5/5/09 - Reds vs Marlins

[Reds Fanatic]

Lineups:


Reds (13 - 12)
4th in NL Central
Marlins (15 - 11)
1st in NL East

Starting Lineup

Name AVG HR RBI SB
1. W Taveras, CF .262 0 2 5
2. J Hairston Jr., SS .156 1 2 0
3. J Votto, 1B .365 3 22 1
4. B Phillips, 2B .205 3 11 4
5. J Bruce, RF .253 6 14 1
6. R Hernandez, C .257 1 8 0
7. A Rosales, 3B .333 0 3 0
8. C Dickerson, LF .218 1 5 0
9. E Volquez, P .000 0 0 0

Starting Lineup

Name AVG HR RBI SB
1. E Bonifacio, 3B .268 1 6 6
2. J Baker, C .299 2 10 0
3. H Ramirez, SS .299 3 13 3
4. J Cantu, 1B .317 7 25 1
5. D Uggla, 2B .202 4 18 0
6. J Hermida, LF .235 3 11 1
7. C Ross, RF .229 4 15 0
8. A Amezaga, CF .244 0 4 0
9. C Volstad, P .100 0 0 0

Starting Pitcher
Name W L ERA* WHIP K
E Volquez 3 2 4.45 1.42 28

Starting Pitcher
Name W L ERA* WHIP K
C Volstad 2 0 2.67 1.00 27

[OnBaseMachine]

Poor Laynce Nix. Guy is crushing the ball and he still can't get a start.

Hairston at SS. Just what I thought. Gonzalez is no longer a great defending shortstop but he's still waaaaayyy better than Hairston. Hairston constantly turns routine grounders into adventures.

[Reds Fanatic]

More than likely Gonzalez is headed to the DL. A decision will be made later tonight. I would expect a move to be made when they get home tomorrow.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I kinda understand that move. Hairston does need some playing time. But then again, so does Janish. If you're going to carry Janish, this is the time to use him IMO. If you're NOT going to use him in this situation...he should be at Louisville.

[membengal]

Why does Hairston need playing time? What has he done to warrant that statement?

[OnBaseMachine]

Why does Hairston need playing time? What has he done to warrant that statement?

I was wondering the same exact thing.

Hairston has a sub .500 OPS and he's an awful defensive shortstop. He doesn't deserve playing time. He should be happy he's on a major league roster.

[pahster]

Janish must have kicked Dusty's dog or something.

[Reds Fanatic]

Not only should Hairston not be starting but if you are going to start him it is ridiculous to have him batting 2nd.

[Reds Fanatic]

Taveras flies out to left.

[Red in Chicago]

"hit pretty good to left"...are you kidding me george?

[membengal]

I disagree with George's description of that fly ball from Tavaras as "hit pretty good to left"...

[Reds Fanatic]

4 pitch walk to Hairston

[membengal]

"hit pretty good to left"...are you kidding me george?

The worst part for me for the lift to his voice like it had really been tagged. I was looking forward to seeing how far Taveras would run...

[pahster]

The Marlins announcers said that Baker "decided he had to get Hairston in the lineup because he was 15-27 against the Marlins last year." Solid reasoning.

[membengal]

This ump looks stingy with the top of the strike zone. Hope Ramon and Edinson are noting this...

[Reds Fanatic]

Hairston easily steals 2nd.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto singles to left. 1-0 Reds.

[membengal]

Nice Reds. That's how to make speed work for you.

[BCubb2003]

Hairston bringing the small ball.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips flies out to center. 2 outs.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bad throw in allows Votto to move to 2nd. Error on Uggla as he throws wild back to the pitcher.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce strikes out swinging. 1-0 Reds mid 1st.

[OnBaseMachine]

Take a look at Bruce and Volstad's pictures on their MLB.com player page. Separated at birth?

[Nasty_Boy]

God forbid that Joey ever goes into a slump!

[Reds Fanatic]

Nasty pitch. Bonifacio strikes out swinging. 1 out.

[Gallen5862]

Let's go Reds. I am glad the Reds jump out to a early lead. Any word on A Gon? Is he going on the DL?

[GAC]

Not only should Hairston not be starting but if you are going to start him it is ridiculous to have him batting 2nd.

Dusty love.

I'm still upset that he had one of the hottest hitters on this team right now, who has been making solid contact in Ramon, trying to bunt last night with Bruce on 1B.

[Reds Fanatic]

Baker strikes out looking. 2 outs.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Why does Hairston need playing time? What has he done to warrant that statement?

Despite what many here seem to think, he IS a part of this ballclub and we DO need him to get on track in order for him to help the team. That ain't gonna happen unless he gets some AB's.

If everyone who was in a slump was demoted to the minors...most clubs wouldn't have enough players to field a full team.

[Reds Fanatic]

7Let's go Reds. I am glad the Reds jump out to a early lead. Any word on A Gon? Is he going on the DL?
They will decide later tonight. He is probably going on the DL.

