Reds @ Dodgers 5/21/08

[Joseph]

Patterson cf
Hairston ss
Griffey rf
Phillips2b
Dunn lf
Encarnacion 3b
Votto 1b
Bako c
Cueto p

[Tommyjohn25]

Put me on record. The Reds win 4 of the next 5.

[SirFelixCat]

at tonights game again. Go Reds...just one "W" to get off the schneid boys!

[OnBaseMachine]

Hairston at SS. Looks like Dusty didn't learn his lesson.

[Tom Servo]

Hairston at SS. Looks like Dusty didn't learn his lesson.
He never does. Patterson making an out in the leadoff spot right now proves that.

[OnBaseMachine]

They said on Reds Live winds could gust to 50 mph tonight.

[Degenerate39]

How much longer can Patterson hit leadoff? This is getting ridiculous. He's a good centerfielder but that's no reason to have him leadoff Dusty. I hope Bob or Jock intervine soon.

[RedFanAlways1966]

Hairston hurt or just not running on that groundout to 3rd base?

[flyer85]

first two batters, taken two strikes and swung at 3 balls

[Big Klu]

Hairston hurt or just not running on that groundout to 3rd base?

I wondered the same thing.

[flyer85]

I remember when Hairston and Patterson were signed and some wondered where did they fi t in. I don't think anyone guessed CF and SS batting 1-2.

[OnBaseMachine]

Bad start for Johnny. 0-2 fastball right down the middle and Pierre singles.

[Caveat Emperor]

I hate Corey Patterson batting leadoff, but then I look over at Juan Pierre and his $50+ million deal and think "well, it could be worse..."

[KronoRed]

I remember when Hairston and Patterson were signed and some wondered where did they fi t in. I don't think anyone guessed CF and SS batting 1-2.

I did, but then I was called a negative nelly
;)

[Caveat Emperor]

Janish takes over at SS for Patterson and immediately makes a great play.

[redsfaninbsg]

Have they gotten Pierre out this series, they just said Hairston was injured. Great play by Janish as well as he enters the game.

[RedFanAlways1966]

Another SS hurt... Hairston did get hurt on the groundout to SS in the top of the 1st. Janish in the game.

[RedFanAlways1966]

Strange to see a catcher batting 3rd (Martin). REDS fans are used to a catcher batting 7th or lower. Wonder when the last time a REDS catcher batted 4th or higher?

[11larkin11]

If Hairston has to go to the DL, does that force the Reds hand to bring Rosales up?




(Frazier, Valaika?:D)

[RedlegJake]

Well, Paul, you are starting to remind me of the way Roy Hobbs got in the lineup. Please, now play like him.

[Caveat Emperor]

I'll kick in a little PBP before bed.

1 on, 1 out

RUSSEL MARTIN is your batter. TV tells me he is a career .345 hitter against the Reds. I'm beginning to think everyone in the NL hits over .300 against the Reds.

Cueto gets ahead of Martin 1-2, and Martin fouls off a few pitches just to be annoying before striking out an inside pitch.

Cueto - the K is silent.

2 out.

[MikeS21]

Strange to see a catcher batting 3rd (Martin). REDS fans are used to a catcher batting 7th or lower. Wonder when the last time a REDS catcher batted 4th or higher?
Eddie Taubensee? Or back further with Johnny Bench?

[RedlegJake]

My guess is Bo Diaz

[Caveat Emperor]

1 on, 2 out

JEFF KENT is up, and looking quite creepy without his trademark porn-stache. You can't just shave a mustache off like that -- the 'stache is a lifestyle decision, respect it.

Cueto gets ahead, again, 1-2 and throws over to 1B to give the runner a 'sup. Kent flies out routinely to Griffey, who fights the 50 MPH wind to haul the ball in.

A 1-2-3-4 inning for Cueto.

[RedFanAlways1966]

That is some good PBP (and other stories) Caveat. :thumbup:

[Tom Servo]

Dunner! Wheels!

[NC Reds]

Dunn gets a hustle double.

[Caveat Emperor]

Top 2, 0 out

ADAM DUNN up to bat, with the Dodger's employing the Shift.

Dunn check-swings and hits a ball the other way against the Shift, and motors into 2nd for a double.

[RedsManRick]

Check swing dribbler down the 3B line for a double from Dunner.

[WebScorpion]

Another SS hurt... Hairston did get hurt on the groundout to SS in the top of the 1st. Janish in the game.

The Baseball Gods smile on us today!

[RedFanAlways1966]

Dunn... half-swing double that rolls about 120 feet down the 3rd base line. Gotta like the shift!

[reds44]

Hairston going to DL makes a spot for Bruce.

:D

[Caveat Emperor]

T2, 1 on, 0 out

E-Z EDWIN up with a RISP. Actually, since Dunn isn't much of a runner, it's more of Lumberer in scoring position.

Edwin bloops one to center, with Dunn advancing after the ball falls.

Reds = in Business.

[WebScorpion]

I'll kick in a little PBP before bed.

1 on, 1 out

RUSSEL MARTIN is your batter. TV tells me he is a career .345 hitter against the Reds. I'm beginning to think everyone in the NL hits over .300 against the Reds.

Cueto gets ahead of Martin 1-2, and Martin fouls off a few pitches just to be annoying before striking out an inside pitch.

Cueto - the K is silent.

2 out.

Gameday said Cueto hit 97 against Martin YOW! :eek:

[Tom Servo]

Get 'em on...

[mbgrayson]

Hairston going to DL makes a spot for Bruce.

:D

Does that Bruce feller play shortstop? If so, he can hit second for Dusty...

[Caveat Emperor]

T2 - 1st and 3rd, 0 out

JOEY VOTTO up, with RISP but also up with RIGIDPP (Runners in Ground into Double Play Position) -- which was an important stat when Sean Casey was manning the ol' #3 spot. Joey's been in a bit of a funk, and not of the Geroge Clinton kind.

Votto chops to 2b, scoring Dunn and reaching on an FC.

1-0 Reds.

[Kc61]

If Hairston has to go to the DL, does that force the Reds hand to bring Rosales up?




(Frazier, Valaika?:D)

Rosales is at .219 and not really a natural shortstop. Maybe Andy Green, more of a veteran, but he hasn't hit either.

There really is no SS available at AAA. My guess is that, if Hairston is out, the Reds use Janish as the starter and Phillips as the backup SS. Freel would play more infield. My guess is Andy Phillips would come up to add righty punch off the bench.

[Tom Servo]

Oh Jesse Jackson, you love your food.

[reds44]

Does that Bruce feller play shortstop? If so, he can hit second for Dusty...
I'm really not ready to see Adam Rosales up here. He isn't even hitting in AAA. I'd rather call Bruce up and have Phillips as the emergency SS.

