7.22.11 v. Atlanta

[klw]

No Bruce, no Rolen

Heisey RF,
Cozart SS,
Votto 1B,
Phillips 2B,
Lewis LF,
Stubbs CF,
Cairo 3B,
Hanigan C,
Arroyo P.

Bruce is out with dizzy spells.
http://marksheldon.mlblogs.com/2011/07/22/bruce-missing-from-friday-lineup/

Rolen still fighting the shoulder soreness


m_sheldon Mark Sheldon
Baker said he is still sore. Has been dealing with left shoulder lately -- RT @Graceisgone: what about rolen? #reds


Braves lineup http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2011/07/22/contemplating-carlos-beltran-and-what-cost-might-be-for-braves/
1. Prado 3B

2. Heyward RF

3. McCann C

4. Freeman 1B

5. Hinske LF

6. Gonzalez SS

7. Conrad 2B

8. McLouth CF

9. Jurrjens P

I can't believe that they have Conrad hitting in front of McLouth, what a joke. (sorry equal opportunity complaint required- I really could care less)

[HotCorner]

Lewis 5th? Ugh.

[CySeymour]

What is it, one game Rolen has played since the break? If he can't go, he needs to be disabled and get someone up who can contribute.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Just brutal. Another punt.

[757690]

Lewis 5th? Ugh.

Probably Bruce's spot and easier to just plug Lewis in there than re-arrange the whole lineup up. Most managers do that with a last minute lineup move.

[chicoruiz]

Actually, statistically speaking, next to the #1 spot the #5 spot leads off the most innings, so it's not a terrible idea to put somebody with leadoff-type skills there. Whether the 2011 edition of Freddie Lewis is that guy, of course, is debatable....

[Ron Madden]

Why do the Reds always seem so reluctant to place Scott Rolen on the DL?

[RichRed]

Lately, it's starting to look more and more like a September lineup from the Lost Decade out there.

[RedRoser]

Renteria is listed now instead of Cozart. :confused:

[LvJ]

Renteria is listed now instead of Cozart. :confused:

Yep. Uh, very curious about this. :thumbdown:

[alloverjr]

Yep. Uh, very curious about this. :thumbdown:

Cozart obviously in.

[alloverjr]

1-2-3 for Bronson with a nice play by Hanigan on a pop up. Showcase baby.

[alloverjr]

Cozart obviously in. ;)

[Brutus]

I'm trying my best not to get too optimistic about Cozart. I fully believe pitchers will start figuring him out. But I am fully willing to be wrong lol

[corkedbat]

Cozart continues to do nothing but what he's supposed to. :) Love that kid!

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Here we go with the Arroyo batting practice. Two hard-hit outs in the first now back-to-back hits to open the second.

And the DP was smoked.

[redsfaninbsg]

Here we go with the Arroyo batting practice. Two hard-hit outs in the first now back-to-back hits to open the second.

Just hope he keeps throwing himself into outs.

[wheels]

Can someone fill mein on the score? At work with no radio.

What did Cozart do?

[redsfaninbsg]

Cozart HR, 1-0 Reds 2 out T2.

[wheels]

Thanks!

[redsfaninbsg]

Conrad K's

[forfreelin04]

Here we go with the Arroyo batting practice. Two hard-hit outs in the first now back-to-back hits to open the second.

And the DP was smoked.

The fastball velocity is routinely at 85-86 mph. Correct me if I'm wrong, but couldn't he at least touch 90 last year?

If I am right, this is why he's getting smoked this year; especially against lefties. If the curve and the sinker are off the plate and he has to rely on the fastball more than 1 per at bat, balls will fly all over the park.

[VR]

Fred Lewis batting 5th. No more needs to be said.

[forfreelin04]

Fred walks.....he can do that in the 5th spot all day long

[forfreelin04]

Fred steals second, Stubbs with a NICE AB

[forfreelin04]

Jajr 30 pitches in already. I like

[forfreelin04]

Stubbs Ks in a nice AB. I'll take those considering its early in the game

[forfreelin04]

Wild pitch sends Lewis to 3rd with 1 out

[klw]

Both Lewis and Stubbs with 7 pitch AB's. Great work to running the starter out on a hot night.

[signalhome]

Both Lewis and Stubbs with 7 pitch AB's. Great work to running the starter out on a hot night.

I really love watching hitters work the count.

[redsfaninbsg]

DUSTY, WAKE UP!

[forfreelin04]

Cairo foul bunts with 2 strikes? Sorry, I'm not watching the game? What the heck?

[redsfaninbsg]

I'm so sick of Dusty.

[alloverjr]

What the eff was that? with 2 strikes?

[VR]

Stubbs Ks in a nice AB. I'll take those considering its early in the game

Not watching, what was nice about it?

[forfreelin04]

DUSTY, WAKE UP!

How do we know its was Crusty? Was Miggy trying it on his own?

[RedsManRick]

This team would do better if Dusty got himself thrown out at the top of the 1st inning every game.

[signalhome]

I'm sorry, was that seriously a squeeze attempt with two strikes? I think I'm going to throw up.