[membengal]

To follow up on my earlier observation, pitches at the belt will be called balls. The money will be made at the hollow of the knee. If Volquez is able to work down, he will have a good night with this ump.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ramirez flies out to center. 1-0 Reds after 1.

[membengal]

Despite what many here seem to think, he IS a part of this ballclub and we DO need him to get on track in order for him to help the team. That ain't gonna happen unless he gets some AB's.

If everyone who was in a slump was demoted to the minors...most clubs wouldn't have enough players to field a full team.

I have not advocated demoting him to the minors. But he should not be more than a back of the bench option. And its not like he's been mothballed, he will be at 50 at-bats on the year by the end of the night.

[GAC]

AGon gets hurt.... you have a kid that is an excellent defensive SS with range in Janish.....so you start JHJ at SS?

JHJ= Patterson 2009

[GAC]

Despite what many here seem to think, he IS a part of this ballclub and we DO need him to get on track in order for him to help the team. That ain't gonna happen unless he gets some AB's.

But not at SS where you got a kid that would run circles around JHJ, as far as range and defensive ability, at such a key position. Isn't that why Janish is here?

[_Sir_Charles_]

I have not advocated demoting him to the minors. But he should not be more than a back of the bench option. And its not like he's been mothballed, he will be at 50 at-bats on the year by the end of the night.

Sorry, that wasn't directed at you specifically. Just a general comment. And to be clear, I would've preferred to see Janish get the start tonight. I've got no problem with trying to get Hairston on track, but I thought he was supposed to be a reserve OF'er mostly. Oh well. Maybe there's more info that we don't know.

[Reds Fanatic]

They must have changed the lineup since I posted it about 20 minutes ago. They have Hernandez batting 8th. That is crazy. Rosales grounds out.

[_Sir_Charles_]

But not at SS where you got a kid that would run circles around JHJ, as far as range and defensive ability, at such a key position. Isn't that why Janish is here?

I agree 100%. Just sayin that I understand Dusty wanting to get Hairston some PT.

[GAC]

How many bunt attempts has this team made this year? And they really look like half-hearted attempts that just end up in strikes (foul balls) :lol:

[Reds Fanatic]

Dickerson strikes out looking. 2 outs.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hernandez singles to center.

[GAC]

I agree 100%. Just sayin that I understand Dusty wanting to get Hairston some PT.

I understand where you're coming from; but JHJ has already gotten plenty. And what about getting Janish more playing time? These are ideal situations, with AGon going down, to do it.

Are we now going to see JHJ platooning at SS with Janish? That's simply absurd IMO. JHJ is not a SS IMO.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Ramon continues to hit. Single up the middle.

I bet by the ASB, Ramon will be batting clean-up breaking up Joey & Jay.

Volkie with a hit! Woo Hoo! :O)

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez singles to right. His first hit of the season. 1st and 2nd.

[Reds Fanatic]

Taveras grounds into a 6-4 FC on the first pitch. 1-0 Reds mid 2nd.

[Red in Chicago]

Willy really worked the count there with two guys on base..nice

[OnBaseMachine]

Taveras' OBP continues to drop. It's now under .330.

[GAC]

Taveras' OBP continues to drop. It's now under .330.

When it gets below .310.... sell :p:

[_Sir_Charles_]

I understand where you're coming from; but JHJ has already gotten plenty. And what about getting Janish more playing time? These are ideal situations, with AGon going down, to do it.

Are we now going to see JHJ platooning at SS with Janish? That's simply absurd IMO. JHJ is not a SS IMO.

I'm not arguing with you. I'm right there with you. Just saying that Dusty's in a bit of a quandry. If he plays Janish, where does he play Hairston. LF? Well, he also wants to get Dickerson on track too? I don't think Janish in considered a "core" member of the team. He's a defensive sub in Dusty's mind. I kinda agree, but he's been swinging a MUCH improved bat since the spring. It's just a tough situation. With so many multiple guys struggling that we need to get on track, it's a juggling act.

With Hairston's solid success against the Marlins last year...maybe that was the deciding factor in that decision. Not a bad thing to look at when you're not sure what to do.

But he sure is sacrificing a ton of defense IMO. Tough call.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cantu flies out to center. 1 out.

[Reds Fanatic]

Great catch by Dickerson on Uggla's line drive.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Nice snag by Chris! :O)

[Red in Chicago]

I'm not arguing with you. I'm right there with you. Just saying that Dusty's in a bit of a quandry. If he plays Janish, where does he play Hairston. LF? Well, he also wants to get Dickerson on track too? I don't think Janish in considered a "core" member of the team. He's a defensive sub in Dusty's mind. I kinda agree, but he's been swinging a MUCH improved bat since the spring. It's just a tough situation. With so many multiple guys struggling that we need to get on track, it's a juggling act.

With Hairston's solid success against the Marlins last year...maybe that was the deciding factor in that decision. Not a bad thing to look at when you're not sure what to do.

But he sure is sacrificing a ton of defense IMO. Tough call.

