4/29/12 - Reds vs Astros

[Reds Fanatic]

Reds lineup:

Stubbs cf
Cozart ss
Votto 1b
Phillips 2b
Bruce rf
Ludwick lf
Frazier 3b
Hanigan c
Latos p

[Reds Fanatic]

Astros lineup:

Schafer CF
Altuve 2B
Lowrie SS
Martinez LF
Buck RF
Downs 1B
Johnson 3B
Castro C
Lyles P

[VottoFan54]

Stubbs went 0-4 with a K yesterday, Dusty needs to move him down in the lineup pretty soon.

[kaldaniels]

So it looks like Bruce will lead the Reds in all triple crown categorys for April.

[Vottomatic]

If this is Bruce's hot streak, wouldn't it be smart to move him to cleanup for awhile until he hits that cold streak? :D

[_Sir_Charles_]

And this game is underway!

[Reds Fanatic]

Schafer fouls out to 1st.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I hope this isn't a trend we'll see today. Latos getting squeezed already....according to Gameday that is. I'm blacked out for Houston. :-(

[Kc61]

Stubbs went 0-4 with a K yesterday, Dusty needs to move him down in the lineup pretty soon.

Agree. At minimum, he should go back to Cozart leading off and Stubbs second. Drew gets better pitches to hit when he's in front of Votto.

Dusty obviously would love to have Stubbs leading off but it doesn't usually work out. I don't know why Dusty would change the Cozart/Stubbs tablesetting combo which worked so well a few days ago.

[Reds Fanatic]

Altuve doubles to right.

[KittyDuran]

View from my seat...6091

[_Sir_Charles_]

nm

[_Sir_Charles_]

View from my seat...6091

Did you get season tickets Kitty? You sure seem to be going to a ton of games.

<----extremely jealous :O)

[Reds Fanatic]

Lowrie singles to right. 1-0 Astros

[_Sir_Charles_]

Crud. 1-0 Lastros.

[Kc61]

The double was lucky, just inside the line, seemed foul off the bat.

The RBI single was smoked.

[757690]

Altuve doubles to right.

It was a bloop that just barely hit the fair line in right.

[KittyDuran]

Did you get season tickets Kitty? You sure seem to be going to a ton of games.

<----extremely jealous :O)

2 packages: 20 games in the 4192 Club & Baker's dz in the upper deck. This ticket was purchased separately. BTW, Heather is here but on the 3rd base side. Photo day before the game.

[Reds Fanatic]

Martinez flies out to the track in center. 2 outs.

[757690]

Latos is getting the ball up so far. Not a good sign.

[_Sir_Charles_]

2 packages: 20 games in the 4192 Club & Baker's dz in the upper deck. This ticket was purchased separately. BTW, Heather is here but on the 3rd base side. Photo day before the game.

Well have fun Kitty. And you need to work on your luck-bringing ability. Get us that W! :O)

[KittyDuran]

Hitting Latos pretty good... Hope to get out of the inning w/minimal damage.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Latos wasn't getting the call on the low strikes, high ones out of the zone are being called strikes.

Not a great start. Let's hope he settles down.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Stubbs steals a dinger from Buck. *whew*

They got some serious wood on Latos that inning it seemed.

[Reds Fanatic]

Nice catch by Bruce against the wall. 1-0 Astros mid 1st.

[Kc61]

Nice catch by Stubbs. Maybe a sign of good luck today.

[kaldaniels]

So who is heading over to twitter to heckle Dallas?

[Screwball]

Looked like Latos thought outs 2 and 3 were homers off the bat. Good thing it's chilly out today.

[_Sir_Charles_]

So who is heading over to twitter to heckle Dallas?

:nono: :bash: :nono:

[757690]

Stubbs wasn't afraid of the wall. Hope that is a sign of his learning curve.

[WVRedsFan]

Looks like we're gonna need lots of runs today. Strikeout coming.

[Reds Fanatic]

Stubbs strikes out swiging.

[WVRedsFan]

Stubbs strikes out swiging.

That's the problem! Drinking again :)

[_Sir_Charles_]

That's the problem! Drinking again :)

LOL. I didn't even notice that. :beerme:

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart walks.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart steals 2nd.

[Screwball]

That throw by the Astros catcher was God awful.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Chin music

[kaldaniels]

Chin music to Votto.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto lines out to right.

[WVRedsFan]

Votto swung at a bad pitch.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips grounds out to 2nd. 1-0 Astros after 1.

[_Sir_Charles_]

After the way Brandon looked on that triple yesterday, I think it's time to move him back to the top slot in the order. Cozart looks much better in the 2 hole than leading off. And Drew...he's just not a lead off hitter.

[Reds Fanatic]

Fly out to left. 1 out.

[kbrake]

Latos getting hit pretty hard.

[_Sir_Charles_]

*sigh* Double to left.