[alloverjr]

How do we know its was Crusty? Was Miggy trying it on his own?

Maybe, at the same time Lewis was trying to steal home.;)

[redsfaninbsg]

How do we know its was Crusty? Was Miggy trying it on his own?

If he tried it on his own, Fred Lewis knew it was coming magically too. He was near the plate when it was fouled off.

[REDSEER]

Unbelievable....he had to be mixed up on the count...no sane manager would do that....

right?

[forfreelin04]

Not watching, what was nice about it?

8 pitch AB

[Brutus]

This team would do better if Dusty got himself thrown out at the top of the 1st inning every game.

Extremely presumptuous.

Could have been Miguel bunting on his own. Could have been a suicide squeeze and missed sign by Lewis. Could have been a missed sign by Cairo.

Too many alternatives to assume that was Dusty.

[redsfaninbsg]

Extremely presumptuous.

Could have been Miguel bunting on his own. Could have been a suicide squeeze and missed sign by Lewis. Could have been a missed sign by Cairo.

Too many alternatives to assume that was Dusty.

Again, I guess Cairo JUST decided to bunt on his own and Lewis JUST decided on his own to run with the pitch plus what sane hitter bunts with two strikes?

[signalhome]

Extremely presumptuous.

Could have been Miguel bunting on his own. Could have been a suicide squeeze and missed sign by Lewis. Could have been a missed sign by Cairo.

Too many alternatives to assume that was Dusty.

Lewis was practically at the plate, so unless they both misread the signs, it was more than likely Dusty.

[REDSEER]

If you go back and watch the FSO feed again, they cut to Dusty giving signs after the failed bunt as if that wasn't the third strike...wow.

[forfreelin04]

Again, I guess Cairo JUST decided to bunt on his own and Lewis JUST decided on his own to run with the pitch.

That's Crusty inserting himself into the game. It's a tired act.

[Brutus]

Lewis was practically at the plate, so unless they both misread the signs, it was more than likely Dusty.

Maybe it was.

But quite frankly, with this team's lack of getting runners in from RISP lately, can anyone really blame him for trying a suicide squeeze?

I mean this team has been awful at getting runs in conventionally. I think that situation was good for trying to sneak one in.

[forfreelin04]

If you go back and watch the FSO feed again, they cut to Dusty giving signs after the failed bunt as if that wasn't the third strike...wow.

HAHA! Sounds like a NOT TOP TEN for him next Friday.

[forfreelin04]

Maybe it was.

But quite frankly, with this team's lack of getting runners in from RISP lately, can anyone really blame him for trying a suicide squeeze?

I mean this team has been awful at getting runs in conventionally. I think that situation was good for trying to sneak one in.

With 2 strikes, your being more than ridiculous with that statement.

[Brutus]

With 2 strikes, your being more than ridiculous with that statement.

No need for these types of replies.

[signalhome]

Maybe it was.

But quite frankly, with this team's lack of getting runners in from RISP lately, can anyone really blame him for trying a suicide squeeze?

I mean this team has been awful at getting runs in conventionally. I think that situation was good for trying to sneak one in.

I don't like squeezes, but hey, NL managers attempt them all the time, so there's no reason to really get that upset about it. However, with two strikes? I think that's pretty bad.

Edit: It's entirely possible Dusty was mixed up regarding the count, if what REDSEER said is true. If that's the case, then it's probably just a simple mix-up on his part. I guess that could happen to anyone.

[dsmith421]

What an absolute joke of a manager we have. Oh my goodness.

[REDSEER]

Bronson hangs one to Jurrjens...who hits it off of the end of the bat to Lewis. 2 down

[Brutus]

I don't like squeezes, but hey, NL managers attempt them all the time, so there's no reason to really get that upset about it. However, with two strikes? I think that's pretty bad.

Actually I think it was the perfect time to do it. No one is expecting it for starters.

But more importantly, Cairo handles the bat arguably better than anyone on the entire roster outside of Votto. He has only 19 strikeouts in 152 plate appearances.

Given that they gave him a chance to get a run in with a flyball, on two strikes the odds against Jurrjens increase dramatically that he'll get a groundball. If it's to the left side, the run doesn't score.

So the odds of Cairo not getting a bunt down were slim. I'd say it was a good decision to try it with Cairo up.

[alloverjr]

Edit: It's entirely possible Dusty was mixed up regarding the count, if what REDSEER said is true. If that's the case, then it's probably just a simple mix-up on his part. I guess that could happen to anyone.

Yeah, Walt should invest in one of those giant scoreboard thingies that shows the pitch count. :p

[redsfaninbsg]

I don't like squeezes, but hey, NL managers attempt them all the time, so there's no reason to really get that upset about it. However, with two strikes? I think that's pretty bad.

Edit: It's entirely possible Dusty was mixed up regarding the count, if what REDSEER said is true. If that's the case, then it's probably just a simple mix-up on his part. I guess that could happen to anyone.

Kind of like how he got mixed up on his lineup when he was with the Cubs and had his team bat out of order?