But WHY does he have to play Hairston is the real question? Sure, it's worked out so far, but Jerry is not going to be part of the future of this team.

[Mario-Rijo]

Nice snag by Chris! :O)

Nice trap, but I ain't complaining.

[CrackerJack]

George is really looking forward to the games with the "Redbirds"

Looks like Dickerson may have trapped that on the replay...

[membengal]

I'm not arguing with you. I'm right there with you. Just saying that Dusty's in a bit of a quandry. If he plays Janish, where does he play Hairston. LF? Well, he also wants to get Dickerson on track too? I don't think Janish in considered a "core" member of the team. He's a defensive sub in Dusty's mind. I kinda agree, but he's been swinging a MUCH improved bat since the spring. It's just a tough situation. With so many multiple guys struggling that we need to get on track, it's a juggling act.

With Hairston's solid success against the Marlins last year...maybe that was the deciding factor in that decision. Not a bad thing to look at when you're not sure what to do.

But he sure is sacrificing a ton of defense IMO. Tough call.

He's in a quandry of his own making, based on his elevating Hairston to a place on this team that he doesn't deserve. Not remotely a tough call for most any other manager. This would be where I repeat my point from ORG that one of Baker's strengths is loyalty, and it is also one of his greatest weaknesses.

[Reds Fanatic]

Another great changeup. Hermida strikes out swinging. 3 Ks for Volquez. 1-0 Reds after 2.

[_Sir_Charles_]

KKK

[GAC]

chat is open

[_Sir_Charles_]

But WHY does he have to play Hairston is the real question? Sure, it's worked out so far, but Jerry is not going to be part of the future of this team.

Well, you obviously don't agree with Dusty on this one, but he thinks Hairston is a valuable part of this team. If he wasn't struggling so much so far this year...I'd probably agree. He was one of the most valuable members of the team last season. After Votto, maybe the most valuable. Many here think it was a lucky season, but I saw one solid ab after another. But very few and far between this year. Who knows.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hairston breaks his bat and grounds out to 3rd. 1 out.

[Red in Chicago]

Trader Jack looks the same as he did 20 years ago:cool:

[membengal]

Random query based on watching Votto limp around after fouling that ball off his foot:

How many runs a game would the Reds average, if, heaven forbid, something happened to him injury wise?

Along those lines, same question if opposing teams realize they don't need to ever throw him a strike?

[GAC]

If he plays Janish, where does he play Hairston.

But Dusty wouldn't be in a quandry if he would understand what JHJ's role is on this team.


Well, he also wants to get Dickerson on track too?

Play the younger guy. Give him the shot. He's had JHJ on his team before when he managed the Cubs. He should know by know what he's going to get.

JHJ is a valuable guy off the bench. He's not, IMO, an every day player.


I don't think Janish in considered a "core" member of the team.

Why not? He should be. Then why is he on the roster? To back up our starting SS.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto walks.

[wheels]

Jack mckeon looks fantastic. One of my favorite people in baseball.

[membengal]

Joey Votto is a baseball deity.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto steals 2nd and goes to 3rd on a wild throw that goes into center.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I LOVE IT!

Votto gets a huge jump on the pitcher, and then a WP and he goes all the way to third! :O)

[membengal]

Now with Bruce up clean-up against the righty, we are good to go with one out...oh, wait...

[Red in Chicago]

The Reds must have read Cyclone's postgame post about yesterday's game;)

[wheels]

Joey Votto is a baseball deity.

Word.

[membengal]

There you go Brandon. Taunting works?

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips singles to left. 2-0 Reds!

[_Sir_Charles_]

JHJ is a valuable guy off the bench. He's not, IMO, an every day player.

That's all I'm saying. Dusty's opinion differs from many here. Who's right? Well, obviously everyone here will say that Dusty's wrong. Despite the fact that he does this for a living. Anyway...back to the game. :O)

Brandon with a single to score Vottomatic! 2-0 Redlegs.

[membengal]

Hope Brandon has his running shoes on as well.

[OnBaseMachine]

John Hart is on MLB Network right now comparing Volquez to Pedro Martinez.

[GAC]

Hope Brandon has his running shoes on as well.

he didn't. Thrown out stealing. :p:

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips is caught stealing 2nd. Looked like the catcher double clutched that ball but still throws him out.

[membengal]

Apparently Brandon is wearing cement shoes.

Hatcher needs to get the Reds to take better leads.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Phillips picked off trying to swipe 2nd.

Yep, Dusty's lit a fire under their butts to hit the basepaths more aggresively. For good or ill, he's thrown down the gauntlet.

[membengal]

John Hart is on MLB Network right now comparing Volquez to Pedro Martinez.

Um, that's kinda sexy. Tell me more.

[GAC]

Another solid example of giving up outs. Just because one possesses speed, does not mean they known how to steal. It's almost an "art".

Someone tell Baker that. ;)

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce strikes out looking. 2-0 Reds mid 3rd.

