5-19-18 Cubs @ Reds Game #1 1:10 PM

[Ron Madden]

Cubs

1. Albert Almora Jr. (R) CF
2. Kris Bryant (R) 3B
3. Anthony Rizzo (L) 1B
4. Addison Russell (R) SS
5. Kyle Schwarber (L) LF
6. Victor Caratini (S) C
7. Javier Baez (R) 2B
8. Ian Happ (S) RF
9. Kyle Hendricks (R) P

Reds

1. Jesse Winker (L) LF
2. Jose Peraza (R) SS
3. Joey Votto (L) 1B
4. Scooter Gennett (L) 2B
5. Eugenio Suarez (R) 3B
6. Scott Schebler (L) RF
7. Tucker Barnhart (S) C
8. Luis Castillo (R) P
9. Billy Hamilton (S) CF

[Big Klu]

Was Albert Almora Sr. famous? I'm always intrigued by people who insist on being called "Jr.", or "the 3rd", or "the 9th", especially when their predecessors weren't well-known.

[Tom Servo]

Leadoff hit against Castillo.

Kind of have a bad feeling about him today. Even with his hot streak he's been giving up HRs, and the Cubs are really good at those.

[Tadasimha]

This looks unfortunately familiar

[Tom Servo]

Single, single, fly out, and now a walk to Russell to bring up Schwarber with the bases loaded. Not good.

Yesiree! Luis escapes.

[Kingspoint]

Hope Homer didn't wake up the Cubs hitters. I know that's negative thinking, but there were so many hits yesterday.

Castillo needs to make up for lost time and turn in another decent performance and quiet those Cubs, putting them back to sleep for a few more days, at least.

[Kc61]

Bases loaded for Schwarber.

You can’t make this stuff up.

DP!!!

Nice play by Gennett on the slowish grounder.

[Kingspoint]

Did one of ours get injured?

[Tadasimha]

Nice job by Scooter to take advantage of Russell not slowing down

[Kingspoint]

Nice, Castillo!

Got out of there with 18 pitches, too.

[Tom Servo]

Did one of ours get injured?
No. Almora seemed to tweak something though, but that's not our problem.

[Kingspoint]

Let's jump on these guys.

[Tom Servo]

4 pitch walk to Peraza lol

[Kingspoint]

Is it me, or does Winker strike out a lot?

- - - Updated - - -

Those were all in Peraza's swing Zone. That's a good omen for today.

[Tom Servo]

Is it me, or does Winker strike out a lot?

It's you, that was only his fourth in May. He is obviously slumping though.

- - - Updated - - -

Votto looked all out of sorts against Hendricks.

[Tom Servo]

Scooter delivers! RBI single to score Peraza.

1-0 Redlegs

And here comes the rain (again).

[Tadasimha]

Boot Scooter Boogie!

[BluegrassRedleg]

Nice manufacturing, Redlegs.


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[BCubb2003]

Scoot King.

[Tom Servo]

It looks incredibly dark out.

[Tom Servo]

Luis has a bit of a habit of going full on counts, which isn't really ideal. Strikes out Baez on a full count, gives up a double to Happ on a full count.

Castillo scoreless through 2.

[Tom Servo]

Leadoff bloop hit for the Cubs in the third, Peraza should have gotten out of the way and let Billy deal with it.

It immediately haunts, Bryant crushes an RBI double to tie it up.

Luis strikes out Rizzo and Russell. Now to deal with Schwarber.

Falls behind 3-0 to Schwarber and the decide to IBB him. Okay.

[Tom Servo]

Caratini swings at a high fastball and gives it a ride but it dies in deep left.

1-1 to the bottom of 3. Where is everyone?

[Kingspoint]

Don't give the Cubs any momentum.

Top of our lineup needs to get that run back. Since it's Double-header day and it's the Cubs, "Let's get two!"

[CaiGuy]

Just coming in and seeing the lineup...surprised to see the full team out there. Wonder if we'll get a Sunday special for the second game.

[Kc61]

Winker beats one out.

Jesse will be ok, I think. The mistake was if anyone thought he’s so good that pitchers won’t adjust to him.

He’s going through the same adjustment and re-adjustment that most young players need to conquer. The good ones get through it, I think he will.

[Tom Servo]

Winker beats one out.

Jesse will be ok, I think. The mistake was to think he’s so good that pitchers won’t adjust to him.

He’s going through the same adjustment and re-adjustment that most young players need to conquer.
Careful, that kind of talk gets you accused of thinking he should be in the Reds lineup for the next 10 years.

[Tom Servo]

Was hoping for a clean inning for Castillo with the bottom of the order here but he went full (again) on Happ and walked him.

And now a balk.

[Kc61]

Careful, that kind of talk gets you accused of thinking he should be in the Reds lineup for the next 10 years.

I’ll stick with his pre-arbitration years, for now.

Fundamentally sound hitter, line drives, plate discipline, using all fields. Reds need all of those types they can get.

[Kingspoint]

Winker beats one out.

Jesse will be ok, I think. The mistake was if anyone thought he’s so good that pitchers won’t adjust to him.

He’s going through the same adjustment and re-adjustment that most young players need to conquer. The good ones get through it, I think he will.

Was just wondering about that myself, unfamiliar with his history, but having seen here often his potential.

When he gets past his first 1000 PA's and has gone through multiple adjustments, including having seen most pitchers 10+ times, he should "settle" in as a ".310-.315" AVG and ".370-.380" OBP player?

[ochoa30]

Was just wondering about that myself, unfamiliar with his history, but having seen here often his potential.

When he gets past his first 1000 PA's and has gone through multiple adjustments, including having seen most pitchers 10+ times, he should "settle" in as a ".310-.315" AVG and ".370-.380" OBP player?