[WebScorpion]

Does that Bruce feller play shortstop? If so, he can hit second for Dusty...
Nah, he's a center fielder aka leadoff hitter. ;)

[Caveat Emperor]

T2 - 1 on, 1 out

PAUL BAKO steps in, looking to continue his storybook season. I'd imagine he would be part of the SI "Bizarro Baseball" story if anyone gave a crap what was happening in Cincinnati. Actually, if you're writing a Bizarro Baseball story, wouldn't it focus on teams like Pittsburgh and Cincy who never get any ink?

Bako GIDP. Joy.

1-0 Reds heading to the Bottom 2.

[reds44]

Rosales is at .219 and not really a natural shortstop. Maybe Andy Green, more of a veteran, but he hasn't hit either.

There really is no SS available at AAA. My guess is that, if Hairston is out, the Reds use Janish as the starter and Phillips as the backup SS. Freel would play more infield. My guess is Andy Phillips would come up to add righty punch off the bench.
JAY. f'in. BRUCE.

[Kc61]

JAY. f'in. BRUCE.

Bruce won't get any PT if he comes up for Hairston. Bruce needs to start.

Of course, Bruce could play right, Griffey could move to first, Votto to center, and Patterson could be the back up shortstop. The defense would probably be just as good as now.

[Caveat Emperor]

B2 - Reds 1, Smog Dodgers 0

JAMES LONEY is leading off the inning. GG tease Pete Rose appearing the broadcast booth later in the game -- I'm wondering what else he could possibly have left to plug (Pete: The Coloring Book?).

Cueto runs the count full on a couple wild ones (I blame the wind) before giving Loney a free pass down to 1st.

1 on.

[Caveat Emperor]

B2 - 1 on, 0 out

MATT KEMP - he of much man-love on RedsZone - up. I'm of the mind you plunk him here, just as a "thanks a ton" for the defense over the last two nights.

Cueto gets up 0-2 and Kemp fouls the next offering up. GG talks about Kemp's poor attitude and how he's a changed man now - worry when he starts calling himself Dos Siete.

Kemp slices one into RF, advancing Loney to 3rd.

2 on, 0 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

another 0-2 hit. Kemp is known to chase the slider down and away yet he didn't throw it at all. That wasn't a bad pitch though.

[Tom Servo]

Well this is just going great.

[Caveat Emperor]

B2, 2 on, 0 out

BLAKE DEWITT up with a chance to do some real damage. Cueto unleashes a wild pitch, allowing Loney to score and Kemp to move to 2nd.

1-1 tie game.

[WebScorpion]

Did he just back DeWitt off the plate?

[OnBaseMachine]

Passed ball/wild pitch ties the game.

Still can't believe they didn't throw a slider to Kemp on 0-2. He chases everytime.

[VR]

I'd be out there right now if I were the pitching coach

[Caveat Emperor]

B2, 1 on, 0 out

DEWITT still De-Batting. He falls behind 1-2 fouling off an offering from Cueto. Cueto misses on a fastball on the outside corner to run the count full.

Dewitt grounds out to the 2b. Grande prattles on about it being a good play to advance the runner.

1 on, 1 out.

[mbgrayson]

That wild pitch actually looked like it hit DeWitt's shoe. He didnt say anything so the runner on third could score on a 'wild pitch'....

[WebScorpion]

Time for a couple quick K's ... hit your spots Johnny. :thumbup:

[OnBaseMachine]

Poor command from Cueto tonight.

[Tom Servo]

Hu's up?

[OnBaseMachine]

Bad defense continues.

[mbgrayson]

Hairston left the game with 'dizzyness' due to dehydration.

[Chip R]

Reds fall victim to the squeeze again.

[Caveat Emperor]

B2, 1 on, 1 out

CHIN-LUNG HU batting, with the PA system playing "Who Are You" no less. Cueto starts him off with 3 balls -- because that's what you're supposed to do to a hitter that is batting under .200.

Hu lays down the bunt on the squeeze. Cueto attempts to flip the ball to Bako, but it doesn't work.

Run scores, 2-1 LA.

[CTA513]

The Reds have really helped give away runs this series.

[OnBaseMachine]

This is looking like the April/early May Reds.

[Kc61]

The Reds have really help give away runs this series.

I thought he was going to score whether or not the bunt was fielded cleanly. Would have taken an outstanding play to cut off that run IMO.

[flyer85]

could be a short night, Cueto is all over the place

[Caveat Emperor]

B2, 1 on, 1 out

HIROKI KURODA up in a clear sacrafice situation. Again, Cueto starts the AB out with 2 straight balls. His command has looked progressively worse in each start since his debut, not a good sign, sports fans.

Kuroda bunts down the 1b line, apparently fair, and sacrifices successfully. His family will be greatly honored.

2 outs.

[CTA513]

I thought he was going to score whether or not the bunt was fielded cleanly. Would have taken an outstanding play to cut off that run IMO.

The wild pitch gave them a run and also put Kemp in scoring position.

[Kc61]

Reds need to fight for this game. It's ridiculous that they haven't won in this stadium since 2005.

[Caveat Emperor]

B2, 1 on , 2 outs

JUAN PIERRE, the most famous Hispanic Frenchman of them all, steps in to face Cueto. According the media guide, Juan dislikes his last name not because it sounds french, but because it contains one of his three least favorite letters: O B and P.

Pierre lines out to Votto and seems pleased that he didn't reach base.

Heading to the 3rd, LA2, CIN1

[Falls City Beer]

This is looking like the April/early May Reds.

That's pretty much this team; not just a temporary incarnation.

[RedlegJake]

CE you are funny as all heck

[Caveat Emperor]

T3, LA 2 REDS 1

JOHNNY CUETO leads off for the Reds, tries a drag bunt causing Corey Patterson to shout "COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT" from the on deck circle.

Cueto bounces out.

[Caveat Emperor]

T3, 1 out

COREY PATTERSON steps in, disappointed at being in LA because there he becomes one of many people who are millionaires for no apparent reason (he enjoys feeling special elsewhere).

Patterson grounds to 3rd, DeWitt making a DeDiving stop to rob him of a base hit.

2 outs.

[OnBaseMachine]

That's how it usually goes for the Reds - get robbed of hits while giving other teams two or three extra outs a game.

[Caveat Emperor]

T3, 2 out

PAUL JANISH up for the first time this game. Hairston left the game with Dizzyness (now who spent too much time on the teacup ride at Disneyland today?), so Janish gets the call off the bench.

Janish works the count full, showing some of that elusive plate-discipline, before hitting one off the end of the bat to CF.