[kbrake]

I've never seen this board happy with a manger and even a year after finally winning this one gets killed on a nightly basis. Dusty messed up on the count, it sucks but it happens. It happens to everyone. The constant negativity on this board is making it difficult to read. Not like we're Cubs fans.

[redsfaninbsg]

Not like we're Cubs fans.

No, we just have a manager they rejected years ago.

[signalhome]

Actually I think it was the perfect time to do it. No one is expecting it for starters.

But more importantly, Cairo handles the bat arguably better than anyone on the entire roster outside of Votto. He has only 19 strikeouts in 152 plate appearances.

Given that they gave him a chance to get a run in with a flyball, on two strikes the odds against Jurrjens increase dramatically that he'll get a groundball. If it's to the left side, the run doesn't score.

So the odds of Cairo not getting a bunt down were slim. I'd say it was a good decision to try it with Cairo up.

I understand what you're saying, but that bat control is the premier reason I would rather Cairo be swinging the bat. There's a very good chance he's putting the ball in play, even with two strikes. Plus, Jurrjens gets ground balls at a 42.8% rate, which isn't too bad, but it's not like he's Derek Lowe. I would have felt more comfortable letting Cairo swing, but that's just me.

[Brutus]

I've never seen this board happy with a manger and even a year after finally winning this one gets killed on a nightly basis. Dusty messed up on the count, it sucks but it happens. It happens to everyone. The constant negativity on this board is making it difficult to read. Not like we're Cubs fans.

Yes. The constant complaining, whining and excessive criticism is nearly unbearable. It's getting hard to put up with.

I'm all for being able to voice an opinion. It's a message board, after all. But people are just harping on Dusty's every move incessantly so.

[kbrake]

No, we just have a manager they rejected years ago.

And how has that worked out? From the brink of a World Series to complete crap.

[Brutus]

I understand what you're saying, but that bat control is the premier reason I would rather Cairo be swinging the bat. There's a very good chance he's putting the ball in play, even with two strikes. Plus, Jurrjens gets ground balls at a 42.8% rate, which isn't too bad, but it's not like he's Derek Lowe. I would have felt more comfortable letting Cairo swing, but that's just me.

While that's true, Cairo hits a lot of groundballs too. So between Jurrjens' tendencies and Cairo's tendencies, there was a fairly high chance that there may have been a groundball.

I think the club is in a situation it needs to roll the dice and try something to jump start it. It was a calculated risk, but worth it IMHO.

[Reds Freak]

I vote we move on. We're on to the fourth here. Still 1-0.

[mth123]

I hate bunting any way, but this manager is desperate IMO. Against RHP the Reds had Stubbs .677, Cairo .688, and Hanigan .652 coming up. If one of those guys would get a walk or an IF hit, then the pitcher was coming up. Bunting might have been the highest percentage play with those guys coming up. Even with 2 strikes.

The blame for this mess is squarely on the GM. He's ignored adding what this team needs over and over again,

[Ron Madden]

I vote we move on. We're on to the fourth here. Still 1-0.

:clap::clap:

[signalhome]

1-1. Heyward crushed that ball.

[mth123]

Along came Bronson. HR Heyward 1-1.

[signalhome]

2-1. McCann crushed that ball.

[forfreelin04]

No need for these types of replies.

No offense, but nobody in their right mind calls for a squeeze with 1 out and 2 strikes. It simply doesn't happen unless someone didn't know the count.

It's the equivalent of batting the pitcher leadoff.

[Brutus]

Bronson is to homers as to the sun rising in the East.

[alloverjr]

And again!

[Reds Freak]

Those were just complete meatballs.

[REDSEER]

uggghhh....seems like Bronson isn't finishing his pitches....so many balls up at the belt and higher

[mth123]

At least they were solo homers.;)

[Brutus]

No offense, but nobody in their right mind calls for a squeeze with 1 out and 2 strikes. It simply doesn't happen unless someone didn't know the count.

It's the equivalent of batting the pitcher leadoff.

You can believe as you wish... but insulting people because they don't subscribe to your way of thinking isn't doing anyone any favors.

I happen to disagree. I don't think there's any logical reason why bunting with two strikes is out of the question. In major league baseball, a lot of events happen with two strikes. If you start taking possibilities out of the arsenal with that logic, you give too much leverage to the pitcher.

[dsmith421]

I really think the team's indulgence of Arroyo this season is the difference between competing for the division title and languishing in fourth. Someone has to have the guts to sit him down in April when it's clear he's got no stuff whatsoever.

[REDSEER]

I wouldn't be opposed to giving Bronson a two week break and giving 2 starts to Wood/Lecure instead

[Ron Madden]

At least they were solo homers.;)

50% of back to back HRs are solo HRs. :)

[signalhome]

Man Arroyo's looking rough this inning.

Nice play by Votto.

[mth123]

50% of back to back HRs are solo HRs. :)

Did you get that from Fangraphs? Just because its obvious it can't be true without some stat to tell you what you know.

[Ron Madden]

I wouldn't be opposed to giving Bronson a two week break and giving 2 starts to Wood/Lecure instead

Me either. Bronson has been getting hit pretty hard most of the season.