[Red in Chicago]

John Hart is on MLB Network right now comparing Volquez to Pedro Martinez.

Why aren't you watching the game :p:

[Mario-Rijo]

Now I know calling low strikes is this ump's forte but that was literally 3 inches from the ground, there is no way it was a strike.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Um, that's kinda sexy. Tell me more.

That right there sums up Redzoner's in a nutshell. We're kind of a sad lot. :O) But I'm right with ya memphis....tell us more! *grin*

[GAC]

when is the last time we've seen pitching this solid from a Red's team?

[OnBaseMachine]

Um, that's kinda sexy. Tell me more.

He referred to Volquez's changeup as a double plus pitch. Also said his fastball is a plus pitch and if his curveball continues to improve he'll be even nastier. Billy Ripken commented on how hard it must be to hit Volquez because he keeps the same arm slot of his fastball/change.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ross is hit in the hip by the breaking ball.

[Red in Chicago]

Another solid example of giving up outs. Just because one possesses speed, does not mean they known how to steal. It's almost an "art".

Someone tell Baker that. ;)

His career success rate is about 77%, which isn't bad.

[Reds Fanatic]

Amezaga fouls out to 3rd. 1 out.

[_Sir_Charles_]

LOL. Yep, the Cowboy grew up in the 70's. "the first time I saw this cat play...." refering to Amezaga. Who still says "cat".


Hernandez NAILS Ross at first. What a laser!

[Reds Fanatic]

Perfect throw by Hernandez picks Ross off 1st.

[OnBaseMachine]

Why aren't you watching the game :p:

I've been switching back and forth. Last night's game took a lot out of me. I'm still frustrated from that loss. Plus, with Hairston playing SS tonight...

[Red in Chicago]

Phillips did a great job of blocking Ross from getting back to the bag

[GAC]

Nice play BP to block the path back to the bag

[membengal]

Heady play from Brandon to block the runner off first diving back in.

[GAC]

GG play by BP to end the inning.

[Reds Fanatic]

Nice catch by Brandon on the line drive. 2-0 Reds after 3.

[Razor Shines]

Excellent example of how to block a base.

EDIT: Ok I'm a little behind. Why is mlb.tv so far behind?

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez is through 3 on only 33 pitches.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Man, I love watching solid pitching and good defense. It's addictive as hell!

[wheels]

They are playing a terrific game so far.

Impressive. Good energy.

[Red in Chicago]

I've been switching back and forth. Last night's game took a lot out of me. I'm still frustrated from that loss. Plus, with Hairston playing SS tonight...

You're a funny guy OBM, but I can relate. When I was your age, I would get so mad when the Reds lost that I'd have a headache and be in a very bad mood for the rest of the day.

[_Sir_Charles_]

They are playing a terrific game so far.

Impressive. Good energy.

It's gotta be because Hairston's starting. :O) just kidding, Juuuuuust kidding.

[Reds Fanatic]

Rosales strikes out swinging. 1 out.

[GAC]

Excellent example of how to block a base.

EDIT: Ok I'm a little behind. Why is mlb.tv so far behind?

Always will be. One of the disadvantages. Tape delay.

[Red in Chicago]

It's gotta be because Hairston's starting. :O) just kidding, Juuuuuust kidding.


them's fightin' words :p:

[_Sir_Charles_]

Rosales seems to be a sucker for the high heater. Is this something he's known for in the minors?

[Reds Fanatic]

Dickerson strikes out swinging. 5 Ks for Volstad.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hernandez grounds out to 2nd. 2-0 Reds mid 4th.

[_Sir_Charles_]

1-2-3 for Volstad. He made that look easy. Let's keep the pressure on. I really like the aggressive play by the Reds so far tonight. Both offensively AND defensively.

[OnBaseMachine]

You're a funny guy OBM, but I can relate. When I was your age, I would get so mad when the Reds lost that I'd have a headache and be in a very bad mood for the rest of the day.

That's exactly how I am. Losses like last night are very, very frustrating. That one will stick with me for a while. They should have won that game.

[Big Klu]

I would have preferred to have seen Paul Janish at SS tonight, but it is only one game. Maybe Dusty is playing a hunch--besides, Volquez is not exactly a ground-ball pitcher. If Gonzalez goes on the DL and Hairston gets almost exclusive PT at SS, then I'll be disappointed. But I'm not going to get worked up over one game.

[GAC]

You're a funny guy OBM, but I can relate. When I was your age, I would get so mad when the Reds lost that I'd have a headache and be in a very bad mood for the rest of the day.

Really?

I'm an old fart, and my passion for the game of baseball (playing and watching) was the driving force growing up.

Now I hated losing when PLAYING; but I never took loses from watching the Reds as hard as I've heard from this younger generation. But over the years, and on RZ, I listen to some of these younger guys taking the Reds losing a game so hard - like they want to throw themselves off a cliff - and I wonder why follow a game if one lets it get to them so bad? I'd go nuts.