1-2-3 go the Reds.

[OnBaseMachine]

Another good atbat by Janish as he runs the count full before flying out.

[OnBaseMachine]

The wind is really whipping right now.

[OnBaseMachine]

BTW Kuroda has thrown only 33 pitches through three inning.

That 2-2 pitch to Ethier looked like strike 3.

[OnBaseMachine]

Corey Patterson misplays a flyball into a double.

[Caveat Emperor]

B3, LA 2 - CIN 1

ANDRE ETHIER leads the inning off. Cueto decides to be a little different and shows poor command, starting the AB with 2 straight balls. He battles back to run the count full 3-2 (pitch counts? we don't need no stinkin' pitch counts).

Ethier uppercuts one to left-center and nobody has a clue what is going on, as it falls under a diving Corey Patterson.

Double for Ethier.

[SirFelixCat]

the wind is insane here at the stadiium. any flyball will be an adventure

[Caveat Emperor]

B3, 1 on, 0 out

The wind is blowing, we get it. It happens from time to time. For a team that plays in the same division as Chicago, this shouldn't be an adventure.

RUSSELL MARTIN pops out somewhat routinely to Joey Votto.

1 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

What stinks is that will count as an earned run against Cueto if/when he scores.

another routine popup is pushed foul into the stands.

[KronoRed]

Glad to have CE in on PBP tonight :)

[SirFelixCat]

Corey Patterson misplays a flyball into a double.
not his fault. the wind is swirling with 40+ mph gusts. the flags are blowing in but the winds coming from our right (were behind the plate er rows back). man the wind is gusting HARD.

[Caveat Emperor]

B3, 1 on, 1 out

JEFF KENT up - I used to suspect Kent of juicing, but now I suspect him of feeding on the flesh of the living. Seriously, has this guy aged since the late 90s?

Kent pops down the right field line and the wind apparently carries the ball to Sacramento, according to Grande's reaction.

Cueto evens the count at 2-2 with a swinging strike before inducing a groundout to Janish for the 2nd out.

2 outs.

[flyer85]

Corey Patterson misplays a flyball into a double.not sure it was a misplay, I suspect a gust just knocked it out of the air.

[OnBaseMachine]

I wonder how much effect the wind has on a pitchers stuff on a night like this?

[Falls City Beer]

Remember: if a pitcher struggles, it's the D's fault.

[Caveat Emperor]

B3, 1 on, 2 outs

JAMES LONEY up and Cueto starts him off with a breaking ball -- though based on the description of hurricane force winds we're getting, any pitch might be considered a breaking ball tonight.

Cueto evens the count at 2-2, then goes to a full count because dammit, that's what he does best. Cueto seems to have lost that "killer" instinct when pitching, he doesn't get the strikeout pitch when he needs it.

Loney takes Ball 4.

[OnBaseMachine]

That double is costing Cueto a boatload of pitches.

[OnBaseMachine]

Remember: if a pitcher struggles, it's the D's fault.

So that double was Cueto's fault?

[Falls City Beer]

That double is costing Cueto a boatload of pitches.

Cueto could help himself by not walking the Scythian hordes, too.

[Caveat Emperor]

B3, 2 on, 2 outs

MATT KEMP up - and down promptly as Cueto strikes out Kemp with a slider.

Cueto - running up the pitches, but avoiding the standing 10 count.

[OnBaseMachine]

Cueto made Kemp look foolish on three sliders. I don't understand why he didn't make him chase that pitch in his first atbat.

[Falls City Beer]

So that double was Cueto's fault?

I don't think an offensive event has gone against Cueto that hasn't been asterisked with *the fault of the defense.

[OnBaseMachine]

Cueto could help himself by not walking the Scythian hordes, too.

He's walked Loney twice, that's it. And the second one wouldn't have happened if not for the wind blown double.

[OnBaseMachine]

I don't think an offensive event has gone against Cueto that hasn't been asterisked with *the fault of the defense.

So, you think a routine flyball turned into a double is the pitchers fault?

[PuffyPig]

I don't think an offensive event has gone against Cueto that hasn't been asterisked with *the fault of the defense.

I'd be surprised if any said it was the defense's fault with any HR Cueto has given up, assuming you call a HR an "offensive event" (I would).

[OnBaseMachine]

How come the opposing center fielder can't turn routine flyballs into doubles? ;)

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, LA 2 CIN 1

KEN GRIFFEY JR. leads off and shows no desire to be in the batters box, swinging away at pitch #1 and flying routinely to center.

597 must be all kinds of unlucky.

1 out.

[Falls City Beer]

So, you think a routine flyball turned into a double is the pitchers fault?

Are you watching the game? Sometimes flyballs fall in for hits. Doesn't account for having thrown 70 pitches through 3.

[Hoosier Red]

I'll take FCB's side on this one, no the double isn't Cueto's fault. Everything that happened afterwards is his responsibility though.

This used to happen with Reitsma all the time who had to lead the world in Unearned Runs given up.
It sucks that there was a wind blown double but you can't blame a walk to a batter three batters later on that.
Things happen. It's all about how you react to them.

[Falls City Beer]

I'd be surprised if any said it was the defense's fault with any HR Cueto has given up, assuming you call a HR an "offensive event" (I would).

I suspect we're moving that direction, though. If you believe these game threads, Cueto's never made an ill-advised pitch or had a poor performance.

Who knows? Maybe 22 year olds really *do* struggle in retiring MLB hitters.

[OnBaseMachine]

Are you watching the game? Sometimes flyballs fall in for hits. Doesn't account for having thrown 70 pitches through 3.

Yeah. I'm watching the game and it was a routine flyball that doesn't fall in if the wind isn't blowing. Anyone watching the game can tell you that clearly wasn't the fault of the pitcher.

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, 1 out

BRANDON PHILLIPS up, fouling a pitch off, taking a pitch, and then swinging at a bad ball in the dirt (even by his standards).

Phillips smashes a ball down the LF line and cruises into 2nd easily. He probably could've taken 3rd too, given how awful Pierre's arm is.

1 on, 1 out.

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, 1 on, 1 out

BRANDON PHILLIPS looks at 3rd and says "I'll take that."

B-Phil on 3rd with the steal.

[OnBaseMachine]

Good atbat by Dunn to draw the walk. He's locked in at the plate.

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, 1 on, 1 out

ADAM DUNN, who right now is so hot that NASA is considering sending a probe to study him, takes 3 pitches to get ahead 3-0 then fouls two pitches off to run the count full.

Dunn takes ball 4 and walks, in a manly fashion, down to 1st base.

2 on, 1 out

[OnBaseMachine]

Pete Rose in the booth.

[reds44]

I am without video tonight, so I am loving the PBP Caveat.

