, he'll see more pitches to try and steal on and hopefully manufacture some runs.

[Wheelhouse]

Day after night game. Standard op.

[Tony Cloninger]

I think it's a great move.

I second this motion!

[NebraskaRed]

Joel Luckhaupt ‏@jluckhaupt 27s
First pitch thrown by kid sails across the left-hand batters box. Last night's ump calls it a strike.

:laugh:

[Tornon]

Day after night game. Standard op.

The part that had me worried was that Mesoraco was in the initial lineup posted

[redsfaninbsg]

Reds need a win today in the worst way. It can only be a slow start for so long before it becomes who you are.

[Lewdog]

The Wind is blowing in the Votto homerun gap.

[Tom Servo]

Simon not exactly pumping in the strikes so far.

[RedWilly]

Joyce's 'stache looks disgusting

[Tom Servo]

Great recovery by Fredo, gets Joyce and Longoria to strike out swinging to end the frame.

[757690]

@ctrent: FYI, umps Tim Welke & Jim Reynolds are at a funeral today. Replaced by Clint ***en (HP) & Anthony Johnson (3B) today only. #Reds #Rays

@ctrent: It is the first Major League game for third-base umpire Anthony Johnson #Reds #Rays

[Tom Servo]

Cobb made Reds batters look silly in the first.

[RedWilly]

The differences in approaches from Votto to Phillips has to be as extreme as any back to back hitters in baseball

[TSJ55]

Always an interesting matchup when I've got a fantasy pitcher facing the Reds.

[Tom Servo]

Loney crushes that one. 1-0 Rays.

[Lewdog]

That wouldn't have been out of most parks.

[redsfaninbsg]

I'm beginning to become disgruntled.

[Larkin Fan]

Loney crushes that one. 1-0 Rays.

Help us. Please...

[Larkin Fan]

That wouldn't have been out of most parks.

Last time I checked, it still counts and we're still down by one.

[Raisor]

I know it was you Fredo, you broke my heart.

[Lewdog]

Last time I checked, it still counts and we're still down by one.

I was quoting Major League.

[Tom Servo]

Simon hanging too many breaking balls over the middle as Escobar hammers a double

[kbrake]

Everything up in the zone. And I know he didn't catch it but Hamilton can really cover some ground.

[Larkin Fan]

It's weird seeing Hani in a non-Reds uni.

[Wonderful Monds]

Simon is not really a starting pitcher.

[Gallen5862]

Can anyone do PBP? How did the Reds get out in first inning? Thanks

[kbrake]

Can anyone do PBP? How did the Reds get out in first inning? Thanks

Hamilton and Votto struck out swinging. BP first pitch pop out in foul territory.

[kaldaniels]

Only because the Rays are in town I float this, but maybe the Reds should look at the Shields/Myers deal as a blueprint for what to do with either Latos or Cueto. Just thinking aloud.

[Lewdog]

Bruce strikes out at ball 4.

[Tom Servo]

Frazier smokes the first pitch right back to Cobb.

Ludwick grounds out to short.

1-0 Tampa after 2

[Larkin Fan]

Gonna be a long game...

[Gallen5862]

Thanks for the updates.

[HokieRed]

Not thrilled by the move of Votto to number 2. I can see the need to do something but taking the one player who is vastly better than the rest of your personnel and moving him out of the most important spot in the order does not seem to me to be the thing to do.

[Raisor]

Can anyone do PBP? How did the Reds get out in first inning? Thanks

By the tone of Marty's voice it was due to a lack of moral fiber.

[Tom Servo]

Nice and easy 1-2-3 frame for Simon in the 3rd.

[Larkin Fan]

Nice inning by Simon. 1-2-3

[kaldaniels]

Stretching Simon out during the spring has worked out brilliantly so far. I suspect past regimes would have run Jeff Francis out there.

[kbrake]

That splitter from Cobb is nasty.

[Tom Servo]

Cozart with a hit! A double! :eek:

[Raisor]

Cozart is on fire...for him.

[Larkin Fan]

I can't believe what I just saw. A double for Cozart?

- - - Updated - - -


That splitter from Cobb is nasty.

So nasty that the opposition wishes it were illegal.