Unless he can park a few he isnt going to touch numbers like that

[Tom Servo]

Another full count, this time to Almora, and a walk (#4)

Now Bryant up with two outs, who has absolutely smoked two hits.

[Kc61]

Was just wondering about that myself, unfamiliar with his history, but having seen here often his potential.

When he gets past his first 1000 PA's and has gone through multiple adjustments, including having seen most pitchers 10+ times, he should "settle" in as a ".310-.315" AVG and ".370-.380" OBP player?

Can’t predict his numbers, but Winker in the minors was a consistent high OBP hitter when healthy.

[Kingspoint]

Gameday has that as a Strike 3 any way you look at it.

[ochoa30]

It really is crazy how many of his pitches are easy takes. No where near the zone. Hes got such good stuff but he doesn't trust it enough it seems.

[Tom Servo]

It really is crazy how many of his pitches are easy takes. No where near the zone. Hes got such good stuff but he doesn't trust it enough it seems.
That's been one of my big take aways watching him this year. Way too many waste pitches that never look like strikes.

Gets Bryant swinging to end the threat.

[Kc61]

It really is crazy how many of his pitches are easy takes. No where near the zone. Hes got such good stuff but he doesn't trust it enough it seems.

Castillo is a young pitcher, he just needs more experience. He’s the least of the Reds’ problems.

[ochoa30]

That's been one of my big take aways watching him this year. Way too many waste pitches that never look like strikes.

Gets Bryant swinging to end the threat.

I guess its just a young guy trying to be perfect but it's tough to watch sometimes. Good job with Bryant there though.

- - - Updated - - -


Castillo is a young pitcher, he just needs more experience. He’s the least of the Reds’ problems.

I agree for sure. Especially considering he wasnt a starter until a few years ago. He may be 25 but his pitching experience isnt as high as the usual 25 year old starter in the big leagues.

[CaiGuy]

All of the "waste" pitches after getting ahead to hitters is a little frustrating as a fan.

Do these young pitchers purposely throw waaayyy of the plate after getting ahead to try to induce swings, or are they just missing by that much?

To me, here's not even a point in throwing 3 pitches a foot outside after being ahead 0-2. If you throw off of the plate, at least make it somewhat appealing to swing at. Or maybe thats what they want to do but aren't able to.

[JaxRed]

Castillo has ERA below 6.00 for first time all year....

[CaiGuy]

I love it when they take advantage of the Cubs joke defense.

- - - Updated - - -


Castillo has ERA below 6.00 for first time all year....

He has the best FIP of any Reds starter, I think. And has for a while.

- - - Updated - - -

Ugh, the bunt with a batter on 2nd and no outs.

Where's that Riggleman needs to go thread? :)

[JaxRed]

Happ really should of/could of had that. Is Votto hurt on that run?

[BluegrassRedleg]

More solid manufacturing!


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[CaiGuy]

Well, it worked, I guess.

[Kingspoint]

Castillo is a young pitcher, he just needs more experience. He’s the least of the Reds’ problems.

One of Homer's major problems was he spent years and years being afraid of the hitter, a maturing aspect he struggled to get past mentally. By the time he figured it out, injuries took over. I wonder if the organization challenges their prospects enough when they get to this point where Castillo is at to go after the hitters. I know we have Defensive issues, but you can't let that stop you from trusting your fielders.

[CaiGuy]

One of Homer's major problems was he spent years and years being afraid of the hitter, a maturing aspect he struggled to get past mentally. By the time he figured it out, injuries took over. I wonder if the organization challenges their prospects enough when they get to this point where Castillo is at to go after the hitters. I know we have Defensive issues, but you can't let that stop you from trusting your fielders.

The seem afraid to get hit hard. They should be afraid to put guys on. Keep doing whatever got you ahead in the count. Attack the hitter.

You're going to give up homeruns in the current environment. Try to limit walks and baserunners.

[Kingspoint]

Kendricks only at 49 pitches.

This will be it for Castillo.

[CaiGuy]

Peraza hurt?

[Big Klu]

Peraza hurt?

Castillo stepped on his foot.

[Kingspoint]

How is the 2nd pitch a ball?

[CaiGuy]

Oy, 5th walk.

[Kingspoint]

When you waste so many pitches, umpires won't give you calls, and in fact, give the hitters calls.

[Tom Servo]

Oy, 5th walk.

Hard not to view it as a step backwards

[CaiGuy]

Hard not to view it as a step backwards

Pitched like he feared the Cubs lineup. Amazing only 1 run.

[JaxRed]

Darwin apparently told him something magnificent....

[ochoa30]

Pitched like he feared the Cubs lineup. Amazing only 1 run so far.

To be fair, a lot of pitchers fear this line up. Most of them give up more then 1 run today. He gutted it out. Not every start is a gem.

- - - Updated - - -


Darwin apparently told him something magnificent....

Probably something like forget your fastball even exists with Baez at the plate

[CaiGuy]

To be fair, a lot of pitchers fear this line up. Most of them give up more then 1 run today. He gutted it out. Not every start is a gem.

- - - Updated - - -



Probably something like forget your fastball even exists with Baez at the plate

Agreed, though the Cubs lineup could/should fear him someday. His stuff is as good as any pitchers'.

But I am guessing 1 run allowed is due to luck more than fortitude. Can't allow 2 baserunners an inning. It's OK, I don't expect every game to be a gem.

[Kingspoint]

Very good job by Castillo after starting off with the bases loaded and one out in the first.

You can never get an excellent going only 5 innings and walking five guys. Perhaps it was just Good and not Very Good, but he overcame a lot, even if it was of his own doing. If he could only learn quickly from this. Next time, it's a 2-run and/or 3-run bomb.

[JaxRed]

Hard not to view it as a step backwards

I'm not viewing it a a step back.