Gracias.

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, 2 on, 1 out

EDDIE ENCARNACION lines out to CF, B-Phil challenges the arm of Matt Kemp and finally wins.

2-2 tie ballgame.

[OnBaseMachine]

T4, 2 on, 1 out

EDDIE ENCARNACION lines out to CF, B-Phil challenges the arm of Matt Kemp and finally wins.

2-2 tie ballgame.

That ball was smoked. EdE has hit the ball hard twice tonight so hopefully he's breaking out of the slump.

[Caveat Emperor]

T4, 1 on, 2 out

JOEY VOTTO up hacking immediately and flying out to CF. Votto right now looks like he's in the kind of slump only a trip to a local Goshen watering hole could cure.

3 outs, but a tie ballgame.

[OnBaseMachine]

Nice play Phillips but Votto drops the ball.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, Tie Game 2-2

BLAKE DEWITT is your leadoff DeHitter. DeWitt grounds into the hole and is almost robbed of a hit by Brandon Phillips, but is called safe at 1st when the throw nearly pulls him off the bag.

Good play by Phillips, tough play by Votto but I can't fault him for it.

1 on.

[Patrick Bateman]

Yeah. I'm watching the game and it was a routine flyball that doesn't fall in if the wind isn't blowing. Anyone watching the game can tell you that clearly wasn't the fault of the pitcher.

I symphasize with your stance OBM, but the fact of the matter is that Cueto has had very poor command tonight. Walking a few batters already, going deep into counts, and not hitting his location well enough to fool hitters with his stuff. Fielding problems or not, the guy has 71 pitches through 3 innings. When Cueto has reasonable command, he can cruise through an opposition like the Dodgers. Simply put, he's struggling tonight, even after accounting for plays that realistically should be made, or have little to do with Cueto making poor pitches.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, 1 on, 0 out

CHIN LUNG HU -- no relation to Street Fighter II vixen Chun-Li -- pops up to CF and is carried by the mystical and magical wind in LA that apparently is so awful that it makes normal mortals look like keystone cops for a base hit.

2 on, 0 out

[OnBaseMachine]

I symphasize with your stance OBM, but the fact of the matter is that Cueto has had very poor command tonight. Walking a few batters already, going deep into counts, and not hitting his location well enough to fool hitters with his stuff. Fielding problems or not, the guy has 71 pitches through 3 innings. When Cueto has reasonable command, he can cruise through an opposition like the Dodgers. Simply put, he's struggling tonight, even after accounting for plays that realistically should be made, or have little to do with Cueto making poor pitches.

I said earlier in the game Cueto has poor command tonight but clearly the wind/defense hasn't helped. As I type this another wind blown single drops in. But it's clear to me he doesn't have his best stuff.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, 2 on, 0 out

HIROKI KURODA up in an obvious sacrificing situation, and he does just that - sending the runners to 2nd and 3rd.

2 on, 1 out.

[Cedric]

Cueto has pitched pretty darn good tonight. With some average luck and decent defense he wouldn't be near as high in his pitch count and probably wouldn't have 2 runs earned. This team just has weaknesses all over the field and it kills a pitchers confidence.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, 2 on, 1 out

JUAN PIERRE up with a chance to put the Dodger's back on top - but becomes seemingly the first batter tonight to not get ahead against Cueto. Once again, Pierre finds new and exciting ways to not earn his bloated contract. Corey Patterson gives an approving nod from his CF position.

Cueto battles back from 0-2 to even the count at 2-2 before inducing a lineout to 2b. All runners hold.

2 on, 2 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

Walk loads the bases. Very poor command tonight by Cueto.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, 2 on, 2 out

ANDRE ETHIER up looking for the all-elusive 2 out RBI. Pete Rose in the booth, actually being somewhat funny. Look for autographed copies of this broadcast to appear on eBay.

Cueto walks Ethier to load the sacks.

[OnBaseMachine]

Passed ball on Bako scores a run. The defense is like the bad news bears.

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, sacks full, 2 out

RUSSELL MARTIN up and Cueto uncorks a wild pitch off the mitt of Bako that plates a run.

LA 3, CIN 2.

[Edskin]

[QUOTE=Caveat Emperor;1638595] Pete Rose in the booth, actually being somewhat funny. Look for autographed copies of this broadcast to appear on eBay.

QUOTE]

:thumbup:

[flyer85]

Reds seem to enjoy giving runs away

[Patrick Bateman]

Cueto has pitched pretty darn good tonight. With some average luck and decent defense he wouldn't be near as high in his pitch count and probably wouldn't have 2 runs earned. This team just has weaknesses all over the field and it kills a pitchers confidence.

I disagree. Cueto's faced 19 batters, yet only struck out 2 guys. That illustrates the point that he really hasn't located his pitches well enough to get guys out on his own volition. His stuff is good enough that when he has his commandm guys can't touch him.

I do agree that it's only hurt him that balls have found holes, and the Reds are well on their way to another putrid defensive game. In any event, I haven't enjoyed watching the Reds attempt to keep the opposition from scoring. It's been bad on all fronts IMO.

[Cedric]

Pete is just a great guy to listen to. He's entertaining and actually can get George Grande to lighten up.

[REDREAD]

Cueto has pitched pretty darn good tonight. With some average luck and decent defense he wouldn't be near as high in his pitch count and probably wouldn't have 2 runs earned. This team just has weaknesses all over the field and it kills a pitchers confidence.

Marty thinks he needs to go back to Louisville because he's "not producing" :lol:

[Edskin]

If I'm Dusty, I make the Reds take a 3 hour infield practice in San Diego tomorrow. I'm not kidding either. But then again, I'm not Dusty :)

[Caveat Emperor]

B4, 2 on, 2 out

RUSSELL MARTIN still batting with a chance to add to the now 1 run Dodgers lead. Martin hits a flyball to -- OH MY GOD, it's the Wind!!! Run for your lives!! Save the Children!! Why God, Why?!?! The Wind Will DOOM US ALL!!

Patterson makes the catch routinely to end the inning.

[OnBaseMachine]

I disagree. Cueto's faced 19 batters, yet only struck out 2 guys. That illustrates the point that he really hasn't located his pitches well enough to get guys out on his own volition. His stuff is good enough that when he has his commandm guys can't touch him.

I do agree that it's only hurt him that balls have found holes, and the Reds are well on their way to another putrid defensive game. In any event, I haven't enjoyed watching the Reds attempt to keep the opposition from scoring. It's been bad on all fronts IMO.

Agreed. Cueto didn't have very good stuff tonight, however, the defense was awful behind him. That third run should be unearned considering it was a passed ball.