[VottoFan54]

Not thrilled by the move of Votto to number 2. I can see the need to do something but taking the one player who is vastly better than the rest of your personnel and moving him out of the most important spot in the order does not seem to me to be the thing to do.

The two spot is arguably more important than the three.

http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by


The old-school book says to put a bat-control guy here. Not a great hitter, but someone who can move the lead-off hitter over for one of the next two hitters to drive in.

The Books says the #2 hitter comes to bat in situations about as important as the #3 hitter, but more often. That means the #2 hitter should be better than the #3 guy, and one of the best three hitters overall. And since he bats with the bases empty more often than the hitters behind him, he should be a high-OBP player. Doesn't sound like someone who should be sacrificing, does it?

[Wonderful Monds]

Thom actually said a smart thing about bunting. Hmmmm.

- - - Updated - - -


Cozart is on fire...for him.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=4-yOqx-6G7Y

[Tom Servo]

Simon having probably the best AB of any Reds so far. :laugh:

[kbrake]

First time through the order and Alfredo Simon putting together the most complete AB.

[Wonderful Monds]

Simon having probably the best AB of any Reds so far. :laugh:

Staying alive.

Too bad Chapman isn't available to pinch hit.

[Raisor]

I got passed over by my kid brother.

Fredo.

[PepperJack]

Great AB from Simon.

[Cedric]

Simon and Leake professional hitters compared to most Reds

[BluegrassRedleg]

Best AB ever by a (typically) middle reliever?

[Wonderful Monds]

Great AB, moves him over.


But the 9 and 1 spots are death in this lineup for getting a runner in.

[Larkin Fan]

Impressive AB by Simon.

[Wonderful Monds]

Best AB ever by a (typically) middle reliever?

Chappy nearly went deep last year.

[Tom Servo]

Not feeling too good about Billy doing anything today.

[Raisor]

Not feeling too good about Billy doing anything today.

I'm not a psychiatrist and I don't care about your feelings. Man up buttercup.

;)

[Raisor]

Every time I said a Hail Mary I caught a fish.

Fredo

[Tom Servo]

Longoria flies out to shallow right
Great snag by Votto to rob Loney
BP with a similar snag to rob Kiermaier

[BluegrassRedleg]

Chappy nearly went deep last year.

Talking the whole AB, not just one swing. Guy needs to give Cozart some pointers. :)

[BluegrassRedleg]

Ha. Thank you, wind. :)

Votto will take it. Nice lead-off double.

[Tom Servo]

Wind assisted double for Votto :laugh:

[NebraskaRed]

Votto controls the wind.

[Wonderful Monds]

So Votto himself says that Hamilton protects him in the lineup. Hmm. Hmmmmm.

Also, the wind throws Joey a hard slider for a ground rule double.

[Larkin Fan]

That was some serious defense on the right side of the infield. Great plays by Votto and Phillips.

Loved the look on DeJesus' face on that fly ball for Votto's double.

[Wonderful Monds]

lol

[BluegrassRedleg]

Good grief. What was Smith looking at there???

[Tom Servo]

Dumb decision to send Votto from second, thrown out by a mile at home.

[DocRed]

Wow Votto is not fast "/

[Larkin Fan]

Why in the world did they send him?

[Tadasimha]

Votto isn't that fast, coach.

Easy out

[BluegrassRedleg]

Ball was fielded before Votto even reached third base. Wow.

[Hillsdale87]

WHY?!?! No outs... No need to be that aggressive

[Red Raindog]

Dumb decision to send Votto from second, thrown out by a mile at home.

wow -- 3B coaching must be REALLY hard

[Larkin Fan]

Good grief. What was Smith looking at there???

I think he is legally blind.

[kbrake]

Every single thing with this team seems so difficult.

[Tom Servo]

lmao good god

[BluegrassRedleg]

Cue "Yakety Sax."

[Wonderful Monds]

Are you @&$&#% kidding me?

What the hell are you doing Brandon?

[Tom Servo]

He looked safe on replay. Challenge!

[Larkin Fan]

Lots of stupid decisions this inning.

[kbrake]

Brandon Phillips was my biggest fear when I heard Price wanted to be more aggressive on the base paths.

[DocRed]

Do our choaches realize that everyone on this team not named Hamilton is slow?