[VR]

Efficient....11 pitch inning for Bronson

[kbrake]

I've seen enough of Travis Wood for awhile but if they add a starter I'd be ok with giving Arroyo some time on the DL.

[mth123]

I wouldn't be opposed to giving Bronson a two week break and giving 2 starts to Wood/Lecure instead

Agreed. I had hopes that the longer lay-off over the break would help him, but he needs to take a break IMO. It might keep him out of the record books.

[Ron Madden]

Did you get that from Fangraphs? Just because its obvious it can't be true without some stat to tell you what you know.

:laugh:

[CTA513]

Can't DL Arroyo or he won't be able to reach 50 HRs given up this season.

[mth123]

Can't DL Arroyo or he won't be able to reach 50 HRs given up this season.

You underestimate what he's been doing.;)

[mth123]

Lewis pops out. Death Valley coming up. Wake me when Heisey is up.

[REDSEER]

Phillips singles and steals second. Running all day on Jurrjens. Phillips definitely looks like he has lost a step from his 30/30 year.

[Ron Madden]

It seems Arroyo and the Reds are more concerned with Bronson's streak of never missing a start than what's actually best for the club.

[dsmith421]

Lewis and Stubbs do what they do best and Phillips is still on second.

And Cairo snatches at the first pitch and pops up.

Horrible inning.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cairo pops out to shallow right. 2-1 Braves after 4.

[alloverjr]

Execution is one thing, but this club seems to be lacking in baseball intelligence throughout the roster.

[REDSEER]

Line out to Votto.....Bronson is personally training Joey's cat-like reflexes tonight

[Reds Freak]

I'm pinch hitting for Bronson in the bottom of the 5th. Assuming he gets through this inning.

[mth123]

Execution is one thing, but this club seems to be lacking in baseball intelligence throughout the roster.

They lack talent to hit against RHP. They could all be Harvard Lawyers and it wouldn't matter.

[REDSEER]

Hard groundout to Votto and a base hit up the middle by Jurrjens

Bronson is getting absolutely tagged tonight....we need to get him out before his luck runs out

[Reds Freak]

Gee whiz.

[dsmith421]

Pop up, strike out, pop up.

This is not good.

[VR]

Can't expect to be reeling off two game winning streaks all year long.

[Reds Freak]

Pop up, strike out, pop up.

This is not good.

It's got to be a mental thing now. I mean, they rarely hit the ball hard anymore.

[redsfaninbsg]

Does Arroyo have any more rabbits in his hat?

[dsmith421]

Does Arroyo have any more rabbits in his hat?

Hanigan's expression said it all. Arroyo has absolutely nothing.

[mth123]

It's got to be a mental thing now. I mean, they rarely hit the ball hard anymore.

I just think they are very splitty. These guys kill lefties. Need to get some balance. Where's Yonder?

[Reds Freak]

Hanigan's expression said it all. Arroyo has absolutely nothing.

I'm shocked he wasn't pinch hit for in the bottom of the 5th.

[dsmith421]

I'm shocked he wasn't pinch hit for in the bottom of the 5th.

I'm not. Dusty is our manager.

3-1.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

This is awful. This game was over before the first pitch was ever thrown with Arroyo pitching and the lame lineup.

This team is overmatched. Just sell Walt.

[redsfaninbsg]

I feel bad for the people who paid money to watch this in person tonight.

[hebroncougar]

Arroyo's bad, but geeze, it's 3-1 in the sixth. Give up?

[RedsManRick]

Doesn't look like Hanigan is going to finish the game.

[mth123]

I feel bad for the people who paid money to watch this in person tonight.

Its not out of hand yet and the 3 decent bats are due up next inning.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

This game is 3-1 in the sixth and it feels like it's 9-1. This team just has nothing, especially against good teams like Atlanta.

[Brutus]

Given the backend of the Braves' bullpen, if the Reds have any prayer of a comeback, it has to probably start in the 6th.

[redsfaninbsg]

Arroyo's bad, but geeze, it's 3-1 in the sixth. Give up?

It's not over, but it's hard to have any hope. The lineup is terrible, Arroyo is lucky it's not 10-1, Dusty's head is somewhere other than GABP, and this team has played horribly for the last two months.

[dsmith421]

I can't even remember the last time the Reds scored multiple runs in an inning.

[redsfaninbsg]

I can't even remember the last time the Reds scored multiple runs in an inning.


Last Friday, I think?

[dsmith421]

Last Friday, I think?

Wow.

[kbrake]

This is awful. This game was over before the first pitch was ever thrown with Arroyo pitching and the lame lineup.

This team is overmatched. Just sell Walt.

Feel free to do something else. You claimed they punted tonight and that the game was over before the first pitch. Supposed to be a rule about beating a dead horse around here. We get it you think this team sucks.

[Reds Freak]

I can't even remember the last time the Reds scored multiple runs in an inning.

I know people are tired of hearing the Reds saying this but at some point they have to bounce out of this funk. I mean, my God.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Feel free to do something else. You claimed they punted tonight and that the game was over before the first pitch. Supposed to be a rule about beating a dead horse around here. We get it you think this team sucks.