[GAC]

nice play Ramon!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Man, I am LOVING this defense tonight. Great play by Ramon!

[Reds Fanatic]

Fantastic play by Hernandez on a bouncer in front of the plate.

[Red in Chicago]

Wow, Hernandez was all over that ball to get Bona...

[membengal]

That was extreme quality defensive play from Ramon there, to get out from behind the plate and get to that ball and get Bonifacio. Gracious.

[Big Klu]

What a play by Ramon!

[HeatherC1212]

This game is like a walking web gem tonight. I'm glad they cranked out a couple of runs early although I won't argue if they crank out a few more. ;)

[Reds Fanatic]

Baker walks.

[OnBaseMachine]

Bad time to walk a hitter with Hanley Ramirez on deck.

[_Sir_Charles_]

First walk of the night from Voltron. I think that start a few weeks ago really lit a fire under Edinson (the one hitter with something like 7 walks). He's really been pounding the zone since then. And he looked pissed after that walk right there. Good. I want him mad at that.

[_Sir_Charles_]

NAILED at the plate! Hairston with the relay to Nail him. :O)

[Red in Chicago]

Another great defensive play all around.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ramirez doubles to left center. The runner is thrown out at the plate. This is defensive highlight reel tonight. Perfect throws from Taveras to Hairston to Hernandez.

[membengal]

More defensive goodness from the Reds.

And a really bad decision from the Marlins 3b coach to send the runner there. But we'll take it.

[HeatherC1212]

Wow, what a great relay to get that runner at home!

[GAC]

nice relay to cut off the runner trying to score at home.

Ya did good there JHJ.

[_Sir_Charles_]

See, I knew it was a good idea to start Jerry.

*ducks all the thrown debris*

:O)

[Razor Shines]

See, I knew it was a good idea to start Jerry.

*ducks all the thrown debris*

:O)

If Janish was starting Ramon would have been waiting on the runner in front of the plate. :D

[Reds Fanatic]

Cantu fouls out to Hernandez. 2-0 Reds after 4.

[Red in Chicago]

JHJ is fired up for Cinco de Mayo

[_Sir_Charles_]

Cantu pops out to Ramon to end the inning. A bit of a threat there...hopefully Edinson sees that it was a threat because of the walk. Again...I want him to be pissed about that. I want ALL of our pitchers to be kicking themselves for tossing out free passes.

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez through 4 on 47 pitches.

[redsmetz]

More defensive goodness from the Reds.

And a really bad decision from the Marlins 3b coach to send the runner there. But we'll take it.

Maybe the 3rd base coach was reading RZ before the game and heard about horrible Hairston is at shortstop

:D

[_Sir_Charles_]

JHJ is fired up for Cinco de Mayo

LOL. I forgot that was today. Yep, that's gotta be it. "I don't always drink beer, but when I do, I drink dos equis. Stay thristy my friends."

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez grounds out to 2nd as Uggla makes a diving stop.

[Reds Fanatic]

Taveras singles.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Taveras with a single. 1 down after Volquez grounds out.

I wanna see a SWIPE here!

[CarolinaRedleg]

Havoc time!!!!!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Perfect bunt single. Dead on perfect.

[Reds Fanatic]

Perfect bunt by Hairston for a hit. 1st and 2nd with 1 out.

[HeatherC1212]

That Marlins pitcher is a giant! Wow. He would tower way over me, LOL :laugh:

[Mario-Rijo]

LOL. I forgot that was today. Yep, that's gotta be it. "I don't always drink beer, but when I do, I drink dos equis. Stay thristy my friends."

He is living vicariously thru himself tonite!!!! :thumbup:

[_Sir_Charles_]

He is living vicariously thru himself tonite!!!! :thumbup:

Those commercials are great, aren't they? :O)

[_Sir_Charles_]

Willy is bugging the heck out of the pitcher.

[Gallen5862]

Looks like Hairston is having a great game.

[Mario-Rijo]

Those commercials are great, aren't they? :O)

Yes I see Joey Votto's face every time I see them. The most interesting man in the world. He once had an awkward moment, just to see how it felt.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto walks. Bases loaded for Phillips.

[Red in Chicago]

Loaded for Phillips.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Votto draws the scared out of their minds walk to load the bases. They wanted NO part of Votto there.

[OnBaseMachine]

Come on Phillips, do your job. Get at least one of these runs in.

[Scrap Irony]

2 hits, a run scored, and a perfect relay to nail a runner at the plate in half a game. Hairston with quite a game.

Nice job by Baker to start Hairston.

[HeatherC1212]

Thank you Brandon!! :)

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips singles to center. 4-0 Reds!! 3 RBI for Phillips tonight.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Phillips coming up big tonight.

[Red in Chicago]

Phillips went the other way and what do you know, 2 rbi's.

[OnBaseMachine]

Great job by Phillips. Come on Jay.

[CarolinaRedleg]

Nice!

Take the drama out of this one early. I think after last night, nobody here would mind a rout.


