4/21/14: Los Rojos @ Pirates

[reds44]

Hamilton
Votto
Phillips
Frazier
Bruce
Ludwick
Mesoraco
Cozart
Leake

[757690]

So it looks like Baker wasn't the only one in the Reds dugout last year who thinks Phillips is a middle of the lineup hitter.

[wheels]

What does Rocco have to do to get moved up?

[KYExtemper]

What does Rocco have to do to get moved up?

Evidently, the excuse is that they don't want to put too much pressure on him too early, but I say to hell with that. The man is a professional, so let's see if he can do some damage. He's got the hot bat right now.

[malcontent]

What does Rocco have to do to get moved up?
I'm for moving him to the 6-hole. Baby steps, I guess. But who gets moved to 7? Frazier?

BTW, it will be very interesting to see the sleet-storm if Phillips ever gets dropped below 4.

[SlimJim11]

So it looks like Baker wasn't the only one in the Reds dugout last year who thinks Phillips is a middle of the lineup hitter.

Maybe Price will figure it out in time. Or he thinks he'll lose BP if he moves him down to 6 where he belongs.

[NeilHamburger]

If you move Phillips to 6 he'll go nuts.

[757690]

If you move Phillips to 6 he'll go nuts.

Phillips has moved all over the lineup and never said anything. Off the field, it's all about DatDudeBP. On the field, he's always been a team player.

[SlimJim11]

Phillips has moved all over the lineup and never said anything. Off the field, it's all about DatDudeBP. On the field, he's always been a team player.

The last time he hit below 4th was 2006. Saying he's been moved all over isn't really the truth. He's been moved around from 1-4. Hitters aren't typically going to have a problem with hitting 1-4.

[CySeymour]

The last time he hit below 4th was 2006. Saying he's been moved all over isn't really the truth. He's been moved around from 1-4. Hitters aren't typically going to have a problem with hitting 1-4.

2007: He started 2 games hitting 5th
2010: He started 2 games hitting 6th, 1 game hitting 7th

[SlimJim11]

2007: He started 2 games hitting 5th
2010: He started 2 games hitting 6th, 1 game hitting 7th

As I said, he hits 1-4. You can nit pick that and say he's played 5 games in 7 years outside of 1-4, but that doesn't really count to me.

[Kc61]

I'm for moving him to the 6-hole. Baby steps, I guess. But who gets moved to 7? Frazier?

BTW, it will be very interesting to see the sleet-storm if Phillips ever gets dropped below 4.

Yes, Frazier. Against righties.

[757690]

As I said, he hits 1-4. You can nit pick that and say he's played 5 games in 7 years outside of 1-4, but that doesn't really count to me.

What happened when he hit #5-7? Did he lose it?

[_Sir_Charles_]

If you move Phillips to 6 he'll go nuts.

Yeah, I don't get this. Brandon's been about as flexible as they come when it comes to playing wherever the coaches want him to play. I've seen Brandon hit in every spot in the lineup. Much ado about nothing IMO.

Some people are making it sound like Phillips is demanding he hit in a certain spot or else. It's not up to him where the coaches choose to hit him.

[villain612]

Hamilton
Votto
Phillips
Frazier
Bruce
Ludwick
Mesoraco
Cozart
Leake


I could make an argument that both Rocco AND Leake should be hitting higher up.

[villain612]

Considering how bad his AVG is (.220), Jay Bruce's OBP isn't as bad as you'd think (.335). He's tied with Votto for the team lead in walks so far.
Glad to see a more patient approach. When the hits start pouring in, Mr. Bruce could be dangerous.

[VR]

Bruce is heads and shoulders above last year, and despite the lower batting average......all other stats are significantly ahead of where he was last April. I love the walks!

[redsfaninbsg]

Wandy Rodriguez was placed on the DL today, any idea on who replaces him in the rotation?

[Raisor]

Wandy Rodriguez was placed on the DL today, any idea on who replaces him in the rotation?


Sandy Koufax probably :(

[Chip R]

If it's Pittsburgh then Sean Casey will be crushing the color tonight on FSO.

[NebraskaRed]

Wandy Rodriguez was placed on the DL today, any idea on who replaces him in the rotation?

Maybe Randy Wodriguez?