Feel free to ignore my posts. I don't care that you don't agree with me.

[kbrake]

Feel free to ignore my posts. I don't care that you don't agree with me.

Feel free to not post this exact same crying post every single night.

[Reds Fanatic]

Tie game. Lewis homers to right center

[alloverjr]

Didn't see that coming.

[mth123]

Freddie in the 5 hole. Dusty is a genious.

[dsmith421]

YES

[alloverjr]

Nor that.

[Reds Fanatic]

Back to back homers! Stubbs homers to left. 4-3 Reds!

[Reds Freak]

Hey, Hey, Hey! There's your multiple run inning!

[dsmith421]

I believe we have multiple runs! Happy Friday!

[_Sir_Charles_]

I can't remember the last time this happened. I turn on the game right as Votto draws the walk...then boom, boom! :O)

Lewis! :jump:
Stubbs! :jump:

[hebroncougar]

I need to say that more often evidently.

[CrackerJack]

With 2 outs no less...rare for this team all year

[Brutus]

With 2 outs no less...rare for this team all year

It's 'cuz runners weren't in scoring position.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

That Lewis HR probably ended any chance the Reds ever have of signing Mr. Jurrjens later in his career. His look after that landed in the first row was priceless. And his mindset certainly effected the pitch to Stubbs.

Thom Brennanan is right: The Lewis HR is an out in Atlanta; the Stubbs HR is out of every park.

[Reds Freak]

That Lewis HR probably ended any chance the Reds ever have of signing Mr. Jurrjens. His look after that landed in the first row was priceless. And his mindset certainly effected the pitch to Stubbs.

Thom Brennanan is right: The Lewis HR is an out in Atlanta; the Stubbs HR is out of every park.

Well now we're even. Heyward's HR was an out in a lot of parks too. :)

[dsmith421]

I don't always score more than one run in an inning.....but when I do, I do it on Friday.

[redsfaninbsg]

Please no Arroyo.

[Reds Freak]

Please tell me Bronson isn't coming out of the dugout again. Otherwise, I fear this is a short-lived lead...

[Reds Freak]

Please no Arroyo.

Dusty playing with fire here... :help:

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Well now we're even. Heyward's HR was an out in a lot of parks too. :)

Including Yosemite, Yellowstone and Zion national parks.

Disagree with leaving Arroyo in here with a completely rested bullpen.

[redsfaninbsg]

Just keep throwing yourself into outs, Bronson.

[RedRoser]

Get Arroyo before he gives up the lead!

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Prado is it for Arroyo, no doubt.

[redsfaninbsg]

Who didn't see that coming?

[signalhome]

Man I thought Stubbs had that. Hit right off his glove.

[_Sir_Charles_]

One too many. :O)

[Reds Fanatic]

Home run just goes off Stubbs glove. Tie game 4-4.

[kbrake]

No one to blame but Dusty

[Guacarock]

Including Yosemite, Yellowstone and Zion national parks.

Yellowstone, Smellowstone. What about a true national landmark -- Jellystone?

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Unreal. Nice managing Dusty.

[hebroncougar]

Unbelievable that he went back out there.

[redsfaninbsg]

Toothpick out to double switch.

[dsmith421]

A tour de force from Dusty tonight.

[RedRoser]

One too many. :O)

As usual.

We need pitching. We need hitting. BUT...
The main thing this team needs has become more evident with each passing game.
We need a new skipper.
Walt, Bob, wake up and smell the dust(y).

[redsfaninbsg]

A game that you really had right in your grasps to steal and Dusty puts it back to square one.

[dsmith421]

I don't think Dusty is a bad manager per se, but this particular year every time he pulls the strings it goes wrong.

[alloverjr]

Thom said it. That was sick.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Lost in the complete mismanagement by Dusty Baker is the fact that Drew Stubbs absolutely has to catch that ball. It may have just bounced off the top of the wall back in had Stubbs not helped it over.

Sure would have been nice to see Chapman one batter earlier.

[fearofpopvol1]

Dusty has always had the propsensity to try to let pitchers "finish" the inning. It's a weird obsession, but it's always been in Dusty's DNA.

However, I don't fault him too much there. Arroyo had a low pitch count and a lead and had got the first out in the inning. Even though it would have been an incredible catch, Stubbs could have had that.

[mth123]

I don't think Dusty is a bad manager per se, but this particular year every time he pulls the strings it goes wrong.

He did hit Lewis 5th;)

[hebroncougar]

[QUOTE=Reds/Flyers Fan;2445031]Lost in the complete mismanagement by Dusty Baker is the fact that Drew Stubbs absolutely has to catch that ball. It may have just bounced off the top of the wall back in had Stubbs not helped it over.
/QUOTE]

That's a circus catch if he makes it. Nice for sure, but "absolutely has to"?? Only in Redszone........

[redsfaninbsg]

Battle of the pens, who you got?

[mth123]

Dusty has always had the propsensity to try to let pitchers "finish" the inning. It's a weird obsession, but it's always been in Dusty's DNA.