[ochoa30]

Billy had a good week but hes awful again. Color me surprised.

[CaiGuy]

Billy had a good week but hes awful again. Color me surprised.

Not going so well for the havoc brothers right now.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Sam LeCure does a nice job with Marty. Really enjoying that.


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[Tony Cloninger]

When it comes to the Reds starters you do need a 6 man rotation. I mean absolutely no One on that staff can go 7. 6 innings is like 9 for them. If they are that afraid to throw strikes because of the park then quit trying to fight that issue and
Raise the RF fence without removing seats and push back the CF wall. Which would be easy to do. But no let’s physche out
The reds starters who all happen to be young.

[Tom Servo]

I'm not viewing it a a step back.
No HRs were my only real positive.

[ochoa30]

Wow

[JaxRed]

When it comes to the Reds starters you do need a 6 man rotation. I mean absolutely no One on that staff can go 7. 6 innings is like 9 for them. If they are that afraid to throw strikes because of the park then quit trying to fight that issue and
Raise the RF fence without removing seats and push back the CF wall. Which would be easy to do. But no let’s physche out
The reds starters who all happen to be young.

I think that argues for more relievers, not more starters. Now.... if you want 6 starters because that means less innings on our young guys and less Bailey......

[JaxRed]

I still thought he looked safe...

[Tony Cloninger]

I think that argues for more relievers, not more starters. Now.... if you want 6 starters because that means less innings on our young guys and less Bailey......

I don’t think I was arguing for anything specific. More like a post of frustration.
I know the game of starters has changed and there is a thread about this which I ranted about on it as well. But the Reds are like the absolute worst in regards to starters. ANY starter who can go even 6. Let alone 7. They are so bad that it makes you think well it’s the way the game is now. Well I am pretty sure that every team has at least 1 guy. One guy who can go 6-7 every start. Some even 2. Sure the rest barely go 6. But they all have 1. This team cannot even get 1 stater to do that.

[CaiGuy]

I know he (sorta) got on, but its time to move Peraza down in the lineup.

[JaxRed]

Peraza is a a little lame, I hope Billy H remembers that. It would help if Joey just went deep....

[CaiGuy]

Thom loves the bunt play! Begging for more...

[Kc61]

Very nice piece of hitting by Scooter to knock in the go ahead run.

Bunted foul, got in a hole, but still singled in the run.

[CaiGuy]

Very nice piece of hitting by Scooter to knock in the go ahead run.

Bunted foul, got in a hole, but still singled in the run.

And Suarez now!

- - - Updated - - -

Suarez is good.

[Kc61]

Votto, Gennett, Suarez can do a lot of damage. Others contribute, but they are the guts right now. Senzel should be on his way soon, hopefully.

[Tony Cloninger]

About time they hit this pedestrian pitchers stuff. Shut the Cubs fans up. Pump a record of boos being made into the PA system next time they start their chant. Just like the Falcons pumped fake noise at their stadium.

[JaxRed]

Kind of an early hook by Madden.

[CaiGuy]

The Sultan of Scoot has 2 RBI singles AND a Sac Bunt today...some on the ORG are going to be begging to lock him up to a LTC.

[JaxRed]

The Sultan of Scoot has 2 RBI singles AND a Sac Bunt today...some on the ORG are going to be begging to lock him up to a LTC.

They are? Everyone I see says trade him.

[CaiGuy]

Votto, Gennett, Suarez can do a lot of damage. Others contribute, but they are the guts right now. Senzel should be on his way soon, hopefully.

Time to bat those three higher, 2,3,4, in the lineup.

[Kc61]

They are? Everyone I see says trade him.

Not everyone is saying that.

[CaiGuy]

They are? Everyone I see says trade him.

Maybe a vocal minority.

Move him to LF and lock him up, they say.

[JaxRed]

Might be time for a poll....

[Tony Cloninger]

You don’t have to trade him yet. but you don’t have to lock up yet either.

And Schebler is horrible with less than 2 outs and runner on 3rd. He stands out as just awful.

[JaxRed]

Billy comes up with bases loaded and swing at 3 straight balls out of strike zone...

[corkedbat]

Billy looked silly. Woefully over-matched.

[Tony Cloninger]

What are you mad about Billy? You swung at the same stupid pitch. Which was a ball. Every single time.

[Kc61]

Now that the Reds are in Cincy, smallish outfield, Hamilton might sit a couple of games. Not like SF where you need his defense so much.

He’s all messed up at the plate right now.

Peraza still seems to be making good contact, but not succeeding right now.

Billy, just all messed up.

[JaxRed]

I would leave Duvall in and put him in LF.

[Roy Tucker]

Billy :(

At Taft’s Ale House with a bunch of god blessed Cubs fans. Grrrrrr....

[Tony Cloninger]

Billy comes up with bases loaded and swing at 3 straight balls out of strike zone...

You would think he was facing John Candelaria in that AB. I can’t take watching this guy hit but Schebler and Barnhart are just the type of hitters who with RISP turn into idiots trying to learn how to hit.

[Kingspoint]

Let's play some Defense. No Walks. No Errors these last 2-1/2 innings.

[JaxRed]

Throw strikes Amir..........

[Kc61]

That really was a tough inning, Reds could have blown this open.

Schebler had a real problem with the lefty, just tapped to first. With a fuller bench, that match up, might have hit for him. Not in today’s game.

Barnhart at bat was unlucky, I thought the runner might have scored on that grounder. Still a fly ball would have been better.

[Kingspoint]

Fundamentals, Cincy.

[CaiGuy]

GIDP!

[Tony Cloninger]

It was a clean slide until Kyle used his arm and elbow to give Scooter the old football in the groin.