[Cedric]

This is easily the weirdest game of the year for me. Cueto hasn't looked great by any stretch but he has had some terrible luck. It's easy to lose command and look flustered after bloops fall in and your catcher looks like Taubensee circa 99. It's just been a weird one.

[OnBaseMachine]

Marty thinks he needs to go back to Louisville because he's "not producing" :lol:

Typical Marty to turn on a young player. I feel sorry for Jay Bruce when he goes into his first slump.

[REDREAD]

Strange to see a catcher batting 3rd (Martin). REDS fans are used to a catcher batting 7th or lower. Wonder when the last time a REDS catcher batted 4th or higher?

I think LaRue batted 2nd a few times. But other than, probably Tauby. He batted cleanup a few times. I remember him joking about being the big cleanup hitter.

[RedlegJake]

This is easily the weirdest game of the year for me. Cueto hasn't looked great by any stretch but he has had some terrible luck. It's easy to lose command and look flustered after bloops fall in and your catcher looks like Taubensee circa 99. It's just been a weird one.

I've had similar thoughts about 20 games so far this year

[flyer85]

Pete has always been entertaining as long as he wasn't talking about his betting problems.

[Caveat Emperor]

T5, LA 3 CIN 2

PAUL BAKO up, looking to make up for a few of the defensive miscues tonight. He hits a smash to 2nd base and is retired easily.

1 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

Cueto has thrown 96 pitches through four and yet he's batting for himself. Take him out Dusty. He doesn't have his command and it's not worth risking injury. Bring in Fogg.

[flyer85]

I would have PH for Cueto ... he is close to 100 pitches.

[Caveat Emperor]

T5, 1 out, 0 on

JOHNNY CUETO batting -- and I can't figure out why, his pitch count has to be approaching 200 at this point. Maybe they've got him insured for a lot of cash and figure if they explode his elbow they can collect and build that new add-on to the owners box they've been talking about.

Cueto takes a couple of big-league cuts and spoils a couple pitches (with swings kinda reminiscent of Alfonso Soriano, minus the demand to bat leadoff) before whiffing for strike 3.

2 outs.

[Red in Chicago]

Pete is just a great guy to listen to. He's entertaining and actually can get George Grande to lighten up.

I especially liked the part with him making fun of Dusty's sweatbands:p:

[Cedric]

I don't have any problem with Dusty here. Try and get Johnny a nice inning to build on for his next start. Last inning he looked flustered and was pacing all over the place and obviously angry with himself. If he gets through 5 and keeps us in the game it should be worth it, IMO.

[Caveat Emperor]

T5, 2 out, 0 on

COREY PATTERSON up and down in short order, bouncing out to short.

If I had my choice, I'd have invested the $3.5 million in Enron stock.

LA 3, Reds 2.

[Kc61]

Reds have too many outs in the lineup these days. Patterson, Janish, Bako, pitcher. Votto isn't really hitting, Griffey isn't doing much. EE hopefully coming out of slump.

Right now Phillips and Dunn are the whole offense.

[OnBaseMachine]

Just what Cueto needed - one pitch, one out.

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, LA 3, CIN 2

JEFF KENT retires himself on 1 pitch. Johnny Cueto's right arm would say thank you, but it's too exhausted to speak right now.

1 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

Five pitches, two outs on groundouts to Janish.

Throw Kemp sliders.

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, 1 out, 0 on

JAMES LONEY up again, and like Kent before him, retires himself with a ground ball to shortstop.

2 out.

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, 2 out, 0 on

MATT KEMP up and hits a ball sharply up the middle, stopped by a charging Brandon Phillips behind the 2nd base bag. He pockets the baseball, smartly, and gives the infield hit to Kemp.

1 on, 2 out.

[OnBaseMachine]

Kemp with an infield single on 0-2. Again, puzzling pitch selection there. He's got Kemp 0-2 and has made him look foolish on the slider, so what's he do? Throws a fastball. A slider down and away there and this inning is probably over.

[Cedric]

If Cueto is under 110 pitches I would send him out in the 6th. Give me a straight jacket.

[VR]

Thom lets us know that Shawn Kemp is hitting the ball much better than a year ago. I'd bet the only thing Shawn is hitting these days is a big glass object filled w/ stinky water

[Kc61]

Dusty, enough. New pitcher now. Please.

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, 2 out, 1 on

BLAKE DEWITT up -- GG mentions that Walt Jocketty is in town and apparently scheduled to meet with some of his lieutenants to discuss things. Hopefully Corey Patterson is afraid.

DeWitt DeSmashes the ball into RF with the runner going and ends up with a base hit.

Baker comes to the mound and that'll be all for Mr. Cueto. PSYCHE! He's staying in!

2 on, 2 out.

[Cedric]

Thom lets us know that Shawn Kemp is hitting the ball much better than a year ago. I'd bet the only thing Shawn is hitting these days is a big glass object filled w/ stinky water

Or hitting something else but this is a family friendly site.

[OnBaseMachine]

Dewitt singles. Strange, strange pitch selection in the Kemp atbat. I can't believe he didn't throw a slider there.

[VR]

Hu has a hitter's count vs. the Reds pitchers...0-2

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, 2 on, 2 out

CHIN LUNG HU is up in RBI situation. I'd make the obvious "HU"'s on first joke, but he simply doesn't reach base enough to make it funny.

Cueto gets ahead with a hard fastball "right in the kitchen" (thanks CW) of Hu that is fouled off. DeWitt has been DeRunning on the last two foul balls.

Cueto airmails a throw over the head of Votto and gives the Dodgers a free run.

Wow.

[OnBaseMachine]

Goodness. Cueto throws over Votto's head on a pickoff attempt. Holy cow. 4-2 Dodgers. Focus on the dang hitter.

[Caveat Emperor]

B5, 1 on, 2 out, 1 run in.

HU still batting, and the count runs full -- it'd be a perfect cap to Cueto's turd of a game to walk the guy batting close to .180.

Hu grounds sharply to 2nd for the last out of the inning.

LA 4, CIN 2

[Cedric]

I don't see how you can say Marty is "against" Johnny Cueto at this point. Is Johnny Cueto the type of young man that will learn from this? Or is he the type that will get even more flustered and lose his confidence? It's not insane in the least in thinking about letting the young man calm down sometime this year in AAA. Saying Marty is personally against Cueto is just odd. Nobody wants the Reds to succeed more than Marty.

[OnBaseMachine]

Looked like a very promising inning. Two groundouts on five pitches and a quick 0-2 count on Kemp. Last atbat he struckout Kemp on three sliders in the dirt. This time he tries to throw a fastball past a fastball hitter and he singles.

Final line for Cueto:

5 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 2 K.