[jojo]

This is a huge series as the Reds have a chance to put some distance between themselves and a major division rival as they potentially climb a rung up the ladder in the standings.

[757690]

If it's Pittsburgh then Sean Casey will be crushing the color tonight on FSO.

Hello Ballpark sounds on MLB.TV

[NebraskaRed]

And Aaron Boone will be on ESPN. The 90's are alive in Pittsburgh!

[malcontent]

If it's Pittsburgh then Sean Casey will be crushing the color tonight on FSO.
OH GOD.

[malcontent]

Some people are making it sound like Phillips is demanding he hit in a certain spot or else. It's not up to him where the coaches choose to hit him.
Um, no. But my gut instinct tells me someone could take issue with such a move. How's that?

[KYExtemper]

We'll get to see Ike Davis again tonight since the Pirates traded for him a few days ago.

[Red Raindog]

Wandy Rodriguez was placed on the DL today, any idea on who replaces him in the rotation?

some guy named undecided is listed at ESPN

- - - Updated - - -


If it's Pittsburgh then Sean Casey will be crushing the color tonight on FSO.

mute is your friend

[Chuckie]

I don't get having Mesoraco seventh in the batting order. He should be fifth on days when Bruce bats cleanup ... and cleanup on the days when Bruce bats fifth.

I suppose it's as simple as Price not wanting to put too much pressure on him, but there's no question Mez is the Reds' best right-handed hitter. He's destined for the No. 5 (or cleanup) spot. Might as well do it soon. Frazier is not good enough to put there, IMO.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Sandy Koufax probably :(

Considering that he's 78...I'm fine with that. :O)

[_Sir_Charles_]

Hello Ballpark sounds on MLB.TV

I haven't seen that option this year. I also haven't seen the Radio audio overlay either. :(

- - - Updated - - -


Um, no. But my gut instinct tells me someone could take issue with such a move. How's that?

Agree to disagree. I don't think he'd say a peep about it.

[CySeymour]

As I said, he hits 1-4. You can nit pick that and say he's played 5 games in 7 years outside of 1-4, but that doesn't really count to me.

Well since you're making the rules now...

[KYExtemper]

Well last time we put 3 runs on Liriano. Votto hit a 2 run HR and Bryan Pena went 2-for-4 for the BA.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Well last time we put 3 runs on Liriano. Votto hit a 2 run HR and Bryan Pena went 2-for-4 for the BA.

He hasn't had to face Rocco yet this year though. :O)

2 for 6 last year (2 doubles) with 3 walks against Liriano. But this isn't last year's Rocco either. *grin*

Let's go Redlegs...pound the snot outta Liriano!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Huh. I've never seen that before. The umps are talking to Hurdle and basically asking him about the ground rules. where a HR is, over the line or over the railing, etc. It was clear that's what they were talking about. You'd think they'd discuss that prior to the lineup card exchange.

[KYExtemper]

Great. Can't afford to have Hamilton hurt.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Crap. HBP.

Right on the shin. I guess that's one way to limit the running game. :(

[KYExtemper]

So are the Pirates employing their version of "hack a Billy"?

[kbrake]

I didn't like getting hit when I played and kids were topping out at 55. Can't imagine how much fun that is.

[Larkin Fan]

I find all HBPs by the Pirates these days to be suspect.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Wow. How exciting was that? He is so fun to watch run.

[_Sir_Charles_]

LOL! AWESOME! SB attempt, but Votto hits it back to the pitcher, he goes to third anyway. Damn!

[Larkin Fan]

Go Billy go.

[_Sir_Charles_]

"That's what happens when you're so fast, sometimes you go flying past the bag" ~ Casey

Seriously Case...how in the world would YOU know. LOL. I run faster than you do. :O)

[BluegrassRedleg]

Speed = pressure

LOL. Goes first to third on a grounder to the pitcher and scores on a quick-hopper to third.

Ridiculous.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Grounder to third. Hamilton scores. NO CLUE how he scored there.

Ah, he dropped the ball. If he hadn't dropped it, Billy was toast.

[kaldaniels]

That's 3 Billy Runs this year by my count.

Starting to add up.

[WVRedsFan]

Great goodness, will some please shut Casey up!!