....not that we'd mind the Reds routing anybody any time.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce grounds into a 4-6-3 DP. 4-0 Reds mid 5th.

[HeatherC1212]

Aww, Jay hits into a Phillips, ironically when Phillips is on base. Oh well. At least two more runs are in now.

[OnBaseMachine]

Rough night for Jay. I wish they could've gotten that other run in from third base.

[membengal]

...

[WVRedsFan]

Good to see Phillips finally getting on track. Bruce mystifies me. Against a pitcher he should hit well, he struggles. Youth.

[Reds Fanatic]

Uggla pops out to 2nd on the first pitch.

[membengal]

I always heart Phillips more when he remembers right field can be his friend. He's simply a better hitter when he uses that. I wish he would lock in on that more often.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hermida doubles off Hairston's glove as Hairston makes a diving effort.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Almost a web gem by Hairston. Just missed.

[Red in Chicago]

Almost a web gem by Hairston. Just missed.

Janish would have had it:thumbup:

[OnBaseMachine]

Janish would have had it:thumbup:

Yep.

[Mario-Rijo]

Hermida doubles off Hairston's glove as Hairston makes a diving effort.

He had that if he had just fell instead of pushing off at the end of his dive.

[membengal]

This is more hustle and energy from JHJ tonite than we have seen from him all year to this point. I do wonder how much the flu took away from him as the season opened. He was apparently sick as can be when he came back from Mexico. H1N1 anyone?

At any rate, maybe he is getting healthy now and will come out of it a bit.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ross flies out to center. 2 outs.

[OnBaseMachine]

Larkin said Hairston should have caught that. I agree. :)

[Mario-Rijo]

This is more hustle and energy from JHJ tonite than we have seen from him all year to this point. I do wonder how much the flu took away from him as the season opened. He was apparently sick as can be when he came back from Mexico. H1N1 anyone?

At any rate, maybe he is getting healthy now and will come out of it a bit.

He always seems to play better when he plays the IF, it seems to keep him in the flow better. Not that the flu didn't have some impact on him being I think so.

[Big Klu]

He always seems to play better when he plays the IF, it seems to keep him in the flow better.

Some players are like that. They get bored in the OF.

[Reds Fanatic]

Amezaga flies out to center. 4-0 Reds after 5.

[_Sir_Charles_]

pop out to center to end the inning. Edinson's looking VERY solid yet again.

[membengal]

Whatever it is, I hope JHJ keeps channeling it.

I am guessing the worried about Volquez thread will continue to slip into Bolivian (h/t Mike Tyson)...

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez through 5 on 62 pitches.

[Scrap Irony]

Phillips hitting cleanup sure has worked well today. Baker did a good job today deciding to keep Phillips in the fourth spot despite his struggles.

[Mario-Rijo]

pop out to center to end the inning. Edinson's looking VERY solid yet again.

He was looking much better before Hanley drilled that double off him earlier then he seemed to go back to picking more not too bad but a smidge. Fortunately his stuff knows no confidence issues.

<<<<<Ducks

[membengal]

Phillips hitting cleanup sure has worked well today. Baker did a good job today deciding to keep Phillips in the fourth spot despite his struggles.

Are you looking for a fight? Trying to provoke?

It's been a nice game thread. I am glad that Baker lucked into one of Phillips' rare hits against a righty tonite at clean-up, but I still don't want to see it a regular thing.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Larkin said Hairston should have caught that. I agree. :)

Well, he's 1 for 2 with a walk and a stolen base, scored 2 runs and made some nice defensive plays. Calling him out for not having more range is nitpicking IMO considering all that he's done RIGHT tonight.

[Reds Fanatic]

Rosales grounds out to 3rd on a great play by Bonifacio.

[Reds Fanatic]

Dickerson flies out to center. 2 outs.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hernandez flies out to left. George still needs to learn where the warning track is. 4-0 Reds mid 6th.

[Mario-Rijo]

Are you looking for a fight? Trying to provoke?

It's been a nice game thread. I am glad that Baker lucked into one of Phillips' rare hits against a righty tonite at clean-up, but I still don't want to see it a regular thing.

Actually I wouldn't mind it if BP took this approach more, certainly it hasn't been great but his hit was the result of being a bit more patient and not trying to pull that pitch.

[Reds Fanatic]

Caroll pinch hits and pops out to short. 1 out.

[Scrap Irony]

Are you looking for a fight? Trying to provoke?


I'm just saying Baker did a good job as manager tonight to have the #2 and #4 hitters both in the game and in their respective spots in the order. On most nights (including tonight's), others pick apart his poor (or at least those perceived as poor) moves.

When the opportunity arises (and I see obvious ones), I'll post some of his good moves.

Kind of a tit for tat thing. And one small man's small attempt at evening up the score.
:cool:

[Reds Fanatic]

4 pitch walk to Bonifacio.

[_Sir_Charles_]

4 pitch walk to Bonafacio. Not really close there. Might be time to keep a close eye on Edinson.