[Tadasimha]

He hit the ground than the arm - think he was safe

[Lewdog]

How did Price not challenge that? It should have been Phillips on third with one out.

[NebraskaRed]

Sometimes boos are warranted.

[BluegrassRedleg]

He hit the ground than the arm - think he was safe

I think he was, too, but that's one of those semi-automatic calls where the ball beats the runner by so much that it's a done deal in the ump's mind.

[NebraskaRed]

ctrent ‏@ctrent 43s
Inning in a nutshell: Joey Votto isn’t as fast as Steve Smith thinks he is & Brandon Phillips isn’t as fast as Brandon Phillips thinks he is

[RedsLvr]

He loose safe from the angles shown.

[Wonderful Monds]

Brandon Phillips was my biggest fear when I heard Price wanted to be more aggressive on the base paths.

Yeah, the biggest me-first guy on the team, he needs to have the stop sign and only steal when he gets the go ahead, otherwise he'll be doing that crap all year.

[Hillsdale87]

I feel like that inning could have gone better...

[Tadasimha]

I think he was, too, but that's one of those semi-automatic calls where the ball beats the runner by so much that it's a done deal in the ump's mind.

Hopefully the use of replay will change that over time. I'd like to see the "neighborhood" out at second done away with.

[Wonderful Monds]

ctrent ‏@ctrent 43s
Inning in a nutshell: Joey Votto isn’t as fast as Steve Smith thinks he is & Brandon Phillips isn’t as fast as Brandon Phillips thinks he is
Brandon Phillips isn't anything as much as he thinks he is.

Can't wait for the temper tantrum thrown in response to this, too.

[Cedric]

Let's not pretend Votto is a guarantee to score from 3b with nobody out.

[Crumbley]

Bad News Bears.

[Ohayou]

ctrent ‏@ctrent 43s
Inning in a nutshell: Joey Votto isn’t as fast as Steve Smith thinks he is & Brandon Phillips isn’t as fast as Brandon Phillips thinks he is

I wish Joey Votto was as fast as Steve Smith...

[NebraskaRed]

I like Alfredo sauce

[Raisor]

Yeah, the biggest me-first guy on the team, he needs to have the stop sign and only steal when he gets the go ahead, otherwise he'll be doing that crap all year.
Do we know that he didn't have the steal sign?

[BluegrassRedleg]

Brandon Phillips isn't anything as much as he thinks he is.

Can't wait for the temper tantrum thrown in response to this, too.

Ctrent isn't as clever as he thinks he is, either.

[Tom Servo]

Fredo mowing them down.

[Tadasimha]

Ohayou - is your avator a Lego Corky Miller?

[Red Raindog]

Has anybody here ever been water boarded?

If so -- can you explain the difference between watching this and that?

[Raisor]

Fredo mowing them down.

He want a good bodyguard for his father.

[NebraskaRed]

I hope Simon works a 35 pitch AB next time he's up.

[Tom Servo]

Damnit Thom stop making me sympathize with a guy I want to see the Reds destroy.

[Tadasimha]

Price really needs to break up the righties. ;)

[Kc61]

So I see Reds have a new way to try and win without hitting. Everybody runs constantly and aggressively on the basepaths.

Walt, wouldn't it have been easier to add a couple of hitters to the lineup when Choo departed?

[Tony Cloninger]

Simon is not really a starting pitcher.

Not the ideal replacement but as a #5.....what would be the issue? He did great his first start and only had 1 bad inning, or batters...so far today.

Hopefully he doe snot have to do this that much longer.

[Tom Servo]

Reds go 1-2-3 in the 5th.

Still 1-0 Tampa after 5.

[Ohayou]

Ohayou - is your avator a Lego Corky Miller?

I'd like to think so.

[Tony Cloninger]

So I see Reds have a new way to try and win without hitting. Everybody runs constantly and aggressively on the basepaths.

Walt, wouldn't it have been easier to add a couple of hitters to the lineup when Choo departed?

What I do not get is that Price said he would see who could or could not run, so why is he allowing BP to run?

That 3B coach brings back bad memories of years gone past decisions that left us calling for a new 3B coach ASAP.

[malcontent]

Brandon Phillips was my biggest fear when I heard Price wanted to be more aggressive on the base paths.
How is it that Price didn't know what would probably happen?