[Kc61]

Scooter, when healthy, seems improved at second base. He’s not Roberto Alomar, don’t get me wrong. But he hustles out there and makes some nice plays.

When his shoulder hurt earlier, it was terrible, he couldn’t throw, but that’s not the current norm.

[ochoa30]

That really was a tough inning, Reds could have blown this open.

Schebler had a real problem with the lefty, just tapped to first. With a fuller bench, that match up, might have hit for him. Not in today’s game.

Barnhart at bat was unlucky, I thought the runner might have scored on that grounder. Still a fly ball would have been better.

It's not unlucky to hit a weak groundball to second with the infield in. Horrible job by all three hitters to end that inning.

[Kc61]

It's not unlucky to hit a weak groundball to second with the infield in. Horrible job by all three hitters to end that inning.

I’m not congratulating Tucker. But that grounder might have scored the run if the baserunner went home.

[ochoa30]

I love Amir Garrett

[CaiGuy]

Baez is involved somehow in the benches clearning then I saw him walking away staying out of the middle of the of the quarreling, lol

[Kingspoint]

That really was a tough inning, Reds could have blown this open.

Schebler had a real problem with the lefty, just tapped to first. With a fuller bench, that match up, might have hit for him. Not in today’s game.

Barnhart at bat was unlucky, I thought the runner might have scored on that grounder. Still a fly ball would have been better.

Herrera is supposedly a guy who is good at drawing a walk. At 25, and no future as a Starter on this team, he needs to be either a guy who is good at getting a hit or hitting with power. We already have a speed guy who should be on the bench in Hamilton. Herrera is redundant and not needed in the organization.

[Big Klu]

That really was a tough inning, Reds could have blown this open.

Schebler had a real problem with the lefty, just tapped to first. With a fuller bench, that match up, might have hit for him. Not in today’s game.

Barnhart at bat was unlucky, I thought the runner might have scored on that grounder. Still a fly ball would have been better.

They should have had the contact play on with Barnhart at bat (2nd & 3rd, 1 out). If they get the runner at the plate, then they still have a runner at 3rd with 2 outs.

[CaiGuy]

I am not into brawls or anything, but I don't mind a little swagger from Garrett.

[Kc61]

Herrera is supposedly a guy who is good at drawing a walk. At 25, and no future as a Starter on this team, he needs to be either a guy who is good at getting a hit or hitting with power. We already have a speed guy who should be on the bench in Hamilton. Herrera is redundant and not needed in the organization.

I think he’s on the team because he can fill in at shortstop and was hitting at AAA.

[Big Klu]

Baez is involved somehow in the benches clearning then I saw him walking away staying out of the middle of the of the quarreling, lol

Rizzo is a punk. He gets one in the ribs at some point.

[Tony Cloninger]

Anthony Rizzo has been a big mouth for a while.

[CaiGuy]

Thom defending Baez, lol.

[corkedbat]

Love Garrett

[Kingspoint]

I think he’s on the team because he can fill in at shortstop and was hitting at AAA.

It was the 2nd year in 8 years that his average was above .300, but it was only about 37 AB's. Hope he can start hitting. 1-11 as a pinch-hitter is bad.

[ochoa30]

Fire Thom Brennamen. The Cubs are the antagonist you putz.

[JaxRed]

Peraza's ankles have had a tough game...

[Big Klu]

Fire Thom Brennamen. The Cubs are the antagonist you putz.

English is hard, too.

[Tony Cloninger]

The Cubs have been kicking the Reds behinds for 3 years now at least. You get fed up and Baez is pretty easy to go after the way he acts sometimes.

Is Vottos walk up music a Mexican Polka?

[JaxRed]

The Cubs have been kicking the Reds behinds for 3 years now at least. You get fed up and Baez is pretty easy to go after the way he acts sometimes.

Is Vottos walk up music a Mexican Polka?

He continues to distance himself from Canada.....

[CaiGuy]

I know who my choice for closer is if the Reds shop Iggy...he already has that mentality.

[Beatlessp]

Fire Thom Brennamen. The Cubs are the antagonist you putz.

Not to mention he can't get anything right this week....wrong score for 2 innings in a game earlier in the week, consistantly calls wrong baserunners (ei, called votto scoring today when it was peraza)...slobs on <<insert favorite opponent's name here>> all game....

[Big Klu]

The Cubs have been kicking the Reds behinds for 3 years now at least. You get fed up and Baez is pretty easy to go after the way he acts sometimes.

Is Vottos walk up music a Mexican Polka?

Yeah, he's been playing norteño music so far this season.

[corkedbat]

The Sultan of Scoot has 2 RBI singles AND a Sac Bunt today...some on the ORG are going to be begging to lock him up to a LTC.

If I got the right offer, I'd deal him between games.

[JaxRed]

Hope no one gets injured. Cruz is all the bench we have left....

[ochoa30]

If I got the right offer, I'd deal him between games.

I think we all feel this way but hes the best hitter on the team this year. You have to get major value back.

- - - Updated - - -

Not ideal

[CaiGuy]

What's his deal? Sucks but got move on to the next batter.

[Kingspoint]

Been waiting for a 2-Inning Save opportunity from Riggleman. Hughes has earned his trust to close out tonight's or tomorrow's game.

[CaiGuy]

Been waiting for a 2-Inning Save opportunity from Riggleman. Hughes has earned his trust to close out tonight's or tomorrow's game.

I am afraid we might see him during this game.

[ochoa30]

Iglesias gets too upset about calls that half the time are correct. Didnt see him crying about the pitch 6 inches outside to Belt the other day to end the game. Gotta understand it evens out.

[Kc61]

Wonder how Romano feels about the closer pitching two innings in Game 1.

Sal scheduled to pitch Game 2.

[JaxRed]

I've been a big fan of Riggleman so far, but I don't like his moves this game... we burned our bench.