[BCubb2003]

Cueto gets ahead with a hard fastball "right in the kitchen" (thanks CW) of Hu that is fouled off.

Is that near the wheelhouse?

[REDREAD]

Typical Marty to turn on a young player. I feel sorry for Jay Bruce when he goes into his first slump.

I know, it's absurd.. The thing is, if Ceuto goes down, then what?
Bring up Homer (who Marty will like even less).. or put Fogg back in?

Ceuto is clearly the best option. It's not even close.
Marty needs to have some patience.

[Caveat Emperor]

Is that near the wheelhouse?

Based on Cueto's outing tonight, I'd say it's somewhere near the poop deck.

[OnBaseMachine]

Janish singles.

[NC Reds]

Janish gets a solid single. C'mon Junior!!

[Caveat Emperor]

T6, LA 4 CIN 2

PAUL JANISH leads the inning off with a single - the first good thing that has happened to this team in at least 20 minutes.

1 on.

[Edskin]

Time for Junior to go yard...PLEASE. The "chase" for 600 is driving me nuts

[Kc61]

Base hit for Janish.

I sense that the Reds, who were so confident against the Marlins at home, are now just totally lacking in confidence, waiting for the roof to fall in. At such times, the highly paid stars have to step up and lead. We know who they are. Lets see them do something.

[OnBaseMachine]

Griffey flies out to the wall. 1 out. Almost had it.

[Caveat Emperor]

T6, 1 on, 0 out

GEORGE KENNETH GRIFFEY JR. up to bat -- still looking for that elusive 598th home run. Though, I'm told that once you hit 598, the rest are just cake.

He gives the ball a ride, but falls short of a round-tripper.

1 out.

[REDREAD]

I apologize if this has already been discussed. They had a bit on the pregame with Dusty. Dusty was saying he wanted his young pitchers and some of the veterans to stop shaking off the veteran catchers and let them call the game. He was concerned that some pitchers were not leveraging the experience that the catchers bring to the game.

Seems reasonable. I'd rather the youngsters focus on just throwing the ball as opposed to strategy. Just focus on the execution.. Don't know if anyone else has other thoughts..

[RedlegJake]

Sorry, I agree with Marty. I'd let Cueto go back to AAA for awhile and bring up Maloney. That's not a knock a Cueto - it's to protect him and give him some time to recollect himself. He's had one really dominant start against Arizona that wowed people. If that start hadn't happened and what he's done since was all I think a lot of people would be for sending him down for awhile.

[Patrick Bateman]

I thought Griffey hit that basically as well as he could. In GABP, that's 10 rows deep. Honestly, I'm not sure if he has the power to hit them out in this park.

[Kc61]

I thought Griffey hit that basically as well as he could. In GABP, that's 10 rows deep. Honestly, I'm not sure if he has the power to hit them out in this park.

Wait until San Diego.

[Caveat Emperor]

T6, 1 on, 1 out

BRANDON "B-PHIL" PHILLIPS up and thinking to himself "Don't ground routinely into a double play...don't ground routinely into a double play...don't ground routinely into a double play..."

Phillips fouls a couple pitches off, takes a couple pitches (but you know that's a tease, he'll never take ball four willingly), and works the count to 2-2 before grounding routinely into a double play.

Ugh.

LA 4, CIN 2

[CTA513]

Griffey better hope for 50 MPH winds blowing out if he wants to hit #598.

[NC Reds]

Phillips is uncanny with the double plays. :(

[flyer85]

Phillips is quite the rally killer ... really hurts when the guy left on deck is the guy you want up with runners on

[Caveat Emperor]

And with that, I'm done -- it's bedtime for me.

Enjoy the rest of the evening y'all. ;)

[Kc61]

Phillips is uncanny with the double plays. :(

Odd thing is that they never seem close at first base. He must hit those grounders very sharply. Great.

[OnBaseMachine]

Affeldt in.

[BCubb2003]

And with that, I'm done -- it's bedtime for me.

Enjoy the rest of the evening y'all. ;)

Caveat Emperor thinks he's Phil Rizzuto.

[OnBaseMachine]

Kuroda K's.

[Cyclone792]

That's double play #52 for Phillips since he's become a Red. He's hitting double plays every 22.87 plate appearances since putting on the Reds uniform.

Not even Sean Casey himself could accomplish that feat. Impressive.

[Kc61]

Caveat Emperor thinks he's Phil Rizzuto.


But it's not raining.

[mbgrayson]

Cueto done with 114 pitches tonight. In 5 innings, Cueto gave up 7 hits, 4 runs (2 earned), 3 BBs, and 2 Ks.

[BCubb2003]

That's double play #52 for Phillips since he's become a Red. He's hitting double plays every 22.87 plate appearances since putting on the Reds uniform.

Not even Sean Casey himself could accomplish that feat. Impressive.

Double plays are a team-dependent stat.

[flyer85]

114 pitches in 5 innings is ridiculous ... he should never have went out for the 5th.

[RedlegJake]

Pierre bunts out back to Affeldt

[OnBaseMachine]

Affeldt gets a K and two groundouts.

4-2 Dodgers after 6.

[flyer85]

Double plays are a team-dependent stat.maybe it's a good thing the top 3 hitters rarely get on

[VR]

4 runs score on Passed ball, passed ball, squeeze, and error by the pitcher.

[mbgrayson]

A nine pitch sixth from Affeldt. After 6, Dodgers up 4-2.

[RedlegJake]

Ethier grounds out to Phillips. 3 down. Nice job by Jeremy

[Kc61]

114 pitches in 5 innings is ridiculous ... he should never have went out for the 5th.

114 is not a disaster. Borderline high number. I wonder whether Marty has a point about Cueto. He isn't ready to win in the majors. The question is whether he is better off fighting through this or tuning it up at AAA. Doesn't really matter who the Reds bring up, Cueto isn't giving them wins anyway.

Maybe a few starts in AAA and some work with Ted Power would help him. He isn't really helping the Reds win this year, the question is what would speed his development.

[Edskin]

Double plays are a team-dependent stat.

Wouldn't % of DP's hit with runners on 1st and less than 2 outs be fairly accurate? If such a stat exists of course.

[OnBaseMachine]

Good atbat by Dunn as he walks to begin the 7th.

[OnBaseMachine]

No way I send Cueto to AAA. It's not like he got rocked tonight.

[Wheelhouse]

No way I send Cueto to AAA. It's not like he got rocked tonight.

Agreed. Johnny Cueto is a ML pitcher now. There's maybe a bit more stress since the offense has been so horrible this season--sending Cueto down is not the answer.

[Cyclone792]

Wouldn't % of DP's hit with runners on 1st and less than 2 outs be fairly accurate? If such a stat exists of course.