[DocRed]

Great pitching...anemic hitting. Rinse, repeat...

[Kc61]

What I do not get is that Price said he would see who could or could not run, so why is he allowing BP to run?

That 3B coach brings back bad memories of years gone past decisions that left us calling for a new 3B coach ASAP.

I think, maybe in 2009 or so, somebody in the Reds' organization said Philips is fast. So the Reds think Phillips is fast.

[redsfaninbsg]

If the Reds lose today, it will be a pretty painful April loss. Given the team's current record, the poor coaching, managing, anemic hitting, etc. This really sucks.

[Kc61]

The funny part about this, if there is one, is that the Reds really can't blame this on the injuries. The injured are mostly pitchers, and the hurlers are doing pretty well.

The only batters on the DL and Schumaker and Hannahan.

[SteelSD]

I think, maybe in 2009 or so, somebody in the Reds' organization said Philips is fast. So the Reds think Phillips is fast.

Apparently , Phillips was attempting to "move the runner" over again. May have worked better had he not BEEN the runner....

[Kc61]

If the Reds lose a few more like this, they should go out and sign Stephen Drew. It'll cost money, I know. So save the money by trading Latos after he establishes his health, the Reds can't sign all these pitchers anyway.

Just go out and get a couple of hitters and give up on some of these home grown guys who do not hit. Stop telling us they will turn things around and go out and get a couple of hitters.

[NebraskaRed]

6961

[BluegrassRedleg]

For two-plus years now, they've had the best starting pitching that most of us have seen in our lifetimes. To put this kind of offense on the field is very disheartening.

[Kc61]

Reds are still in this game. TB hasn't scored two yet.

[powersackers]

There is a reason this team is last out of 30 teams in w-l. Bad decisions, bad at bats, bad baserunning. Bad/unhealthy bullpen. We just Suck for so many reasons.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Hitting Cozart with a pitch, at this point, may be the worst thing a major league pitcher could ever do.

[NebraskaRed]

Cozart on base for the second time today

[757690]

Cozart boosting that OBP

[Kc61]

For two-plus years now, they've had the best starting pitching that most of us have seen in our lifetimes. To put this kind of offense on the field is very disheartening.

And half of the Reds fans in the world, if not more, saw this coming all off-season. So it's not like it was some big secret that the offense was a problem. Walt admitted it various ways himself. But the FO was just stuck in neutral for whatever reason.

[Larkin Fan]

Hitting Cozart with a pitch, at this point, may be the worst thing a major league pitcher could ever do.

We'll take it!

[redsfaninbsg]

If they don't score this inning.........

[Kc61]

Reds with a man in scoring position, no outs. Rays have them just where they want them.

Nice bunt Alfredo. Billy - contact please.

[redsfaninbsg]

I'm starting to become a big fan of Alfredo Simon.

[Larkin Fan]

Simon is doing all the little things.

[RedsBrick]

If the Reds lose today, it will be a pretty painful April loss. Given the team's current record, the poor coaching, managing, anemic hitting, etc. This really sucks.

I guess I don't understand how it's been poor coaching and managing. Anemic hitting? Yes. The other stuff, not sure about.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Jesus, Mary & Joseph...

[NebraskaRed]

Wait, why didn't Cozart try to make it home on Simon's sac bunt?

[Raisor]

If they don't score this inning.........

.....maybe they will the next inning.

[redsfaninbsg]

This is sickening. Please Votto save us from this putrid offense.

[Larkin Fan]

Hamilton forgot not everyone can score on routine pop outs like him.

[jojo]

It's awful tough to see a major leaguer in Hamilton at the moment.

[757690]

A perfect spot to prove Votto betting second was a smart move.

Nevermind.

[redsfaninbsg]

I guess I don't understand how it's been poor coaching and managing. Anemic hitting? Yes. The other stuff, not sure about.

Sending Votto with nobody out was moronic, a little league coach doesn't do that. Stealing Phillips was a stupid managerial move.

[Raisor]

This is sickening. Please Votto save us from this putrid offense.

Don't have a stroke.

- - - Updated - - -


Sending Votto with nobody else was moronic, a little league coach doesn't do that. Stealing Phillips was a stupid managerial move.