[Larkin Fan]

Speed is a wonderful thing.

[kbrake]

Grounder to third. Hamilton scores. NO CLUE how he scored there.

Ah, he dropped the ball. If he hadn't dropped it, Billy was toast.

I'm pretty sure he beat the tag. Martin got him up pretty high and I think Hamilton was already to the plate.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Frazier draws the walk. 1st & 2nd with 1 down for Bruce

[tomnuetten]

That's 3 Billy Runs this year by my count.

Starting to add up.

billy run? that´s a martin can´t hold on to the baseball run...

another bad contact play right there. at some point they should think about it (got lucky this time)

[Red Raindog]

Great goodness, will some please shut Casey up!!

is that physically possible?

[_Sir_Charles_]

I'm pretty sure he beat the tag. Martin got him up pretty high and I think Hamilton was already to the plate.

Not so sure. I like the aggressiveness and forcing the defense to make the play. But if he hadn't dropped it...I'm not so sure.

Jay pops out to Alvarez. 2 down.

[Raisor]

I kinda like Aaron Boone on Espn. At least he's more listenable than, say, Sutcliffe.

[faffy42]

The HAMSTER!!! Makin it happen...that 1st to 3rd was just wow...great aggressiveness.

[Larkin Fan]

is that physically possible?

Nope. It's been demonstrated through multiple studies that he can't be silenced.

[KYExtemper]

Hence why Meso should be hitting higher in the lineup!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Ludwick K's on a ball in the dirt. But we put one on the board. 1-0 Reds.

Okay Mike...keep 'em off balance.

[redsfaninbsg]

Need to get in the Pirates pen, it has to be gassed.

[WVRedsFan]

Nope. It's been demonstrated through multiple studies that he can't be silenced.

I've already switched to ESPN. Too much.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Need to get in the Pirates poem, it has to be gassed.

Didn't figure you for a poetry fan. :O)

[KYExtemper]

Need to get in the Pirates pen, it has to be gassed.

Very true. According to Marty, Gomez, Grilli, and Watson are not even available for them to use tonight.

[reds44]

I wonder how much Boone makes at ESPN? I know he loved Cincinnati and he's better than Brantley for sure.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Yep, spot on Welsh. I love how quickly Leake works. Keeps the defense on their toes too.

- - - Updated - - -

Pop out to Votto in foul ground. Weird angle for him.

[RiverRat13]

I wonder how much Boone makes at ESPN? I know he loved Cincinnati and he's better than Brantley for sure.

Does he like ice cream?

[_Sir_Charles_]

1 pitch groundout for Martin to Brandon. Quickly 2 down.

- - - Updated - - -


Does he like ice cream?

Or chicken, or ribs, or steak, or candy, or, or, or, or, or....

[Raisor]

Hence why Meso should be hitting higher in the lineup!

Rocco

[RedsBrick]

I love 1 pitch outs when in the field...and equally loathe them when at the plate. It's all in your perspective.

[_Sir_Charles_]

McCutchen works a walk. All 4 balls JUUUUUUST missed.

[tomnuetten]

phillips defensively with a slow/bad start to the season

[_Sir_Charles_]

Grounder to Phillips, eats him up. Even lost his mitt. Everybody safe.

[malcontent]

Walker would be HOF material if he only played against the Reds.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Walker hits a ROPE...right to Bruce. Walker killed us last series. I hope we contain him this time around.

[Kc61]

phillips defensively with a slow/bad start to the season

BP may have slowed down, but that ball was a smash. One of those plays you put the glove down and hope.

[KYExtemper]

Neil Walker still hitting the ball hard.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Weird list. Chris Stynes? hehe.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Mez keeps on raking.

[RedsBrick]

He's seeing beach balls up there!

[WVRedsFan]

Rocco be hot!!

[tomnuetten]

BP may have slowed down, but that ball was a smash. One of those plays you put the glove down and hope.

that was not an easy play, but he had multiple of those this season and didn´t make any... the way he fielded the ball in past years you expect him to make those plays... looks like his range gets smaller aswell

[kbrake]

Rocco is just insane.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Rocco with a solid single to left.

Is it time for "Roccomatic" yet? :O)

[Raisor]

Cozart's ops would make a tremendous OBP

[RiverRat13]

#Roccoonfire

[_Sir_Charles_]

#Roccoonfire

I read that as Racoon fire.