[Reds Fanatic]

Johnson doubles down the left field line

[WVRedsFan]

Everything is up. Not good.

[Reds Fanatic]

Castro singles to right. 1st and 3rd.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Sheesh! Come on. Somebody go out and talk to him!

[757690]

Latos getting hit pretty hard.

Well it still is April. maybe they should have hid the calendars from Latos ;)

[_Sir_Charles_]

2-0 Astros. Sac bunt.

[WVRedsFan]

Squeeze.

[mth123]

After the way Brandon looked on that triple yesterday, I think it's time to move him back to the top slot in the order. Cozart looks much better in the 2 hole than leading off. And Drew...he's just not a lead off hitter.

As long as Votto is hitting 3rd, whoever hits second is going to look better hitting there. Stubbs heated up when moved into the 2 hole and Cozart cooled off. Coincidence? I don't think so.

[Kc61]

Nice bunt by the pitcher on high pitch with squeeze on.

Latos is all over the place.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Hanigan out to chat....FINALLY!

[Reds Fanatic]

Scafer grounds to 1st. Votto lost his footing and Scafer reaches

[WVRedsFan]

Votto falls and runner safe at first

[Reds Fanatic]

Latos was also late covering 1st.

[kaldaniels]

I don't think that was Latos fault Welsh.

[WVRedsFan]

This is not good.

[Kc61]

Votto should have let Phillips field that ball.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Marty saying that Votto should've let Phillips get that as he was right in position.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Schafer tossed

[Reds Fanatic]

Schafer caught stealing 2nd. Schafer is tossed as he slams his helmet at 2nd.

[Kc61]

Marty saying that Votto should've let Phillips get that as he was right in position.

Marty is correct.

Caught stealing, Schafer ejected for arguing.

[kbrake]

I don't think that was Latos fault Welsh.

Agreed.

[HokieRed]

As long as Votto is hitting 3rd, whoever hits second is going to look better hitting there. Stubbs heated up when moved into the 2 hole and Cozart cooled off. Coincidence? I don't think so.

Agree. I suggested this over on ORG the other day. Got to wonder whether it's been worth it, in a way.

[757690]

I don't think that was Latos fault Welsh.

It wasn't, but he still was late to the bag.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Was Schafer out on the replay?

[Reds Fanatic]

He looked out to me

[VottoFan54]

Schafer looked out on replay.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Thanks guys.

[Reds Fanatic]

Brian Bogusevic in to play center

[WVRedsFan]

No replay, but he was out

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce flies out to left

[_Sir_Charles_]

Jay flies out to left.

Let me reiterate....to LEFT. Watch out folks. :O)

[REDSEER]

Welsh does have a point there. If Latos gets to the bag first and catches the ball with his foot on the bag (albeit a very difficult play) then Schafer is out. Marty is right as well that that should be Phillips' ball first.

[WVRedsFan]

Kid doesn't nibble. Just throws strikes.

[Reds Fanatic]

Ludwick grounds out to short.

[Kc61]

Agree. I suggested this over on ORG the other day. Got to wonder whether it's been worth it, in a way.

The guy who can benefit most from hitting second is Stubbs. He does much better when he gets more strikes. It improves his confidence, he starts to hit with more power. Guy fanned 205 times last year, give him the benefit of hitting in front of Votto.

Dusty is enamored with Stubbs leading off because he wants Drew to steal bases. Steals are tough in second spot because it opens a base to walk Joey.

Dusty should forget the steals right now and hit Drew second.

[HokieRed]

The guy who can benefit most from hitting second is Stubbs. He does much better when he gets more strikes. It improves his confidence, he starts to hit with more power. Guy fanned 205 times last year, give him the benefit of hitting in front of Votto.

Dusty is enamored with Stubbs leading off because he wants Drew to steal bases. Steals are tough in second spot because it opens a base to walk Joey.

Dusty should forget the steals right now and hit Drew second.

I'm pretty much committed to the idea that guys who strike out one time in 3 AB's should hit 8th or 9th. Period.

[Reds Fanatic]

Frazier grounds out to short. 2-0 Astros after 2.

[kaldaniels]

Welsh does have a point there. If Latos gets to the bag first and catches the ball with his foot on the bag (albeit a very difficult play) then Schafer is out. Marty is right as well that that should be Phillips' ball first.

He kinda stutter stepped right at the end, but lets be clear. He was not lolly-gagging over there.

[WVRedsFan]

Why does this team struggle against pitchers they haven't seen before? Or is it just Sunday?

[Vottomatic]

Typical Reds...........getting no hit by some no name rookie. Never fails.

We stink.

Does Bob have the guts to fire Walt for the Latos trade? Looking bad every outing.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Lyles is nothing special, at least he hasn't been in the minors. But for some reason, we're struggling against him.

[WVRedsFan]

Latos had a great outing last time!