Do we know BP didn't go on his own?

[malcontent]

That was right down the middle for Votto.

At least he didn't take a second called strike to set himself up for the change-up like he did in the first.

[Wonderful Monds]

It's awful tough to see a major leaguer in Hamilton at the moment.

Never thought I would be thinking this when he was signed, but I CANNOT WAIT for Schumaker to get back.

[Kc61]

I'd like to bring back my Hamilton thread. I understand why he is a Red. But why does he play every single day?

Facing Price and Cobb, both games, and leading off is obviously not the way to use this kid right now.

[KYExtemper]

If Hamilton doesn't start hitting the ball on the ground send his ass back to AAA. Seriously, a guy with his speed should NOT be popping the ball up.

This lack of offensive output is going to send me to an early grave. I'd be pulling my hair out if I were a pitcher on this team. No run support for our starters, who haven't given up all that many runs this year. The only one who has nothing to complain about is Homer Bailey.

[jojo]

Baseball is a funny game. The rays only have 1 more hit than the Reds but it feels like they're invincible.

Baseball can turn on a dime so this game can turn on a penny... We might be turning the game off in the 8th because the Reds are up by 7.

[Tony Cloninger]

How is it that Price didn't know what would probably happen?


I seriously think BP is trying to test the new manager. I have said this already ...he is like Chad was. Great fun guy who could do things on the field that many could not...but when things turned bad, he would turn on others. I do not trust this guy and I see him as no leader on this team.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I know people are pissed...but lets not overlook what this pitching staff is doing.

[malcontent]

Simon is a quality starter. This is no mirage.

[Larkin Fan]

.....maybe they will the next inning.


Or perhaps even an inning sometime next week.

[Tom Servo]

Nice snow cone job by Cozart.

[Raisor]

On the plus side the ice cream man is driving in our neighborhood

[Wonderful Monds]

If the Reds lose a few more like this, they should go out and sign Stephen Drew. It'll cost money, I know. So save the money by trading Latos after he establishes his health, the Reds can't sign all these pitchers anyway.

Just go out and get a couple of hitters and give up on some of these home grown guys who do not hit. Stop telling us they will turn things around and go out and get a couple of hitters.
I agree they should get Drew, but I wish for nothing more than for this "trade Latos" meme I've seen bubbling up today to die before it begins.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Cozy! Nice snag

[RedsBrick]

Sending Votto with nobody out was moronic, a little league coach doesn't do that. Stealing Phillips was a stupid managerial move.

Not watching the game...I thought you were speaking in generalities, so I can't comment on this particular game.

Overall, I see a guy trying to do everything he can to get a spark from this team...trying different things, making adjustments from game to game.

Like when guys don't block and tackle in football, you're not going to win. In baseball it happens to be hitting. This team isn't very good at it right now.

[DocRed]

Wow...all 4 infielders have made great plays today. Simon has pitched great.....if we could only find some hitting. *sigh*

[Wonderful Monds]

Or perhaps even an inning sometime next week.

The Reds could quite possibly score a run by the end of the season.

[jojo]

If Hamilton doesn't start hitting the ball on the ground send his ass back to AAA. Seriously, a guy with his speed should NOT be popping the ball up.

This lack of offensive output is going to send me to an early grave. I'd be pulling my hair out if I were a pitcher on this team. No run support for our starters, who haven't given up all that many runs this year. The only one who has nothing to complain about is Homer Bailey.

That's one reason why Ichiro beat dead horses into the ground despite having the potential to probably average 15-20 HRs.

[Kc61]

Thom and Welsh say hard to see that Reds finished third in runs last year. Well, they say, bats will have to pick up soon.
Teams get hot and cold. Reds facing very good pitching.

I'm waiting for a mention of Choo being absent and no replacement hitter acquired. Oops, must have missed that part of the discussion.

[Tom Servo]

The Rockies pitching sucks. The Rockies hitting is good. Perhaps we can work out some sort of deal with them.

[jojo]

Defense. Defense. Defense.

[Wonderful Monds]

Don't have a stroke.

- - - Updated - - -



Do we know BP didn't go on his own?

I guess we can't know for sure, but those kind of overly aggressive and unnecessary base running decisions are classic BP.