[corkedbat]

Would someone get TB a frickin' Cubs bib. The slobber fest is sickening.

[CaiGuy]

I've been a big fan of Riggleman so far, but I don't like his moves this game... we burned our bench.

I think he was really banking on getting Winker up at the plate before that double switch.

[Big Klu]

I've been a big fan of Riggleman so far, but I don't like his moves this game... we burned our bench.

That's not hard to do when there are only four guys on the bench to start with, and your starter can only go 5 innings.

[CaiGuy]

It's really hard to have confidence in him getting these last 6 outs right now.

[JaxRed]

I think he was really banking on getting Winker up at the plate before that double switch.

I sure hope that wasn't their strategy....

[ochoa30]

Raisel will be lucky to throw less than 40 pitches today. Hopefully he can settle down.

[lnn6574]

Never seen a pitcher rattled in his own park.


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[Big Klu]

It's really hard to have confidence in him getting these last 6 outs right now.

He's all over the place.

[Kc61]

I really don’t get the two inning save here. It’s like a panic move to win this game.

Why make Raisel work this much with a night game and day game to follow?

[RedTeamGo!]

I really don’t get the two inning save here. It’s like a panic move to win this game.

Why make Raisel work this much with a night game and day game to follow?

I get it, even if he pitches 1 inning here there’s no way he’s going tonight. He will have approx 24 hr to recover.

I like the move.

[CaiGuy]

Big out...

[Big Klu]

WWDD?

(What Would Dibble Do?)

[CaiGuy]

Not ideal...especially of of Rizzo's bat.

[ochoa30]

Awful pitch

[Tom Servo]

ugh

[CaiGuy]

I'd take him out...he looks rattled.

30 pitches and counting.

- - - Updated - - -

Lol, Floro up.

[Kc61]

I get it, even if he pitches 1 inning here there’s no way he’s going tonight. He will have approx 24 hr to recover.

I like the move.

If he throws 30 plus pitches - not unusual for two innings - not sure he can go tomorrow. But whatever, I see your point.

[Tom Servo]

That could not have possibly gone worse. Closer blows the game in the 8th and is now unavailable. Not great decision making by Riggleman but Happ, La Stella, and Almora weren't murder's row either, Iggy.

[ochoa30]

It will really suck to lose this game after the scuffle. Reds need to pull this out to avoid embarrassment.

[Kingspoint]

That could not have possibly gone worse. Closer blows the game in the 8th and is now unavailable. Not great decision making by Riggleman but Happ, La Stella, and Almora weren't murder's row either, Iggy.
It's not Riggleman's fault Iglesias sucked.

[Tom Servo]

It's not Riggleman's fault Iglesias sucked.
Didn't say it was, just that it wasn't a brilliant strategy.

[Kingspoint]

Winning this game is more important than worrying about tomorrow.

[ochoa30]

Didn't say it was, just that it wasn't a brilliant strategy.

Would you say that if he shuts them down easily to win the game? That's what Riggleman expected out of his best reliever and it didnt work out this time.

[Kingspoint]

Votto needs a Save.

[Kc61]

Schebler needs to homer here.

[Kingspoint]

Didn't say it was, just that it wasn't a brilliant strategy.

Well, I loved the strategy with three games in 27 hours.

[Tom Servo]

Would you say that if he shuts them down easily to win the game? That's what Righleman expected out of his best reliever and it didnt work out this time.
I mean what's the best case scenario there, 30 pitches? I get wanting to win the game but let Garrett start the inning and then hope to bring in Iglesias with 2 outs. Using you closer to go to in the first game of a double header with another game tomorrow was not great strategy. I can't believe I'm getting this pushback on such a tepid statement.

[CaiGuy]

I really don't like the 4 man bench. We might be seeing Cruz or a pitcher pinch hit today...maybe even in the 9th.

[JaxRed]

Schebler needs to homer here.

Yep, we need a Schebler homer or a Duvall homer..

[Kc61]

Would you say that if he shuts them down easily to win the game? That's what Righleman expected out of his best reliever and it didnt work out this time.

It’s an unusual use of Iglesias.

I don’t see why it was needed - until the meat of the order came up.

Not blaming Riggleman for the two runs, just seemed a bit odd to me.

[westofyou]

Rizzo is a punk. He gets one in the ribs at some point.

He was probably still mad about the beds in the hotel

[ochoa30]

I mean what's the best case scenario there, 30 pitches? I get wanting to win the game but let Garrett start the inning and then hope to bring in Iglesias with 2 outs. Using you closer to go to in the first game of a double header with another game tomorrow was not great strategy. I can't believe I'm getting this pushback on such a tepid statement.

Not really even disagreeing with you actually. Just saying it's easy to say he messed up in hindsight because it didn't work out. I would have let Garrett go as well.

[Big Klu]

Schebler runs pretty well for a big guy.

[Roy Tucker]

I really don’t like the Cubs.

Too many Cubs fans in the bar here. My daughter is about ready to start a fight.

[westofyou]

Schebler runs pretty well for a big guy.

https://media.tenor.com/images/3c9be0b4a1a2ba2aa1411e8b964be2dc/tenor.gif

[CaiGuy]

I really don’t like the Cubs.

Too many Cubs fans in the bar here. My daughter is about ready to start a fight.

Are they local bandwagon types? Seems like if they came to town, they would be down at the park.

[ochoa30]

Just not feeling like this one is gonna end up a win.

[corkedbat]

DickNick need to be shopping Gennett & Iglesias hard.

[Tom Servo]

Just not feeling like this one is gonna end up a win.
I've resigned myself to the loss.

Oh and Wandy in now to hasten it.

[Kc61]

Reds have Duvall, Hamilton and likely Cruz (hitting the pitcher) in the ninth, with Peraza on deck.