[Raisor]

I follow nibbles the horse on twitter. I have doubts he's really a horse.

- - - Updated - - -


I read that as Racoon fire.

Weirdo

[RedsBaron]

I guess that Sean Casey doesn't know the story of Willard Hershberger.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Zack K's swinging. 1 down for Leake.

Sac bunt. He gets it down. I would've let him swing away though.

[kbrake]

Not a fan of sacrificing in that situation.

[KYExtemper]

Making Leake sacrifice?

[Raisor]

Leake might be faster than BHam

[faffy42]

Dear mike price.... go ahead and move your .500 hitter in front of someone besides cozart and the pitcher. Thank you. A fan.

[Larkin Fan]

Ugh the bunt... again...

[KYExtemper]

If anything, maybe Cozart should've been bunting to set up Leake #NotsureifI'mkiddingornot

[Raisor]

Dear mike price.... go ahead and move your .500 hitter in front of someone besides cozart and the pitcher. Thank you. A fan.

Mike Price?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Dear mike price.... go ahead and move your .500 hitter in front of someone besides cozart and the pitcher. Thank you. A fan.


Bryan. Although he probably answers to Phil Mickelson too.

Hamilton pops up to center. Immediately drops down for 10 pushups.

[Raisor]

Bryan.

Hamilton pops up to center. Immediately drops down for 10 pushups.

He may run like Hayes, but he hits like his mother.

[RedsBrick]

I kinda figured Cozart would sac bunt to give Leake the RBI opp

[_Sir_Charles_]

He may run like Hayes, but he hits like his mother.

I don't have her OPS handy, so I'm not sure if that's an insult or not.

[NebraskaRed]

Dear mike price.... go ahead and move your .500 hitter in front of someone besides cozart and the pitcher. Thank you. A fan.

http://cache.comcorpusa.com/640/0/crop/ktsm/media/sports/mike%20price.jpg

[_Sir_Charles_]

Soft single to left for Ike Davis.

[_Sir_Charles_]

*whew* Nice scoop by Votto. 5-4-3 DP

[RiverRat13]

http://cache.comcorpusa.com/640/0/crop/ktsm/media/sports/mike%20price.jpg

Roll tide!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Fly out to center to end the inning. 1-0 Reds after 2 full.

[kaldaniels]

http://cache.comcorpusa.com/640/0/crop/ktsm/media/sports/mike%20price.jpg

Why'd they mislabel Walt?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Top of 3

Votto, Phillips, Frazier, Bruce, Ludwick, Mesoraco, Cozart, Leake, Hamilton, Votto, Phillips, Frazier, Bruce, Ludwick all due up this inning.

[RedsBrick]

the ole high and tight to low and away

[_Sir_Charles_]

Joey k's on a NASTY pitch.

- - - Updated - - -

Brandon with a shot off the wall in center. 2 bagger!

[RedlegJake]

Toddfather!

[kbrake]

The Liriano slider to left handed hitters is so unfair. Good to see our right handed bats jumping all over him.

[_Sir_Charles_]

HEY! There we go! 2-0 Reds after a Frazier double!

[KYExtemper]

People were bashing Phillips lately here so he proves us wrong with a double. This board has mystical powers!

[wheels]

It's been lots of fun watching this team hit recently. I hope they can keep this up.

[kaldaniels]

I said it last week. I like Bruce but I think I'd sit Bruce vs Liriano and just stack the deck with RHB vs Liriano.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Jay grounds out to first. 2 down. Todd to third.

[DocRed]

Does this Ump have a huge Strikezone or what?!?

[faffy42]

Why'd they mislabel Walt?

: ) I live in wa. state... that's actually what might of happened subconciously

[_Sir_Charles_]

Luddy grounds out to short to end the inning. But we add on another one. 2-0 Reds.

[wheels]

Rocco is going to lead off another inning. They're not maximizing his hotness.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Mets up 1-0 early on the Cards.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Leake's got everything rolling here lately.

[kbrake]

Marte singles and is immediately picked on.

[Kc61]

Leake picks off Marte.

[KYExtemper]

Both pitchers working fast tonight.