[_Sir_Charles_]

That inning was a thing of beauty. :clap: Keep it rollin. Now let's get that man some support.

[KYExtemper]

I know people are pissed...but lets not overlook what this pitching staff is doing.

I agree. I have no complaints about our starting pitchers except for Bailey, but he always struggles against the Cards so I've just accepted it at this point. If anything, I feel awful for these guys that they aren't getting any offensive output. We're wasting these guys right now.

[Wonderful Monds]

The Rockies pitching sucks. The Rockies hitting is good. Perhaps we can work out some sort of deal with them.
Trade Simon for Tulowitzki.

[Larkin Fan]

I know people are pissed...but lets not overlook what this pitching staff is doing.

You're right. But I think that also what contributes to the frustration. Day after day, the pitching is great but get no support from their offensive counterparts. It has to be disheartening.

[malcontent]

Sending Votto with nobody out was moronic, a little league coach doesn't do that.
I was so relieved when they got Smith and moved Berry off the field.

[NebraskaRed]

6962

[Tony Cloninger]

That's one reason why Ichiro beat dead horses into the ground despite having the potential to probably average 15-20 HRs.

Hamilton should be ax chopping the ball into the ground.... with his speed.... he could beat out just about anything hit slow to the left or right.

Easier said than done ...but I don't know what else he can do right now.

[jojo]

Lots of people in the park...... I bet not a single one of them has reminisced about the snow.

[RedsfaninMT]

Thom and Welsh say hard to see that Reds finished third in runs last year. Well, they say, bats will have to pick up soon.
Teams get hot and cold. Reds facing very good pitching.

I'm waiting for a mention of Choo being absent and no replacement hitter acquired. Oops, must have missed that part of the discussion.

Okay, Ill take Bruce to hit over .162, Cozart to hit over .067...in fact, I expect every single player in this lineup to finish with a better average than they have right now other than BP

[KYExtemper]

This lack of offensive output is like the mirror opposite of the teams we had a decade ago. I remember scoring 9 runs a game and still losing 11-9 or 10-9. Now we're locked in one run games and can't score.

[Kc61]

I agree they should get Drew, but I wish for nothing more than for this "trade Latos" meme I've seen bubbling up today to die before it begins.

Reds apparently don't have the money to add a hitter. So presumably they will have to shed somebody's salary. So I threw out Latos' name, but it could be somebody else.

More likely the Reds will blame injuries and say that Cozart really isn't that bad a hitter, just off to a bad start.

[_Sir_Charles_]

The Rockies pitching sucks. The Rockies hitting is good. Perhaps we can work out some sort of deal with them.

Weakening the pitching staff is NOT the solution.

[Raisor]

In April 2012 the reds had a team OPS of 687

[Crumbley]

Simon establishing himself as one of my favorite Reds.

[powersackers]

I need a blood pressure monitor. This is unhealthy to watch.

[Tom Servo]

Cobb may manage a CG in under 100 pitches.

[malcontent]

Bruce refuses to bunt against the shift, even against a guy that's owning him.

Not. Smart. Baseball. Players.

[jojo]

Guys and dolls, it's a gorgeous spring day, the park is nigh full, and baseball is being played. On days like today, the minutia really doesn't matter. Just lean back enjoy the sun bathing your skin, the gentle breeze wafting your hair and maybe we'll be treated to a walk off something or other.

This is living.

[Raisor]

Bruce refuses to bunt against the shift, even against a guy that's owning him.

Not. Smart. Baseball. Players.

Is it Bruce or is it Price?

[Kc61]

Weakening the pitching staff is NOT the solution.

What weakening? Simon is doing well as a starter. Stephenson is at AA and should soon be ready.

Or is this one of those "run prevention" ideas, that preventing runs is the complete answer.

Make a trade. They can't sign all these pitchers anyway.

[KYExtemper]

Is it Bruce or is it Price?

No idea, but whoever is being stubborn against the shift needs to stop it. The only way to keep defenses honest in this shift era is to just take advantage of what they give you. I'll take the easy base runner every single time.

[jojo]

A HIT!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Guys and dolls, it's a gorgeous spring day, the park is nigh full, and baseball is being played. On days like today, the minutia really doesn't matter. Just lean back enjoy the sun bathing your skin, the gentle breeze wafting your hair and maybe we'll be treated to a walk off something or other.