He may get complacent with a 4 run lead. I want him aggressive.

[membengal]

But the results in a small set don't make it a good move. Phillips WILL occasionally get a hit off a right-hander, he doesn't OPS .000 against them. So, yeah, I'm glad he got a few of his precious hits against a righty tonite, particularly because runners were on, but that still doesn't make it a good move to have him batting clean-up against RHers.

[Reds Fanatic]

Wild pitch moves the runner to 2nd.

[Mario-Rijo]

4 pitch walk to Bonafacio. Not really close there. Might be time to keep a close eye on Edinson.

He may get complacent with a 4 run lead. I want him aggressive.

Yeah he has been getting away with throwing some balls for the last couple of innings tonight because Florida has been over anxious after the great start by Edinson.

[_Sir_Charles_]

WP from Edinson. Bonafacio to second.

Strike three! *whew*

KKKK

[Reds Fanatic]

Baker strikes out swinging. 4 Ks for Volquez. 2 outs.

[nate]

That strike 3 pitch was nasty.

[Scrap Irony]

But the results in a small set don't make it a good move. Phillips WILL occasionally get a hit off a right-hander, he doesn't OPS .000 against them. So, yeah, I'm glad he got a few of his precious hits against a righty tonite, particularly because runners were on, but that still doesn't make it a good move to have him batting clean-up against RHers.

Did tonight. Just sayin'.

[membengal]

Not sure where all the breath holding is coming from with EV. He will give up the occasional walk (or more). That's just who he is right now at this stage in his career. We may need to learn to accept that as a part of his make-up rather than getting upset at the inevitable walks. He is really good at what he does otherwise, and limits hits like nobodys business. Even in the Atl seven walk debacle (which I saw live) only two runs in because he only allowed one hit.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Hanley strikesout on a foul tip.

KKKKK

4-0 Redlegs after 6. Edinson's line. 6ip / 2 hits / 2 bb / 5 k's / 0 r
ERA has fallen from 4.45 at the start of the game to 3.67.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ramirez strikes out swinging. 5 Ks. 4-0 Reds after 6.

[membengal]

Did tonight. Just sayin'.

Yes. Good for the Reds and Dusty, tonight they hit on a 16 against a dealers 5 and it worked out. I still don't like it as a long-term strategy. That is no knock on Brandon. He is miscast where they use him in the batting order, and it leads to far more frustration with him than he deserves. He is a magnificent second basemen, and this team is better for him being on it.

[Reds Fanatic]

Volquez through 6 on 79 pitches.

[Mario-Rijo]

Not sure where all the breath holding is coming from with EV. He will give up the occasional walk (or more). That's just who he is right now. We may need to learn to accept that as a part of his make-up.

If you are talking about me, I am merely expressing the fact that I have a hunch or 2 about him. I know hunches are often met with skepticism around here, it's somehow viewed as voodoo or something. If you are watching him pitch tonight you should see that if this were a more patient bunch he was facing he'd be in a bit more trouble right now. That is worth holding my breath over just a little bit IMO.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hayden Penn in to pitch.

Volquez strikes out swinging.

[Reds Fanatic]

Taveras flies out to center.

[Strikes Out Looking]

Volquez through 6 on 79 pitches.

Edison and Johnny have sure gotten the message lately about pitch efficiency. By the way, the Reds come into tonights game 4th in the NL in ERA.

[membengal]

Here's something fun with this pitching staff, their starters are really giving the 'pen a nice break from game to game. Last night everyone got used except for Cordero, and it looks like Edinson is going to go deep enough tonite to give them all the night off, unless Dusty wants to get Cordero some work.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hairston doubles down the right field line.

[membengal]

If you are talking about me, I am merely expressing the fact that I have a hunch or 2 about him. I know hunches are often met with skepticism around here, it's somehow viewed as voodoo or something. If you are watching him pitch tonight you should see that if this were a more patient bunch he was facing he'd be in a bit more trouble right now. That is worth holding my breath over just a little bit IMO.

Or maybe he would change his approach to work down in the zone. If he sees them chasing, shouldn't he keep offering them the opportunity to chase?

[OnBaseMachine]

Hairston's had a nice night at the plate. Good to see. I still think Janish needs to play everyday at SS until the Reds can find a better option.

[Reds Fanatic]

Intentional walk to Votto.

[membengal]

Make 'em pay, Brandon.

[membengal]

Hairston's had a nice night at the plate. Good to see. I still think Janish needs to play everyday at SS until the Reds can find a better option.

Indeed.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Hairston doubles down the right field line.

Jerry's got a six pack of corona waiting for him at his locker. I just KNOW it! :O)

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips with a bomb to left. 7-0 Reds!! 6 RBI for Brandon!

[Red in Chicago]

BP Tattoo'd that one

[_Sir_Charles_]

BYE BYE!!!! Brandon's back baybee! :jump: 7-0 Reds after Phillip's dinger.

[membengal]

Site for sore eyes.