However, I don't fault him too much there. Arroyo had a low pitch count and a lead and had got the first out in the inning. Even though it would have been an incredible catch, Stubbs could have had that.

Here is an odd thought. If Philips doesn't make a great play on the lead-off guy, he gets on and Dusty pulls Bronson. Maybe Phillips great play is what lead to the tie game.

[mth123]

:clap::clap::clap:

Todd Frazier.

[Reds Freak]

Battle of the pens, who you got?

Atlanta 17-16 in one-run games. Cincinnati? 14-22.

[mth123]

Atlanta 17-16 in one-run games. Cincinnati? 14-22.

Its clear. We need a 2 run dinger here.

[Ron Madden]

Good for Todd Frazier. First MLB hit.

[Reds Freak]

Its clear. We need a 2 run dinger here.

Or for a Braves outfielder to field a ball in CF and throw it in RF for an inside-the-park HR like last year.

[fearofpopvol1]

Here is an odd thought. If Philips doesn't make a great play on the lead-off guy, he gets on and Dusty pulls Bronson. Maybe Phillips great play is what lead to the tie game.

That's a fair question

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Atlanta 17-16 in one-run games. Cincinnati? 14-22.

Encouraging.

[Kc61]

The one thing I cannot handle with this Reds manager is his refusal to remove pitchers until it is too late. He does it game after game after game.

I don't know if it is loyalty or "saving the pen" or what. But good Reds relievers always enter the game one or two batters too late. It happens all the time.

I was shocked to see Arroyo pitch the seventh inning there. Use Chaman, Masset, and Coco and maybe you shut down the Braves. Arroyo has had so much trouble, why leave him out there another inning?

Frustrating, to say the least.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Heyward and McCann had absolutely zero chance.

[fearofpopvol1]

The one thing I cannot handle with this Reds manager is his refusal to remove pitchers until it is too late. He does it game after game after game.

I don't know if it is loyalty or "saving the pen" or what. But good Reds relievers always enter the game one or two batters too late. It happens all the time.

I was shocked to see Arroyo pitch the seventh inning there. Use Chaman, Masset, and Coco and maybe you shut down the Braves. Arroyo has had so much trouble, why leave him out there another inning?

Frustrating, to say the least.

I think it's loyalty. Dusty believes his starters should get the "W" or the "L." I happen to loathe this philosophy, but it is what it is. I much prefer the Pinella or La Russa strategy of getting the pen warmed the second anything looks remotely bad.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Most impressive Chapman outing as a Red?

[redsfaninbsg]

Most impressive Chapman outing as a Red?

I remember him being pretty dominate against Milwaukee earlier this year, but that was a very strong outing.

[Reds Freak]

This would be a lovely spot for another three-run inning.

[Reds Freak]

Venters hasn't thrown a ball over the plate yet but has retired on batter and is 1-2 on the next.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

These good defensive plays the Braves are turning are getting annoying.

[signalhome]

These good defensive plays the Braves are turning are getting annoying.

Now we know how other teams' fans feel when they're up against the Reds.

[Brutus]

Venters hasn't thrown a ball over the plate yet but has retired on batter and is 1-2 on the next.

That sinker has made a lot of good hitters look absolutely silly this year...

[Kc61]

I think it's loyalty. Dusty believes his starters should get the "W" or the "L." I happen to loathe this philosophy, but it is what it is. I much prefer the Pinella or La Russa strategy of getting the pen warmed the second anything looks remotely bad.

I don't know what it is. Maybe tonight it was "lefty" "righty", leave Arroyo in for the righties, pitch Chapman against the lefties.

I don't know the reason, and really I don't care.

The Braves have a great pen, you cannot mess around with a one-run lead there. Arroyo has pitched poorly this year, it's 300 degrees out there tonight, why not use your excellent relievers?

This is the most frustrating Reds team I have seen in (too many) years of following the team.

And one of the frustrations is Baker's decisions concerning leaving in pitchers. He just constantly leaves them in too long.

Reds do nothing in the eighth.

[signalhome]

That sinker has made a lot of good hitters look absolutely silly this year...

Truth. That same brutal sinker may also have something to do with his ungodly GB%.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Can Chapman go another inning?

[redsfaninbsg]

Nick Masset in.

[Brutus]

Truth. That same brutal sinker may also have something to do with his ungodly GB%.

Indeed. With his extreme groundball tendencies combined with his strikeout rate, he may well be one of the top five relievers in the game.

[redsfaninbsg]

Braves with two shots now.

[redsfaninbsg]

Bray should be in imo.

[Reds Freak]

Bray should be in imo.

I think I'd save him for that slew of lefties they have 2-6.

[redsfaninbsg]

I think I'd save him for that slew of lefties they have 2-6.

If it gets there, it will work out. I would have brought him in to start the inning or left Chapman in.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Geez Masset ... Careful

[redsfaninbsg]

Here's Uggla.

[REDSEER]

Meanwhile, in Louisville tonight....