[_Sir_Charles_]

2-0 Reds with Rocco walking to the plate. Pirates defense quivers in fear.

[RedsBrick]

Beach balls, I say!

[BluegrassRedleg]

Mez. Hitting machine.

[KYExtemper]

Screw .400. Meso is making a run at .500 this year!

[M2]

Marte singles and is immediately picked on.

Did Marte's mom use a bowl to cut his hair?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Single to center btw. :o)

[Hillsdale87]

Price should challenge that. He beat it

[BluegrassRedleg]

Safe. Gonna win another challenge.

[Raisor]

He was safe

[kbrake]

You think Rocco will get two plaques upon arrival in Cooperstown? And he beat that throw.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Rocco with the SB. OH! called out. Not so sure.

Ump had a bad angle on that. Directly behind the runner.

No challenge. Mistake.

[Kc61]

Mes was safe, they should have challenged.

[kaldaniels]

Safe.

Hire a new replay adviser.

[BluegrassRedleg]

C'mon, bench bros. Gotta challenge that. Clear-cut.

[Raisor]

I hate the challange system. Just get the call right.

[DocRed]

God, MLB Umps are just terrible...

[Red Raindog]

Mes now at .543 -----

[kaldaniels]

God, MLB Umps are just terrible...

That was extremely close. Not gonna fault them.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Cozart flies out to center. McCutchen showing off his wheels.

[Raisor]

That was extremely close. Not gonna fault them.

If you love the umps so much you should marry them

[_Sir_Charles_]

That was extremely close. Not gonna fault them.

Agreed about it being close. I will fault him on his positioning though. He had a poor angle to make that call.

[DocRed]

That was extremely close. Not gonna fault them.

I will, because they got it wrong, close or not. They get paid to make the right call, not the wrong call on close plays.

[kbrake]

I think MLB umpires usually do a pretty good job on plays like that but this whole challenge thing is so silly. Took 30 seconds to look at several different angles and see he was safe just correct it right away and move on.

[Raisor]

Mes now at .543 -----

Rocco

[_Sir_Charles_]

Leake k's to end the inning. This game is flyin'.

[krm1580]

Coming into this game Cozart had an OPS of .077 when he is ahead in the count. I am not sure what was more amazing, that he was OPSing .077 or that he has been ahead in the count 12 times all season.

[George Anderson]

If you love the umps so much you should marry them

Mommas don't let your babies grow up to be umpires.

[Chip R]

I guess that Sean Casey doesn't know the story of Willard Hershberger.

I'm not sure anyone in the booth does.

[M2]

God, MLB Umps are just terrible...

They call guys out when it feels like an out.

[Kc61]

Funny part about the challenge is that the one guy who doesn't see the replay in the manager.

The fans see it on TV. Some replay coach sees it. Some guy in NY sees it.

The manager relies on others, doesn't see the play, then decides.

[Raisor]

I'm not sure anyone in the booth does.

Hey what games do you want to go to?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Another soft single off Leake. McCutchen to left this time. Good pitch too.

[KYExtemper]

The silliest part about the replay system is that managers go out to "argue" with the umpire and then wait for a signal. I imagine those conversations are like "So...what are you doing for dinner? I'm only out here to wait for a signal about what to do."

[BCubb2003]

Rocco

Rake-o

[Chip R]

Hey what games do you want to go to?

Monday & Tuesday sound good to me.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Alvarez with a rocket off the RF wall. Bruce plays it perfectly. Pedro to 2nd, Andrew to 3rd.

[KYExtemper]

Well, Leake has really worked himself into a jam here.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Walker plunked in the butt. Bases jacked.

- - - Updated - - -

Alright. Triple play right here. :O)

[M2]

Rake-o

Mesobatmania

[KYExtemper]

I was afraid of that.......

[Red Raindog]

Tonight Leake went from good to bad fast

[_Sir_Charles_]

UGH. 4-2 Pirates. Ike Davis granny.

[Red in Chicago]

Ouch.

[Tom Servo]

lol

[Raisor]

Ugh.

[redhawkfish]

Ike Davis turning into Bill Hall!:thumbdown:

[Kc61]

What is with the Reds and Ike Davis?

[BluegrassRedleg]

Damn, Leake. Get it together, man.