Great night for Brandon. Well done, Brandon. THAT will keep teams from pitching around Votto.

[OnBaseMachine]

HUGE night for Phillips! Great to see. 7-0 Reds!

[Mario-Rijo]

Or maybe he would change his approach to work down in the zone. If he sees them chasing, shouldn't he keep offering them the opportunity to chase?

Maybe, I haven't come to any conclusions about it yet. Just on to some things with him I think. He seems to try to avoid the hits by picking away, which is fine except when the opposition is patient he is still putting people on via the walk and running up his pitch count. To answer your question that would be great if it's what he was doing but his results tonight are largely a result of being a bit more wild in the zone than usual and pitching to a group of hitters that really aren't real selective.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce singles.

[HeatherC1212]

Thanks again Brandon! :jump:

[_Sir_Charles_]

Lack of offense? What lack of offense?!? Bruce with a single on the first pitch.

[membengal]

It would be nice timing if Brandon and JHJ will snap out of it now with the Milwaukee and St. Louis stretch ahead of the team...

[RedsManRick]

How can you face Phillips as a righty and not throw him a single pitch low and away? Good job by BP to take advantage of it.

[Reds Fanatic]

Rosales grounds out to 3rd. 7-0 Reds mid 7th.

[OnBaseMachine]

Where was this offense last night? ;)

[nate]

I believe that Brandon got all of that one.

[CarolinaRedleg]

Half a rack of ribs for Phillips. Nice to see that bat coming around.

[Mario-Rijo]

How can you face Phillips as a righty and not throw him a single pitch low and away? Good job by BP to take advantage of it.

Yes patient and selective and there hit the ball where it was pitched, just like earlier. He keeps that up and we are on to something.

[VR]

By the way, the Reds come into tonights game 4th in the NL in ERA.


5th in the majors....... .16 off the lead....if the goose eggs keep coming tonight could end up at #2. In the major leagues. Pitching. Reds. Bizarro. World.

[redsmetz]

Where was this offense last night? ;)

I've thought that so many times over the years - you lose three close games and then score enough runs to have won all of them. Argh!!!

[membengal]

Maybe, I haven't come to any conclusions about it yet. Just on to some things with him I think. He seems to try to avoid the hits by picking away, which is fine except when the opposition is patient he is still putting people on via the walk and running up his pitch count. To answer your question that would be great if it's what he was doing but his results tonight are largely a result of being a bit more wild in the zone than usual and pitching to a group of hitters that really aren't real selective.

EV is a weird bird on the mound. He works OT to limit hits, and will issue free passes sometimes to do it. It's not the way I am used to watching a pitcher work, but have come to try and chill about it with him. The problem with that approach is perhaps best embodied in that Atl game, or any game where he is at 114 pitches in the sixth. Still, it works for him in that he generally limits runs.

And when he is on? Unhittable. I keep expecting to see a no-hitter from EV on any given night that he takes the mound. It may come while he walks five, but it will come at some point.

[TheNext44]

Hairston's had a nice night at the plate. Good to see. I still think Janish needs to play everyday at SS until the Reds can find a better option.

I'd like to see that last part best. JHJ and Janish are not major league starters at SS.

[Strikes Out Looking]

By the way, I don't think Votto is going to get so many walks tommorow.:)

[Reds Fanatic]

Cantu walks.

[Scrap Irony]

Not sure where all the breath holding is coming from with EV. He will give up the occasional walk (or more). That's just who he is right now. We may need to learn to accept that as a part of his make-up.

Good call. Reminds me of AJ Burnett.

[HeatherC1212]

5th in the majors....... .16 off the lead....if the goose eggs keep coming tonight could end up at #2. In the major leagues. Pitching. Reds. Bizarro. World.

Wow, that would be insane. We are in bizarro world but I don't want it to end if it means we get to watch HAVOC all season long! :)

Did the strike zone just get smaller again?!

[redsmetz]

I'd like to see that last part best. JHJ and Janish are not major league starters at SS.

But in the course of a season, you're going to see guys like this start some games here and there. Go back and look at how many games Darryl Chaney started back in the day.

[membengal]

Good call. Reminds me of AJ Burnett.

Nods in agreement...

[Mario-Rijo]

Wow, that would be insane. We are in bizarro world but I don't want it to end if it means we get to watch HAVOC all season long! :)

Did the strike zone just get smaller again?!

No he is aiming the ball and trying to overthrow it. Someone tell him to take a breath and take something off he has a 7 run lead.

And out pops Pole! Thanks Dick!

[_Sir_Charles_]

back to back walks. Time to get someone up. He's lost his concentration if you ask me.

[Reds Fanatic]

Uggla walks. 1st and 2nd. I am not sure Volquez knows how to handle a 7 run lead. The Reds usually don't score this many runs in 3 of his starts.

[OnBaseMachine]

Get someone ready in the pen.

You can't walk back to back hitters with a seven run lead in the 7th inning. Come on Edinson.