Including all PAs with less than two outs may not be possible, however ...

With a runner on first in his career, Phillips has grounded into a double play in 9.9 percent of those plate appearances. The 2008 NL average with a runner on first has only 6.0 percent of plate appearances resulting in a GDP.

[Kc61]

No way I send Cueto to AAA. It's not like he got rocked tonight.

Just wondering if a few weeks down at AAA will get him throwing like he did this spring. Cueto doesn't seem to be at that same level right now. Really a judgment call how the Reds handle him right now.

[OnBaseMachine]

After Dunn walked, Ede grounded out on 3-2. Votto grounded out on 3-1. And Bako grounded out on a 2-1 pitch at his ankles.

4-2 Dodgers.

[OnBaseMachine]

The Reds have held the Dodgers to four earned runs or less in all three games yet appear to be on their way to getting swept.

[Kc61]

After Janish's single, all the Reds offensive "stars" got to hit and the only one who came through was Dunn, and that with a walk. Against an average pitcher going through the lineup for the third time. Now the Dodgers will bring in those tough relievers and the Reds will be up against it.

After winning six, I wasn't shocked that the Reds lost two games. But this is a disappointing effort so far tonight.

[VR]

I was kind of happy the Reds wouldn't be facing Peavy or Young in SD, but Wolf, Estes, Ledezma, and Maddux? Poison.

[mbgrayson]

The Reds have held the Dodgers to four earned runs or less in all three games yet appear to be on their way to getting swept.

Earned being the operative word. We need to find someone in the minors who can hit....Anybody think of a good guy to call up to the Reds? ;) We need to score more runs....

[OnBaseMachine]

Affeldt gets two quicks outs to begin the 7th before Loney homers to RF. 5-2 Dodgers. That's the Dodgers first homerun of the series.

[REDREAD]

:( HR by Looney Tunes..

[REDREAD]

I was kind of happy the Reds wouldn't be facing Peavy or Young in SD, but Wolf, Estes, Ledezma, and Maddux? Poison.

You got to suspect that Wolf and Estes are going to be hard on us. That's the way it alwasy seems to work..

[OnBaseMachine]

Kemp groundsout to Janish. He's smooth at SS.

5-2 Dodgers after 7.

[mbgrayson]

Reds haven't won in L.A. since 2005. Not looking good after 7: Reds down 5-2.

[flyer85]

Kuroda is more than willing to let the hitters get themselves out chasing bordeline pitches ... most of the Reds are obliging.

[AmarilloRed]

Reds are really streaky. First 6 straight wins, and now it looks like 3 straight losses.

[Cedric]

With all the lucky breaks the Reds got this home stand nobody should be surprised the Reds are getting whipped in LA. The Reds are going to be fighting for a top pick again this year. Hopefully Jocketty can work some trade magic and then go dumpster diving. He's damn good at it.

[CTA513]

Patterson doesn't waste anytime making outs.

[KronoRed]

114 pitches in 5 innings is ridiculous ... he should never have went out for the 5th.

Nope, but if he can't even get past 5 on less the 100 pitches then why not put him in the pen for a bit? might do him some good.

[Edskin]

Wow. Patterson is incredibly bad. I mean, just a dreadful. I guess Dusty is in the bathroom for all of his AB's.

[OnBaseMachine]

Hatteberg K's. Patterson bounces back to the pitcher on the first pitch and Janish K's on a 1-2 pitch in the dirt.

[mbgrayson]

Patterson has seen 7 pitches in 4 ABs. He is 0 for 4 tonight, and is now hitting .220, with OBP about .264 and a total OPS of .649. He just keeps hacking away.....

The amazing thing is that he has brought his average for May UP compared to April: and in May he is hitting .229, with an OPS of .479 with 2 RBIs. That tells you how bad his April was.

[Edskin]

I'm a little surprised Torre isn't going to let Kuroda have a chance to finish this game, but I guess it doesn't really matter. I assume we'll see Saito and a quick end to the 9th.

[OnBaseMachine]

Lincoln throws a 1-2-3 8th inning with a strikeout and two groundouts.

5-2 Dodgers after 8.

[mbgrayson]

I'm a little surprised Torre isn't going to let Kuroda have a chance to finish this game, but I guess it doesn't really matter. I assume we'll see Saito and a quick end to the 9th.

I think Torre should let Broxton close it tonight. At least then my fantasy team would get a save....

[Edskin]

That makes no sense to me-- why would Junior be swinging at a 1-0 pitch to lead of the 9th down by 3?

[Tony Cloninger]

They all for the most part......look weak hitting the ball. It's like they are tired or the time change is now just catching up with them....which would make 0 sense.

I agree with the person who said.....they lost their confidence......they do not think they are that good and it shows.

[OnBaseMachine]

Griffey popped out on 1-0.

[OnBaseMachine]

Phillips K's on 3-2. 2 outs.

[Cedric]

I'm honestly like Jim Leyland when it comes to the "chemistry" word. But there has to be a label for what Reds fans witness on WAY too many occasions. This team just doesn't have anyone that seems willing to show fire and do something on the field to ignite the team. The main part of that is talent but that also can come with accountability. What else can be said about the lack of that on this roster? Maybe after a 1-5 West coast swing we will finally see some major moves. I think Corey Patterson might have played his last game as the starting CF for this team. He gives away almost every at bat and that black hole starting off a lineup is just a killer.

I'm ready for Maloney to be called up along with Bruce. Stick Johnny in the BP for awhile and then start firing up the phone lines on Griffey, Patterson, and Weathers. It's been said a million times and it can't be said enough. Blow this up and redo the whole structure of the team outside the strong nucleus. You can't let players like Votto, Edwin, and Phillips get accustomed to such a non accountable roster.

[OnBaseMachine]

Dunn grounded out to Dewitt on 2-1 to end the game. Reds lose 5-2.

[REDREAD]

Well, that was not fun at all. hopefully they can turn it around tommorrow

I lost sleep for nothing :thumbdown

[redsrule2500]

Welp, back to sucking for the Reds :(

[CTA513]

Time to wait and see if the Reds can follow up a 6-0 homestand with a 0-7 road trip.

[Big Klu]

Strange to see a catcher batting 3rd (Martin). REDS fans are used to a catcher batting 7th or lower. Wonder when the last time a REDS catcher batted 4th or higher?


Eddie Taubensee? Or back further with Johnny Bench?


My guess is Bo Diaz


I think LaRue batted 2nd a few times. But other than, probably Tauby. He batted cleanup a few times. I remember him joking about being the big cleanup hitter.

The correct answer is Ryan Hanigan, who batted 2nd in the last game of the season last year (9/30/07) vs. the Cubs. It was the only time all season a catcher hit higher than 6th.