[faffy42]

The silliest part about the replay system is that managers go out to "argue" with the umpire and then wait for a signal. I imagine those conversations are like "So...what are you doing for dinner? I'm only out here to wait for a signal about what to do."

Yes...does seem a little silly. It was silly before the replay system too...cuz the umps changed their minds 0% of the time after arguuing. But I LOVE the challenge system! Gives the team a chance to get the right call!

[Stray]

Off the plate inside and he hits it out.

And breaks his bat.

[757690]

Cue twelve more pages in the Leake thread, lol.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Out #1. A bit late.

[BCubb2003]

Broken-bat grand slam.

[Red in Chicago]

Tonight Leake went from good to bad fast

That will add another 20 pages to the Leake threads.

[KYExtemper]

Cue twelve more pages in the Leake thread, lol.

See, people were praising Leake around these parts a few days ago. Opposite happens!

[Raisor]

Yes...does seem a little silly. It was silly before the replay system too...cuz the umps changed their minds 0% of the time after arguuing. But I LOVE the challenge system! Gives the team a chance to get the right call!

What I don't like is there being a limit on challenges.

[_Sir_Charles_]

2 down after Barmes K's.
Liriano grounds out to Votto to end the inning. But the damage is done. 4-2 Pirates. :(

Alright boys...take it back!

[Tom Servo]

Inning over, damage sufficiently done.

[KYExtemper]

Leake must've had a brain cloud for the first part of that inning.

[Kc61]

There shouldn't be challenges. There should be a replay official assigned to each game. He should decide when replay is invoked and should review the play himself.

All the official needs to do is signal the umpires to hold play for a few minutes.

It would be faster, more efficient, and not subject to these challenge rules.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Leake must've had a brain cloud for the first part of that inning.

2 bad pitches up in the heart of the zone. Shame because he's throwing the ball well.

[Red in Chicago]

Sick of the bad bunting.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Billy out on the bunt attempt back to Liriano

[kbrake]

Even on a bad bunt right back to the pitcher it was a close play.

[Larry Schuler]

This is when Liriano suddenly becomes impossible to hit for the next 3 innings, right?

[Kc61]

2 bad pitches up in the heart of the zone. Shame because he's throwing the ball well.

Leake simply gives up too many homers for a ground ball type pitcher. This has been his nemesis and he needs to fix it.

[KYExtemper]

Second game of the Cubs series aside, the top part of our lineup has been struggling lately.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Joey flies out to AC in left center. 2 down for Phillips.

- - - Updated - - -

Reds go 1-2-3 after BP pops up to 2nd.

- - - Updated - - -

Mets still up 1-0 on the Cards. Now in the 6th.
No score in the 2nd of the Brewers/Friars game.

[faffy42]

What I don't like is there being a limit on challenges.

I like the limit in regards to game time...the game will really slow down if a team can challenge anytime with no penalty. You would see a ton of plays challenged. But as it is now..you have to limit use of your one challenge whenever your most certain, and its a crucial play...and you do also get another one if your right.

[powersackers]

We'll get to see Ike Davis again tonight since the Pirates traded for him a few days ago.

Yeah we see him. Ouch.

[WVRedsFan]

Speaking as a fan, Billy Hamilton is not ready to lead off 150 games a season. Fast is fine, but when you can't hit well enough to swing away and resort to the bunt, he needs more seasoning. Yes, everyone loves the speed, but the Reds need a real lead off hitter.

[faffy42]

there shouldn't be challenges. There should be a replay official assigned to each game. He should decide when replay is invoked and should review the play himself.

All the official needs to do is signal the umpires to hold play for a few minutes.

It would be faster, more efficient, and not subject to these challenge rules.
i like this idea the best : )

[Kc61]

I like the limit in regards to game time...the game will really slow down if a team can challenge anytime with no penalty. You would see a ton of plays challenged. But as it is now..you have to limit use of your one challenge whenever your most certain, and its a crucial play...and you do also get another one if your right.

As I said, why have challenges at all. By nature they are time consuming. Manager has to go out, argue, wait for the team's replay coach to review. Takes forever.

Simply have an official look at all plays he considers close. Take it away from the managers. Will be much faster.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Marte flies out to Bruce. 1 pitch out.
Martin grounds out to short. 2 down.