Louisville Bats

Player IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA
Volquez 9.0 5 2 2 0 9 0 2.55

WP: Infante, Volquez.
Pitches-strikes: Zaleski 100-63, Infante 39-21, Nunez, J 9-4, Volquez 110-82.
Groundouts-flyouts: Zaleski 10-3, Infante 1-0, Nunez, J 0-0, Volquez 12-1.

That's what we need to see

[Reds Freak]

Some pretty cool overhead shots from the blimp tonight...

[Kc61]

Win, lose or draw the Reds have a fine group of set up men.

Masset, Chapman, Ondrusek and Bray.

Just excellent.

Hopefully Nick gets out of this inning.

[Reds Freak]

Meanwhile, in Louisville tonight....


Louisville Bats

Player IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA
Volquez 9.0 5 2 2 0 9 0 2.55

WP: Infante, Volquez.
Pitches-strikes: Zaleski 100-63, Infante 39-21, Nunez, J 9-4, Volquez 110-82.
Groundouts-flyouts: Zaleski 10-3, Infante 1-0, Nunez, J 0-0, Volquez 12-1.

That's what we need to see

I would need to see 3-4 similar outings before I brought him up here again.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Meanwhile, in Louisville tonight....


Louisville Bats

Player IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA
Volquez 9.0 5 2 2 0 9 0 2.55

WP: Infante, Volquez.
Pitches-strikes: Zaleski 100-63, Infante 39-21, Nunez, J 9-4, Volquez 110-82.
Groundouts-flyouts: Zaleski 10-3, Infante 1-0, Nunez, J 0-0, Volquez 12-1.That's what we need to see


Complete game? No walks? 110 pitches?

*faints dead away*

[REDSEER]

I would need to see 3-4 similar outings before I brought him up here again.

I agree, but this is a step in the right direction....82 strikes/28 balls!

[Reds Freak]

I agree, but this is a step in the right direction....82 strikes/28 balls!

12 groundballs and 1 flyball too.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I agree, but this is a step in the right direction....82 strikes/28 balls!

Of all the numbers from that line, THAT one is the most impressive for me. Just get that knucklehead to throw strikes and he'd be money.

[_Sir_Charles_]

*sigh* 6-4 Braves.

[Kc61]

Masset pitches to Uggla. Tough battle. Count goes full.

Homer.

[redsfaninbsg]

Reds have fell in love with numero uno.

[Tom Servo]

I hate the 2011 Reds.

[CTA513]

taken deep by the .195 hitting Dan Uggla

[redsfaninbsg]

Toothpick out for another double switch.

[redsfaninbsg]

I guess we will get to see Bray against the lefties.

[Tom Servo]

I just love how it had to be a homerun too, not just a base hit. Just figures.

[_Sir_Charles_]

You know, I seriously can't remember the last time Dusty made a mid inning pitching change where he DIDN'T do a double switch. I'm not knocking Dusty...but it sure does seem odd that he does this SOOOOOOO often. I don't think I've ever seen a manager pull so many double switches before. It's constant...and odd.

[fearofpopvol1]

You know, I seriously can't remember the last time Dusty made a pitching change where he DIDN'T do a double switch. I'm not knocking Dusty...but it sure does seem odd that he does this SOOOOOOO often. I don't think I've ever seen a manager pull so many double switches before. It's constant...and odd.

Tony La Russa, especially when the Cards had So Taguchi.

[redsfaninbsg]

You know, I seriously can't remember the last time Dusty made a pitching change where he DIDN'T do a double switch. I'm not knocking Dusty...but it sure does seem odd that he does this SOOOOOOO often. I don't think I've ever seen a manager pull so many double switches before. It's constant...and odd.

I'd love to know how many double switches he's made this year.

[fisch11]

It seems like this team will never win 2 games in a row again. Always 1 step forward and 2 steps back.

[Hollcat]

I was hoping we would just walk him after it got 3-1. Another player that seems like he kills the reds and he beats us again with bases open

[Kc61]

I guess that big upcoming winning streak will have to start another day.

Reds likely will be five out, trailing three different teams, after tonight.

This just ain't happening this year.

[edabbs44]

I'd love to know how many double switches he's made this year.

Does it really make a difference?

[signalhome]

I'd love to know how many double switches he's made this year.

He has to be leading the league in DS/9.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Does it really make a difference?

Not to me. I was just musing out loud. I just thought it was odd.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Wednesday, June 15: Travis Wood got the win and Scott Rolen had three hits as the Reds beat the Dodgers 3-2 in Los Angeles. This was last time the Reds won consecutive games.

[Kc61]

I don't know the arithmetic, but the Reds will need a miracle to overcome three teams, with the Reds five games out.

Oh well, I guess that big winning streak will start another day.

And by the way, Braves are taking full advantage of GABP tonight.

[redsfaninbsg]

Does it really make a difference?

No, just making a comment. I've agreed with the DS's tonight; sorry for thinking out loud.

[Hollcat]

Has there ever been an at bat that was more likely to end in a k

[fearofpopvol1]

I am shocked Stubbs struck out

[Always Red]

Wednesday, June 15: Travis Wood got the win and Scott Rolen had three hits as the Reds beat the Dodgers 3-2 in Los Angeles. This was last time the Reds won consecutive games.