[CaiGuy]

Walkin' Wandy coming in...we'll see how this goes.

[Roy Tucker]

Are they local bandwagon types? Seems like if they came to town, they would be down at the park.

Day-night doubleheader. Drink till game time.

[ochoa30]

I've resigned myself to the loss.

Oh and Wandy in now to hasten it.

Lead off walk confirmed

[Boston Red]

This seems like a textbook case on why bad teams are bad. Leading pretty much the whole way, blow it near the end, and now it seems inevitable we're gonna lose.

[Kc61]

DickNick need to be shopping Gennett & Iglesias hard.

Not sure what Gennett has to do with it, but Iglesias probably hurt his cause in that inning.

[CaiGuy]

Just not feeling like this one is gonna end up a win.

I got that feeling as soon as Iglasias started flipping out after the homer.

He gave a solo HR, big deal, it happens. But I haven't seen a closer inside of his own head like that before. At home. With no one on. It was nuts.

[Tom Servo]

Nice inning from Wandy, actually.

Please just walk this off now.

[Boston Red]

5 pitches. Nice.

[CaiGuy]

Well, I don't like this Baez guy.

[JaxRed]

Reds have Duvall, Hamilton and likely Cruz (hitting the pitcher) in the ninth, with Peraza on deck.

Would you take out your last position player Cruz, to pinch hit? I would not.

[ochoa30]

Baez is a clown. I wish scooter threw that ball away and they still got him at first. Would have been hilarious.

[CaiGuy]

Would you take out your last position player Cruz, to pinch hit? I would not.

He could pinch bunt.

...oh wait, Price isn't here anymore.

[Kc61]

Maybe Duvall will run into one here.

Reds’ lineup, while not unproductive, is kind of thin.

[ochoa30]

Nice inning from Wandy, actually.

Please just walk this off now.

Low odds but maybe Duvall does it again. After him were guaranteed extras.

[JaxRed]

Baez is a clown. I wish scooter threw that ball away and they still got him at first. Would have been hilarious.

He should have walked it over.

[corkedbat]

Billy needs to bunt cause that stroke ain't hitting nuthin.'

You're welcome Mr. Hamilton. :laugh:

[CaiGuy]

Duvall pop-up...to the 10th we'll go.

[Kingspoint]

I mean what's the best case scenario there, 30 pitches? I get wanting to win the game but let Garrett start the inning and then hope to bring in Iglesias with 2 outs. Using you closer to go to in the first game of a double header with another game tomorrow was not great strategy. I can't believe I'm getting this pushback on such a tepid statement.

It's a forum and our opinions differ 180 degrees. We're talking about why. There's no push. We can disagree and it shouldn't change the flow of the discussion. You aren't right. I'm not right. It's a strategy call that I feel was correct for the reason you feel it was wrong...because there-s a game tomorrow.

I'd rather see Iglesias go two innings today, in what should have been a win already and rest tomorrow, more ready for Monday with Hughes next up for a Save chance...if we even get one, which saving a Closer for a scenario that might not even come up when one stands in front of you with a chance to even the series at one a piece.

I would like Hughes to get many more Save chances because Iglesias has piched two innings the day before.

[CaiGuy]

Nice hitting Hamilton! Way to make us eat it.

[Boston Red]

Hamilton HAS to steal third. HAS to.

[KronoRed]

Nothing like putting extra innings on top of a double header.

[CaiGuy]

Thom:

It's going to be 2!
It's going to be 3!
It's going to be 2!
It's going to be 3!
Yeah, its a double.

[Tom Servo]

It's a forum and our opinions differ 180 degrees. We're talking about why. There's no push. We can disagree and it shouldn't change the flow of the discussion. You aren't right. I'm not right. It's a strategy call that I feel was correct for the reason you feel it was wrong...because there-s a game tomorrow.

I'd rather see Iglesias go two innings today, in what should have been a win already and rest tomorrow, more ready for Monday with Hughes next up for a Save chance...if we even get one, which saving a Closer for a scenario that might not even come up when one stands in front of you with a chance to even the series at one a piece.

I would like Hughes to get many more Save chances because Iglesias has piched two innings the day before.
But why not Hughes in the 8th and Iggy in the 9th? That way they would both have little to no limitations.

- - - Updated - - -

Futile AB by Cruz.

[ochoa30]

How funny would it be if Hamilton and Cruz won this game? Probably the 2 worst hitters in the MLB

[CaiGuy]

Cruz is a worse hitter than Hamilton, and I am not exaggerating.

[Tom Servo]

Awful AB by Jose too.

[Kingspoint]

I've never seen a bench this bad on any team in the 50 years I've been watching mlb.

[CaiGuy]

This is why you should bat Votto or Suarez 2nd.

[ochoa30]

Cruz is a worse hitter than Hamilton, and I am not exaggerating.

Hes worse then most high school hitters probably

[KronoRed]

Those at bats were some of the worst of the year.

[Kc61]

The reliever was tough there, I would have liked to see what happened with Billy running.

[corkedbat]

Not sure what Gennett has to do with it, but Iglesias probably hurt his cause in that inning.

I'd deal Gennett while he's hot and before he ends up on the DL. Wit until the deadline and he'll be laid up with something.

[ochoa30]

No good team would ever have Hamilton and Peraza in the same line up. The reds will never be good until one or both is replaced.

[CaiGuy]

No good team would ever have Hamilton and Peraza in the same line up. The reds will never be good until one or both is replaced.

At least bat them both at the bottom if you are stuck playing them...The Reds have other hitters good enough for that situation.

[Roy Tucker]

Sigh.

I think we’re leaving. On to Rheingeist. Hopefully not as many Cubs fans there.

[Kc61]

I'd deal Gennett while he's hot and before he ends up on the DL. Wit until the deadline and he'll be laid up with something.