This is living.

Well said jojo. Before complaining about 1-0 game, think back to december. :O)

[Gallen5862]

Who is up to bat? Who got the hit?

[Tom Servo]

What weakening? Simon is doing well as a starter. Stephenson is at AA and should soon be ready.

Or is this one of those "run prevention" ideas, that preventing runs is the complete answer.

Make a trade. They can't sign all these pitchers anyway.
David Holmberg in AAA as well.

[texasdave]

It's nice knowing you that if you have to run errands and can't get back home until the 7th inning, that you probably haven't missed anything with these bats. I appreciate them waiting on me.

Just looking for something positive.

[Kc61]

Well said jojo. Before complaining about 1-0 game, think back to december. :O)

Isn't there a separate weather forum?

[Tom Servo]

Who is up to bat? Who got the hit?
Frazier with a two out hit. Ludwick smokes one to third and Longoria snags it and fires to second to end the inning.

[jojo]

Lots of great defensive play today.

[Gallen5862]

Thanks Tom Servo.

[jojo]

Isn't there a separate weather forum?

The weather is a lot like game threads.... everyone is complaining but no one is doing anything to fix the problem....

[malcontent]

Is it Bruce or is it Price?
I guess Price isn't pushing him to challenge the shift, but it's up to Bruce.

[_Sir_Charles_]

What weakening? Simon is doing well as a starter. Stephenson is at AA and should soon be ready.

Or is this one of those "run prevention" ideas, that preventing runs is the complete answer.

Make a trade. They can't sign all these pitchers anyway.

Latos is still out. Stephenson is in AA...not AAA. He "may" be ready soon, but shouldn't we see how he fares against AAA hitting FIRST?!? Deal away a starter...who's filling the void? What hitter do we bring in? What hitter do we cut bait with? Why cut bait with that hitter when he's at a low point and could easily bounce back.

My point is that it's crappy timing that we've got so many guys struggling at the same time. Give them time. Bruce, Votto and the rest are NOT going to stay hitting around the .200 mark. Making a panic move right now is the wrong move IMO.

[Raisor]

Thanks Tom Servo.

Crow T. Robot is funnier.

[jojo]

The Reds had better get going, they are losing 140 to 40 with only two innings left.

[Raisor]

I guess Price isn't pushing him to challenge the shift, but it's up to Bruce.

Not if price wants him to swing away.

[kbrake]

I'm not sure I want Bruce bunting for a single when it is a 1-0 game. He is the most likely guy to get a hold of one and tie it in a hurry. If I were the Rays I think I would gladly take the best power hitter bunting late in a one run game.

[_Sir_Charles_]

David Holmberg in AAA as well.

Yes he is. He's basically in the same boat as Stephenson. He's logged all of 5 innings above AA. Did we learn nothing from rushing Homer Bailey? Coddle thy pitchers.

[Tom Servo]

Forsythe killed us when he was with San Diego as I recall, so a leadoff double is fitting.

[jojo]

Madden is a MAN. No giving away outs with sissy bunts.

[Tom Servo]

Big spot here. 2 out, runner on 3rd, Joyce up.

[Tom Servo]

Struck him out!

8 innings, 1 run by Simon! :beerme:

[_Sir_Charles_]

DEALIN'!

Say what you guys want, but I could watch baseball like this EVERY SINGLE DAY! Great pitching, great defense, tight game. LOVE IT!

[KYExtemper]

Helluva strikeout by Simon. Awesome pitching from him today.

[HokieRed]

Can't ask any more from Simon.

[RedTeamGo!]

This offense is offensive

Alfredo Simon has been excellent, doesn't deserve a loss.

[jojo]

Lots of action in that inning including a great play where Phillips caught a ball despite being on one knee. The Rays tacked on another 10 pts and lead 150 to 40 going into the second part of the 8th.

[Red Raindog]

Simon

we are :notworthy::notworthy:

[757690]

McGee is going to be tough to score on,

[jojo]

Dang the Rays have a lefty who can throw 98. Walt should find one of those for our pen.