[Kc61]

faffy 42 our posts crossed in the mail.

C'mon Leake.

[_Sir_Charles_]

This just in. McCutchen is pretty darned good. Single.

Another pitch left up again by Leake. I've only seen that about 4 times today...they've punished all 4 of them.

[kbrake]

Speaking as a fan, Billy Hamilton is not ready to lead off 150 games a season. Fast is fine, but when you can't hit well enough to swing away and resort to the bunt, he needs more seasoning. Yes, everyone loves the speed, but the Reds need a real lead off hitter.

It would be absurd for the bunt to not be a part of his game. Like everything else he needs to get better at it but he has to have that as part of his game.

[kaldaniels]

i like this idea the best : )

Like college football.

You don't hear much complaint about how they do it.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Line out to center. Hamilton almost overran it. But Alvarez is gone. 4-2 Pirates it stays.

[WVRedsFan]

It would be absurd for the bunt to not be a part of his game. Like everything else he needs to get better at it but he has to have that as part of his game.
Agree, but it appears that's all he has with the bat now. I like the kid, but the same thing over and over won't work.

[Billy Hamilton's Legs]

The challenge thing is silly. Managers walking out of the dugout at a snail pace to give their replay guys time is just obnoxious.

[Kc61]

Brandon Webb had a short career but was an outstanding ground ball starting pitcher. He pitched seven years, over 200 innings in five of them.

His homers allowed each season were 12, 17, 21, 15, 12, 13, 2 (short season obviously).

Leake has allowed 19, 23, 26, 21 in his years through 2013. Never threw 200 innings.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Frazier walks to lead off.

Jay tries to lay down a bunt to burn the shift. Fouled off.

- - - Updated - - -


Brandon Webb had a short career but was an outstanding ground ball starting pitcher. He pitched seven years, over 200 innings in five of them.

His homers allowed each season were 12, 17, 21, 15, 12, 13, 2 (short season obviously).

Leake has allowed 19, 23, 26, 21 in his years through 2013. Never threw 200 innings.

Webb was a yearly Cy Young candidate. That's kinda an unfair comparison don't you think?

[Cedric]

I'm not huge on caring about batting order but Mes at 7 killed the Reds tonight.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Bruce hits into the DP. 2 down for Ludwick.
Ground out to short.

[Kc61]

Frazier walks to lead off.

Jay tries to lay down a bunt to burn the shift. Fouled off.

- - - Updated - - -



Webb was a yearly Cy Young candidate. That's kinda an unfair comparison don't you think?

No, it's an attempt to show what is expected from a top ground ball pitcher. I'm not expecting Leake to match Webb across the board. But IMO a ground ball pitcher can't allow over 20 homers per year.

[_Sir_Charles_]

No, it's an attempt to show what is expected from a top ground ball pitcher. I'm not expecting Leake to match Webb across the board. But IMO a ground ball pitcher can't allow over 20 homers per year.

I personally never really considered Mike a ground ball pitcher. I see him as a finesse pitcher who works the zone and his speeds to keep hitters off balance.

~edit~ Webb was nearly twice as much of a GB/FB pitcher than Leake has been.


- - - Updated - - -

Walker singles to left.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Davis K's
Tabata flies out to Jay.

Ground out to short to end the inning. 4-2 Bucs after 6 full.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Rocco on yet again! E on Barmes

[WVRedsFan]

Cozart-pitcher-Hamilton is a struggle tonight. Rocco gets on and it amounts to nothing.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Mets up 2-0 on Cards now (7th)

- - - Updated - - -

Zack battling. Ends up flying out to Tabata. 1 down. Solid ab there.

[KYExtemper]

Cozart battled there, but didn't manage to get anything out of it.

[WVRedsFan]

Leake with a hit

[Kc61]

Bloop hit for Leake.

Telling you, the right play is bunt Cozart hit Leake.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Leake with a bloop single over 2nd. Rocco goes 1st to third.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Billy! Sac fly to center. 4-3 Pirates.

[durl]

Still can't wrap my head around Votto batting second...

[_Sir_Charles_]

2 down, Leake on 1st for Votto. Ground out to 2nd. But we plate 1. 4-3 Buccos

[Kc61]

Still can't wrap my head around Votto batting second...