Wow. I remember when Travis Wood used to play for the Reds.

[edabbs44]

No, just making a comment. I've agreed with the DS's tonight; sorry for thinking out loud.

No worries, it's just brought up a lot and just gets added to the Dusty files.

[hebroncougar]

Man, I'm glad we let Fred bat against the lefty last inning, and Gomes against a RH in the ninth.

[edabbs44]

I am shocked Stubbs struck out

I mean, I was floored.

Gomes is next, curious as to why he didn't PH for Lewis last inning.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Just nasty.

[redsfaninbsg]

I just busted out laughing during the Gomes AB; my God, that was sad.

[Kc61]

Stubbs had a slim chance. Gomes had none.

Now Hanigan gets to end this disaster.

[signalhome]

Atlanta's back of the bullpen is ridiculously good.

[Hollcat]

Sweet! We put one in play

[Ron Madden]

WOW!

[redsfaninbsg]

It's just so frustrating to watch this team. Dusty bunting with two strikes, leaving Arroyo in who is giving up misses all night, Masset throwing three ball fastballs high over the plate. Mercy me.

[Kc61]

Wonder if Braves just withdrew their offer for Gomes.

[Tom Servo]

I just can't get over the fact that we let Uggla beat us. And I like Uggla, always have. But the dude is hitting freaking .195. That means almost every pitcher in the majors who has faced him has gotten him out...and Masset serves up a two run jack to him.

[redsfaninbsg]

The game was lost when Bronson was left in, against that bullpen you don't fool around.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

I just busted out laughing during the Gomes AB; my God, that was sad.

Say goodbye to any interest the Braves may have once had in Jonny gomes.

[Cedric]

I was at dinner and noticed that Cairo bunted with two strikes on a squeeze attempt.

Did they talk about a missed sign or something? Please someone enlighten me before I go crazy.

[Always Red]

I just can't get over the fact that we let Uggla beat us. And I like Uggla, always have. But the dude is hitting freaking .195. That means almost every pitcher in the majors who has faced him has gotten him out...and Masset serves up a two run jack to him.

The way the Reds are going right now, if they played the White Sox, Dunner would beat them in the bottom of the 8th with a bomb, and bust out of his slump.

It's just that kind of year, isn't it?

[Ron Madden]

I was at dinner and noticed that Cairo bunted with two strikes on a squeeze attempt.

Did they talk about a missed sign or something? Please someone enlighten me before I go crazy.

I believe Dusty called the play. :(

[Brutus]

I was at dinner and noticed that Cairo bunted with two strikes on a squeeze attempt.

Did they talk about a missed sign or something? Please someone enlighten me before I go crazy.

No reason to go crazy. It was a calculated risk, but one that made some sense with the Reds' best bat-handler at the plate. Given the Reds' lack of hits with RISP this year, especially recently, seems like a good time to try and jump-start them.

[redsfaninbsg]

I was at dinner and noticed that Cairo bunted with two strikes on a squeeze attempt.

Did they talk about a missed sign or something? Please someone enlighten me before I go crazy.

It's one of the worst plays I've seen in the last 15 years. Time for Dusty to go, in my book.

[Brutus]

It's one of the worst plays I've seen in the last 15 years. Time for Dusty to go, in my book.

Holy hyperbole, Batman!

[alloverjr]

Say goodbye to any interest the Braves may have once had in Jonny gomes.

I would doubt that. If there is any interest in Gomes by the Braves it would be as an outfielder with some pop to hit against lefties. That Dusty used him in a role the Braves probably wouldn't more times than not probably doesn't change their opinion of him. I would have PH Gomes for Lewis in the 8th but Dusty didn't, I assume because he was a player down with Bruce out. Now the suicide squeeze attempt, I got nothing (unless Berry is the one who blew the sign - which is possible).

[Ron Madden]

Dusty admitted in the post game interview with Pic that he thought Cairo only had one strike on him.

[Cedric]

No reason to go crazy. It was a calculated risk, but one that made some sense with the Reds' best bat-handler at the plate. Given the Reds' lack of hits with RISP this year, especially recently, seems like a good time to try and jump-start them.

It's probably the single dumbest thing I witnessed since Josh Hamilton was pinch hit for Juan Castro.

[alloverjr]

Holy hyperbole, Batman!

If Dusty called that play with 2 strikes on the hitter, I goota agree it was a bad call. I would have felt marginally different if the count was full in that Jurgens may have been more inclined to throw a strike. But in that situation with 8 and 9 behind Cairo, he may have been fine with walking Cairo and setting up a dp possibility with the catcher hitting. I can't defend that call in that situation.

[Cedric]

Dusty admitted in the post game interview with Pic that he thought Cairo only had one strike on him.

At least he admitted that. Now I feel a little better knowing he wouldn't be that stupid.

[Cooper]

The squeeze made no sense. Somebody messed up and lost the count. The infield was pulled in.

[alloverjr]

Dusty admitted in the post game interview with Pic that he thought Cairo only had one strike on him.

I knew they should have built one of those scoreboards at GABP!