[Kc61]

Latos is still out. Stephenson is in AA...not AAA. He "may" be ready soon, but shouldn't we see how he fares against AAA hitting FIRST?!? Deal away a starter...who's filling the void? What hitter do we bring in? What hitter do we cut bait with? Why cut bait with that hitter when he's at a low point and could easily bounce back.

My point is that it's crappy timing that we've got so many guys struggling at the same time. Give them time. Bruce, Votto and the rest are NOT going to stay hitting around the .200 mark. Making a panic move right now is the wrong move IMO.

I have no interest in giving them time. None. Reds have had several years to embrace excellence. As far as I'm concerned, they are out of time if they don't act now.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I have no interest in giving them time. None.

Well crap then. Let's deal Votto. He's not hitting and he's probably got some value.

Seriously though. Who SHOULD we deal? What starting pitcher are you ready to cut bait with? And who do you replace him with? What hitter do you target? Who does HE replace in the lineup? Complaining is easy Kc.

[jojo]

I have no interest in giving them time. None. Reds have had several years to embrace excellence. As far as I'm concerned, they are out of time if they don't act now.

If you give them money & time, you're dating.

[Tom Servo]

Swinging at a 3-1 pitch in on your knuckles.

Good thinking.

[RedTeamGo!]

If you give them money & time, you're dating.

Have you been drinking?

[HokieRed]

He's never had any concept of the walk.

[jojo]

After 8 frames, the Rays still lead 150 to 40.

[757690]

I known it's early, but is getting flashbacks to the early '80's Reds.

[malcontent]

This offense is offensive

Alfredo Simon has been excellent, doesn't deserve a loss.
Steve Smith deserves the loss. Give Phillips an assist.

[Tom Servo]

Handy Manny in.

[Red Raindog]

DEALIN'!

Say what you guys want, but I could watch baseball like this EVERY SINGLE DAY! Great pitching, great defense, tight game. LOVE IT!

I'm giving you credit that base running did not meet your expectations

[Tom Servo]

All dis pitching.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I'm giving you credit that base running did not meet your expectations

LOL. The sad part is that they send the 2 guys who have no business trying to stretch ANYTHING. Votto & Phillips may very well be our worst two runners on the club. And that's saying something with our catchers.

[redsfaninbsg]

If the Reds ever won a game by 5 or 6 runs, I'm not sure I could contain my excitement. This is unreal and in a hitter's park to boot, one good offensive day out of five at home so far and three outs away from a 1-4 home record.

[jojo]

Longoria asks the umpire if he knows of any good sushi bars near the stadium before walking back to the dugout.

[Kc61]

Well crap then. Let's deal Votto. He's not hitting and he's probably got some value.

No, that wouldn't be smart. Dealing one of two real hitters on the team wouldn't be wise.

But the team does have a lot of pitching, can't afford to keep it all, has younger cheaper replacements. Latos if healthy will demand Bailey type money.

Trade some pitching and get some hitting. Keep Simon in the rotation for this year. I'd guess that by late season either Holmberg, Stephenson, or Lorenzen can also contribute. Chapman will help fortify the pen.

Or Reds can continue to sit still.

I guess I think sitting still is a bad idea.

[Tom Servo]

Great appearance by Parra.

Reds down to their final 3 outs to try and prevent losing a fourth straight series in the first two games.

[kbrake]

We gonna walk this off.

[_Sir_Charles_]

WOW. Just wow!

[jojo]

Loney skips a rock across the pond to Votto who flips a fish to Parra who than slams the clam for an out.

[Larkin Fan]

It is imperative that Hamilton get on base this time!

[kbrake]

No, that wouldn't be smart. Dealing one of two real hitters on the team wouldn't be wise.

But the team does have a lot of pitching, can't afford to keep it all, has younger cheaper replacements. Latos if healthy will demand Bailey type money.

Trade some pitching and get some hitting. Keep Simon in the rotation for this year. I'd guess that by late season either Holmberg, Stephenson, or Lorenzen can also contribute. Chapman will help fortify the pen.

Or Reds can continue to sit still.

I guess I think sitting still is a bad idea.

I will be amazed if Latos isn't having TJ surgery within a week or so.

[jojo]

Going into the final bat for the Reds, the Rays lead 150 to 40. But Hamilton leads off and is likely to add a lot of hidden value to the Reds score.