Does Gennett have an injury? Not sure why you’re assuming an injury.

Seems to be what people want, eventually the team will have no offense along with no pitching.

But the minor leagues will be dynamite (maybe).

Whatever, extra innings.

[ochoa30]

I like Floro but hes probably getting an L today

[KronoRed]

Sigh.

I think we’re leaving. On to Rheingeist. Hopefully not as many Cubs fans there.
Start that fight, they can't arrest you both.

[RedTeamGo!]

Hes worse then most high school hitters probably

Lol, Cruz would bat .700 in high school

[ochoa30]

Lol, Cruz would bat .700 in high school

I'd hope so. Was clearly being sarcastic.

[CaiGuy]

Lol, Cruz would bat .700 in high school

OPS? ;)

- - - Updated - - -

Wow, what a bad non-call on strike 3.

[ochoa30]

That pitch was right there. Calls like that are not acceptable.

[Tom Servo]

Nice inning from Floro.

[CaiGuy]

That pitch was right there. Calls like that are not acceptable.

Was like 2 inches up and to the right of the corner, in the zone.

[RedTeamGo!]

I'd hope so. Was clearly being sarcastic.

Can never tell these days

[Kc61]

Reds’ main hitters coming up.

[RedTeamGo!]

Floro fo sho

[CaiGuy]

Nice inning from Floro.

Here I was very mildly upset that they cut Ariel Hernandez loose for him. Shows what I know, my OOTP dominance be darned.

[corkedbat]

Does Gennett have an injury? Not sure why you’re assuming an injury.

Seems to be what people want, eventually the team will have no offense along with no pitching.

But the minor leagues will be dynamite (maybe).

Whatever, extra innings.

I'm assuming it because it's the Reds SOB. Have a guy with value...piddle, piddle, piddle...dwaddle, dwaddle, dwaddle...DL...no deal.

[Kingspoint]

But why not Hughes in the 8th and Iggy in the 9th? That way they would both have little to no limitations.

- - - Updated - - -

Futile AB by Cruz.

Because I think Iglesias should easilybe able to get 10 2-inning saves a yearand that Hughes should be able to pick up the slack. Would rather have Hughes ready for a Save opportunity tonight and tomorrow and Iggy rested tonight and tomorrow. Your strategy is just as valid. I'm just looking to use the bullpen differently.

Didn't know Iggy was going to lose it mentally, as he's the most reliable, and screw things up for the next two games, too. Riggleman has a problem to deal with this game, tonight and tomorrow now.

[ochoa30]

Was like 2 inches up and to the right of the corner, in the zone.

Yeah, I understand it's tougher to call a pitch when the catcher has to reach for it but you just cant miss that. Not low and not close to outside. Got a bit of a make up call on the last one though. Nice job Dylan!

[CaiGuy]

3-4-5 up...please end this.

- - - Updated - - -

Ump wants to end this...really squeezing both sides' pitchers right now.

[Kingspoint]

No good team would ever have Hamilton and Peraza in the same line up. The reds will never be good until one or both is replaced.

Compound that with a 4-man bench of weak hitters, and I'd be shopping for a 30-year old who can at least hit .275 with a .750 OPS right now just to make the clubhouse feel better.

[CaiGuy]

Boo...he didn't go.

[Kc61]

3-4-5 up...please end this.

- - - Updated - - -

Ump wants to end this...really squeezing both sides' pitchers right now.

Not that time, Scooter gets a tough strike three on a check swing.

- - - Updated - - -

Reds should look at the way the Cubs were built. They can’t follow it completely due to finances, but it’s instructive.

Draft bats.

Buy starting pitching.

Above average bullpen arms.

[ochoa30]

Compound that with a 4-man bench of weak hitters, and I'd be shopping for a 30-year old who can at least hit .275 with a .750 OPS right now just to make the clubhouse feel better.

It's a bad roster. It really is. Some good hitters who cant field. Really no decent youth to speak of besides Mahle and Castillo. Bullpen is decent but that's about it.

[CaiGuy]

Reds should look at the way the Cubs were built. They can’t follow it completely due to finances, but it’s instructive.

Draft bats.

Buy starting pitching.

Above average bullpen arms.

I don't think this team will ever be able to pay market value for pitching. Look at the last big contract they handed to a pitcher.

[Kc61]

It's a bad roster. It really is. Some good hitters who cant field. Really no decent youth to speak of besides Mahle and Castillo. Bullpen is decent but that's about it.

It’s ok, the Daytona A+ squad is excellent.

[Tom Servo]

It's a bad roster. It really is. Some good hitters who cant field. Really no decent youth to speak of besides Mahle and Castillo. Bullpen is decent but that's about it.
Suarez and Barnhart can't field?

[ochoa30]

Suarez and Barnhart can't field?

Those two are solid all around but 2 players ain't gonna get it done

[Kc61]

I don't think this team will ever be able to pay market value for pitching. Look at the last big contract they handed to a pitcher.

I said that the Reds have a different financial picture. But there are things they can do.

They can trade for existing affordable pitching contracts. They can come up with a dynamite bullpen.

But all this requires making moves beyond compiling prospects.

[CaiGuy]

It's a bad roster. It really is. Some good hitters who cant field. Really no decent youth to speak of besides Mahle and Castillo. Bullpen is decent but that's about it.

There's a solid core. They do need another starting caliber player or 2, to push a few of the current starters to the bench. A legitimate RF or CF would be nice, for example.

Easier said than done.

[Kc61]

There's a solid core. They do need another starting caliber player or 2, to push a few of the current starters to the bench. A legitimate RF or CF would be nice, for example.

Easier said than done.

There is not a solid core. You can’t have a solid core with a 5.50 starting pitching ERA. A solid core requires some pitching.