The last Reds catcher to hit 4th was Javier Valentin (9/29/05). It was the only time all season a catcher hit in the top four spots.

The last Reds catcher to bat 3rd was Johnny Bench (8/14/77 -- 1st game).

Reds catchers this season have batted 8th in every game except for one. Last Sunday vs. Cleveland, David Ross batted 7th, while Javier Valentin played 1B and batted 8th.


Most Recent Appearances by a Reds Catcher in the Top Four Spots in the Batting Order since 2000:

1. Ryan Hanigan, 9/30/07 (2nd)
2. Javier Valentin, 9/29/05 (4th)
3. Jason LaRue, 6/11/04 (2nd)
4. Jason LaRue, 8/19/03 (2nd)
5. Jason LaRue, 8/17/03 (2nd)
6. Jason LaRue, 8/15/03 (2nd)
7. Jason LaRue, 8/14/03 (2nd)
8. Jason LaRue, 6/3/01 (2nd)
9. Jason LaRue, 5/27/01 (2nd)
10. Jason LaRue, 5/26/01 (2nd)
11. Eddie Taubensee, 5/12/00 (4th)
12. Eddie Taubensee, 5/11/00 (4th)
13. Eddie Taubensee, 4/18/00 (4th)
14. Eddie Taubensee, 4/16/00 (4th)
15. Eddie Taubensee, 4/15/00 (4th)

[CTA513]

From John Fays blog:


Swept: L.A. 5, Reds 2

Maybe the Reds ought to bring back Brandon Claussen. He's the last Reds' winning pitcher in Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers completed the sweep Wednesday night. That's nine straight losses overall for the Reds in Chavez Ravine.

The Reds are in another offensive funk -- three runs total the last two nights.

It's hard to get going when your leadoff man has a .262 on-base percentage as Corey Patterson does and your No. 3 hitter hasn't hit a homer in month as Ken Griffey hasn't.

It was extremely windy here tonight. Extremely. A fine layer of dust built up on my computers -- must be blowing in with the wind.

Johnny Cueto went five innings and allowed four runs -- two earned -- on seven hits. He labored, throwing 114 pitches. He wasn't hit hard -- two infield hits, two bloops hung up by the wind. One run scored a wild pitch, another on squeeze, another on passed ball and another on Cueto's pickoff throw to first that went into the stands.

"We gave them three runs tonight," Dusty Baker said. "You can't do that when you're not scoring runs. This is the big leagues. That was the difference in the game."

Reds scored one in the second. Adam Dunn hit check-swing double, thanks to the shift. Edwin Encarnacion singled. Dunn scored on Joey Votto's fielder's choice.

The Dodgers came up with two in the bottom of the inning. Cueto walked leadoff hitter James Loney, then gave up a single to Matt Kemp. Loney scored on a wild pitch. Kemp moved to third on Blake DeWitt's groundout. Kemp scored on Chin-lung Hu's squeeze. Cueto made nice play on the ball, flipping it to catcher Paul Bako with his glove. But the flip was a bit high.

The Reds tied it in the fourth. Brandon Phillips and stole third. Encarnacion got him home with a sac fly.

Cueto gave up an unearned run in the fourth another in the fifth on 12-foot high pickoff throw.

Jerry Hairston Jr. left the game after the top of the first. he pulled up running out a grounder to third. Paul Janish replaced him. Hairston went out with dizziness due to dehydration.

[Ltlabner]

So Dusty continues to give heaping helpings of plate apperances to Patterson (and with the exception of last night, a growing number to Janish in the #2 spot) despite being an offensive black hole.

Then he leaves young Cueto out there for 114 pitches.

And here I was told everything I despised about Dusty was an internet myth.

[Matt700wlw]

Reds doing their best to completely waste away everything they did last week.


Wouldn't shock me one bit if that's exactly what they do.

[Tommyjohn25]

Reds doing their best to completely waste away everything they did last week.


Wouldn't shock me one bit if that's exactly what they do.

I stand by my prediction on the 1st page of this thread. Of course for it to happen the Reds will have to sweep the Padres. Do I think it'll happen? In a word. Yes.

[BRM]

Fantastic PBP last night CE. Well done. :thumbup:

[Matt700wlw]

I stand by my prediction on the 1st page of this thread. Of course for it to happen the Reds will have to sweep the Padres. Do I think it'll happen? In a word. Yes.

I would for nothing more than you being correct!

[Tommyjohn25]

I would for nothing more than you being correct!

Me too. I don't think the Pads have a chance in Hades to hit Harang or Volquez, which will give them some momentum for the final 2 games. Arroyo should be able to hold them to a pair or so. Belisles start scares me a bit, but he did look better the other night.

[Matt700wlw]

Based on the starters going, the Reds definitely have the advantage.....at least early in the series.

[Falls City Beer]

I don't think the Pads have a chance in Hades to hit Harang or Volquez, which will give them some momentum for the final 2 games.


Towers will promote some guy from AAA who will go 15 for 15 in the series with like 8 homers.

Reds have been writing these sitcom scripts for years.

[Tommyjohn25]

Towers will promote some guy from AAA who will go 15 for 15 in the series with like 8 homers.

Reds have been writing these sitcom scripts for years.

:lol: It's funny because it's true.

[Will M]

Reds were swept by the Dodgers. Notice it was our 3-4-5 pitchers.
While the Reds may win with defensive miscues and weak hitting with Harang or Volquez on the mound they have to play much better when the 3-4-5 starters go. Actually the pitching was ok in LA but we still got swept.

[RedsManRick]

Reds were swept by the Dodgers. Notice it was our 3-4-5 pitchers.
While the Reds may win with defensive miscues and weak hitting with Harang or Volquez on the mound they have to play much better when the 3-4-5 starters go. Actually the pitching was ok in LA but we still got swept.

The Dodgers averaged 5 runs per game. The Reds averaged 2.7. Yes, the pitching could have been better and God knows the poor defense didn't help, but offense was truly the "problem", if you want to pin it on any one thing.

The Reds could've allowed 4 per game, would've justly called it a good pitching series, and still would've been outscored by more than a run per game.

We could be better across the board. But this team's inability to score at least a handful of runs every night is simply appalling given it's talent. I can't imagine why it's happening.....

[OnBaseMachine]

The Reds gave up 15 runs in the Dodgers series, and four of those runs were unearned, and really two more should have been unearned. That is unacceptable. I forget who said it on the post game show last night but it was pointed out that with better defense the Reds could have possibly taken two of three. I agree. Yeah, the offense was awful and they clearly at fault for the Reds getting swept but the defense was embarrassing.