Votto hitting second might work, but I don't like it with Hamilton leading off.

I don't want Votto moving over runners or taking pitches so Billy can steal. I want him in a spot to swing away.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Brew crew put a 3 spot on the board. 3-0 in the 3rd over the Fathers.

[wheels]

How beat up and tired is Pirates pen?

I might like the Reds in this close and late situation.

[KYExtemper]

At least we cut into the deficit.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Votto hitting second might work, but I don't like it with Hamilton leading off.

I don't want Votto moving over runners or taking pitches so Billy can steal. I want him in a spot to swing away.

IMO he hasn't been taking pitches at all. I doubt that Votto ever has anything other than a green light.

[kbrake]

Votto hitting second might work, but I don't like it with Hamilton leading off.

I don't want Votto moving over runners or taking pitches so Billy can steal. I want him in a spot to swing away.

That is why I like it though. I don't think Votto is taking pitches to let anyone run but he always takes pitches so Hamilton most times will have a few pitches to go on.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Soft 2 hopper to Phillips from Liriano. 1 down.

[KYExtemper]

Milwaukee beating up San Diego 3-0 in the bottom of the third @ Milwaukee.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Marte grounds out to short. 2 down.
1-2-3 go the Pirates as Martin flies out to Jay

[REDSEER]

Chris Welsh explaining TOOTBLAN.

:laugh:

[KYExtemper]

Well, if we are going to do some damage this is the part of the order that's supposed to do it. Phillips-Frazier-Bruce due up.

[WVRedsFan]

Milwaukee beating up San Diego 3-0 in the bottom of the third @ Milwaukee.

If this keeps up, the Brewers will have a 10-game lead soon.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Outside of one bad inning, Leake's been pretty solid. Unfortunately, it was ONE BAD INNING. Parra warming btw.

[Kc61]

I personally never really considered Mike a ground ball pitcher. I see him as a finesse pitcher who works the zone and his speeds to keep hitters off balance.

~edit~ Webb was nearly twice as much of a GB/FB pitcher than Leake has been.


- - - Updated - - -

Walker singles to left.

Of starting pitchers last year at 120 or more innings, Leake's ground ball percentage was seventeenth best in the NL.

I think he's supposed to be a ground ball pitcher.

Obviously there are others who are better at it.

Still, needs to keep it in the stadium.

BP looks healthier tonight. Base hit.

[_Sir_Charles_]

1st pitch single for Phillips. There we go!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Of starting pitchers last year at 120 or more innings, Leake's ground ball percentage was seventeenth best in the NL.

I think he's supposed to be a ground ball pitcher.

Obviously there are others who are better at it.

Still, needs to keep it in the stadium.

BP looks healthier tonight. Base hit.

I don't disagree, but he's never really had those traditional ground ball pitcher types of numbers (ratio wise).

[Kc61]

IMO he hasn't been taking pitches at all. I doubt that Votto ever has anything other than a green light.

Second place hitter must be focused on Hamilton and whether he's going to run. I'd rather have Votto third.

But I still think the move to second was necessary because I don't see another candidate.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Padres working their way back. 3-1 now.
And now 3-2.

- - - Updated - - -


Second place hitter must be focused on Hamilton and whether he's going to run. I'd rather have Votto third.

But I still think the move to second was necessary because I don't see another candidate.

No, second place hitter must be focused on the PITCHER. Period.

[Kc61]

Now we're in business. Good game for Frazier.

Let's keep it going.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Rally caps engage.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Frazier! Single up the middle. Brandon 1st to 3rd.

[KYExtemper]

Time for Bruce to rip us a nice double.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Rally caps engage.

7019

[villain612]

I'm late to the party. Just in time for a rally.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Justin Wilson in for Liriano. 1st & 3rd, no outs for BRUUUUUUUUUCE!

[WVRedsFan]

Another lefty out of the pen. Gotta hope Jay can read this one.

[kbrake]

Second place hitter must be focused on Hamilton and whether he's going to run. I'd rather have Votto third.

But I still think the move to second was necessary because I don't see another candidate.

What did you think of Votto's comments that Hamilton is the only protection he's ever had in a lineup? That makes a big difference for me.