[CaiGuy]

There is not a solid core. You can’t have a solid core with a 5.50 starting pitching ERA. A solid core requires some pitching.

I was speaking to the position player side.

The starting pitching is a dumpster fire with only a few potential bright spots, no doubt.

[ochoa30]

There's a solid core. They do need another starting caliber player or 2, to push a few of the current starters to the bench. A legitimate RF or CF would be nice, for example.

Easier said than done.

I think the outfield has been the biggest disappointment easily for me this year. Not one guy looks like a starter on a playoff caliber team. Obviously Winker needs more time for us to know for sure but it's not looking great considering his lack of power and poor defense.

[Tom Servo]

There is not a solid core. You can’t have a solid core with a 5.50 starting pitching ERA. A solid core requires some pitching.
And who is stinking the joint up the most? The veteran.

[ochoa30]

I was speaking to the position player side.

The starting pitching is a dumpster fire with only a few potential bright spots, no doubt.

How many players make up a solid core? By my count they have 3 guys? I dont think that's enough

- - - Updated - - -

Is it me or is Votto looking old? I think they need to get him more days off. Floro could have gotten to first before he did

[Tom Servo]

I think the outfield has been the biggest disappointment easily for me this year. Not one guy looks like a starter on a playoff caliber team. Obviously Winker needs more time for us to know for sure but it's not looking great considering his lack of power and poor defense.
Didn't we basically know this already? We knew what Hamilton and Duvall were going into this season. Schebler takes a lot of heat but has been fine. He continues to handle lefties fairly well, even. Not a building block guy but solid. Winker still has barely 250 big league ABs.

[BluegrassRedleg]

Skeeter Barnes reference!!!

[ochoa30]

Didn't we basically know this already? We knew what Hamilton and Duvall were going into this season. Schebler takes a lot of heat but has been fine. He continues to handle lefties fairly well, even. Winker still has barely 250 big league ABs.

Duvall and Hamilton have been considerably worse then they ever have been. I agree on Schebler and think he will get hot again soon. Winker I just dont know but he gets all season obviously.

[CaiGuy]

How many players make up a solid core? By my count they have 3 guys? I dont think that's enough

Votto and Suarez are All-star caliber starters. Barnhart and Scooter are starters on virtually any team. Some disagree, but Winker has the pedigree and I think he will be really solid hitter and fine in LF (only). He's the type of hitter the Reds should be hoarding, solid high-OBP, pro-hitter types.

Shebler, Duvall, Hamiton, and Peraza are all MLB caliber guys, just not top-rate starters.

That only leaves SS, CF, and RF as positions that could use much improvement. Grab one of those (again, easier said that done) while keeping the Scheblers of the world as depth, and the position player side would be really solid, up there with anybody.

Pitching still sucks tough.

[Kc61]

And who is stinking the joint up the most? The veteran.

The veteran had multiple surgeries. He is a from past teams. He’s around because of his contract.

But you’re kidding yourself if you think this team will ever succeed just waiting for prospect pitchers.

Theo Epstein understood that.

And what’s worse, after all the drafting, and all the youth - the AAA and AA teams aren’t very good. You’d think this rebuilding club would be a beast in the minors. Not in the high minors.

They need more proven players, primarily pitching.

[BluegrassRedleg]

C'mon, Scheb. Geezus.

[ochoa30]

Votto and Suarez are All-star caliber starters. Barnhart and Scooter are starters on virtually any team. So disagree, but Winker has the pedigree. I think he will be really solid hitter and fine in LF (only).

Shebler, Duvall, Hamiton, and Peraza are all MLB caliber guys, just not top-rate starters.

That only leaves SS, CF, and RF as positions that could use much improvement. Grab one of those (again, easier said that done) while keeping the Scheblers of the world as depth, and the position player side would be really solid, up there with anybody.

Pitching still sucks tough.

Those guys are major league caliber but they are most likely bench players on a good team. I left Gennett off because hes not gonna be here beyond this year or next at latest and the reds wont be good by then.

[CaiGuy]

Something brewing, can't believe Shebler didn't get to 3rd there.

[Kc61]

Thom, stop talking about bunting!

[ochoa30]

Be patient please!

[JaxRed]

Once again, a base runner, does not look at the 3rd base coach. Winker was the other

[Tom Servo]

But you’re kidding yourself if you think this team will ever succeed just waiting for prospect pitchers.

Buddy, I've been beating this same drum too. But your thing is that you went from "give them all the time" to "I am done with waiting". There is a middle ground. They still need guys who they can count on, but you can still give Castillo, Mahle, and Romano some time.

[CaiGuy]

Those guys are major league caliber but they are most likely bench players on a good team. I left Gennett off because hes not gonna be here beyond this year or next at latest and the reds wont be good by then.

Well, I am talking about the here and now.

Votto, Suarez, Gennet, and Barnhart are the core. I think Winker joins that group. Add to it.

[Tom Servo]

Bases loaded with no outs!

[ochoa30]

Well, I am talking about the here and now.

Votto, Suarez, Gennet, and Barnhart are the core. I think Winker joins that group. Add to it.

That's fair. Still think it's a weak core considering all factors involved. Let's hope Senzel and a few others add to it soon though.

[CaiGuy]

The veteran had multiple surgeries. He is a remnant of past teams. He’s around because of his contract.

But you’re kidding yourself if you think this team will ever succeed just waiting for prospect pitchers.

Theo Epstein understood that.

And what’s worse, after all the drafting, and all the youth - the AAA and AA teams aren’t very good. You’d think this rebuilding club would be a beast in the minors. Not in the high minors.

They need more proven players, primarily pitching.

They can't afford to buy them.

The thing they need to do, is learn to develop them. Until they can do that, nothing matters.