[Reds Fanatic]

Latos is also known for getting off to slow starts to the year. He will be fine.

[kaldaniels]

Typical Reds...........getting hit by some no name rookie. Never fails.

We stink.

Does Bob have the guts to fire Walt for the Latos trade? Looking bad every outing.

Yes or No, are you advocating firing Walt for the Latos trade?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Altuve pops out to Bruce. 1 down.

[Reds Fanatic]

Altuve flies out to right.

[REDSEER]

He kinda stutter stepped right at the end, but lets be clear. He was not lolly-gagging over there.

Agreed. I think Welsh was getting at the fact that the ball beat the runner there. However, you kind of have to stutter to step to slow down.

[Tom Servo]

Typical Reds...........getting no hit by some no name rookie. Never fails.

We stink.

Does Bob have the guts to fire Walt for the Latos trade? Looking bad every outing.
Dude, it's been 2 innings.

[Vottomatic]

Yes or No, are you advocating firing Walt for the Latos trade?

If Latos continues to struggle.

The Latos trade will go down as Walt's claim to fame, good or bad.

[kaldaniels]

Breaking News:

Welsh reports Schafer has potty-mouth.

[Degenerate39]

Have the Reds been on base at all? Just got home from work

[WVRedsFan]

Cozart walked earlier

[Reds Fanatic]

Have the Reds been on base at all? Just got home from work

Cozart walked but that is it so far

[WVRedsFan]

47 pitches already for Mat

[Degenerate39]

Cozart walked but that is it so far

So you're saying they're being No-hit?

[Reds Fanatic]

Lowrie strikes out swingign.

[Vottomatic]

Latos in his 5th start. 3 bad/mediocre starts, 1 good start.

I'll cut him some slack since his career April stats suck, and May-September are where he's made his money.

He better start to get it together soon though.

[Reds Fanatic]

So you're saying they're being No-hit?

yes we are being no-hit

[kaldaniels]

If Latos continues to struggle.

The Latos trade will go down as Walt's claim to fame, good or bad.

Could we have a reference point in terms of ERA and a point in time? You are making a bold statement here.

[_Sir_Charles_]

1-2-3 for Latos

[Reds Fanatic]

Martinez flies out to right. 2-0 Astros mid 3rd.

[Vottomatic]

Could we have a reference point in terms of ERA and a point in time? You are making a bold statement here.

So you're saying that if Latos is mediocre to bad all season, it was a good trade? :confused:

[WVRedsFan]

Latos with a good inning. Maybe He can save Walt's job

[Tom Servo]

Latos with a good inning. Maybe He can save Walt's job
:laugh:

[Vottomatic]

Latos with a good inning. Maybe He can save Walt's job

...or maybe simply start pitching like the ace he's supposed to be. He's pitching against nearly a triple A lineup over there.

[OldXOhio]

The guy who can benefit most from hitting second is Stubbs. He does much better when he gets more strikes. It improves his confidence, he starts to hit with more power. Guy fanned 205 times last year, give him the benefit of hitting in front of Votto.

Dusty is enamored with Stubbs leading off because he wants Drew to steal bases. Steals are tough in second spot because it opens a base to walk Joey.

Dusty should forget the steals right now and hit Drew second.

I can't for the life of me understand why we're having to discuss this yet again. How much data does Dusty need to neglect to realize Stubbs isn't a leadoff hitter?

[Kc61]

Latos in his 5th start. 3 bad/mediocre starts, 1 good start.

I'll cut him some slack since his career April stats suck, and May-September are where he's made his money.

He better start to get it together soon though.

Latos will be fine. Maybe he'll be great. Maybe he'll only be good. He's only allowed two runs, it's not like he was KO'd in the first inning.

The question is whether the Reds' nearly all righty team can hit moderately decent right handed pitching on a consistent basis. They will probably get to Lyles, but it would be easier with more lefties in the lineup.

[kaldaniels]

So you're saying that if Latos is mediocre to bad all season, it was a good trade? :confused:

I did not say that.

I simply asked when you advocate firing Walt due to the trade, since you brought it up.

[_Sir_Charles_]

...or maybe simply start pitching like the ace he's supposed to be. He's pitching against nearly a triple A lineup over there.

A triple A lineup that's swinging the bats a heck of a lot better than our club. Over the course of the season, yeah...they're gonna suck. But right now, they're swinging well.

[OldXOhio]

They will probably get to Lyles, but it would be easier with more lefties in the lineup.

Ah, ah, ah, a....breu.

Pardon me

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan grounds out to 2nd.

[Vottomatic]

I did not say that.

I simply asked when you advocate firing Walt due to the trade, since you brought it up.

I think Walt is treated too much like God by too many people. One frickin' good season, the rest have been mediocre. It's not like the guy has made all the right moves. Doesn't he have one winning season of the Reds as GM in like 4 or 5?

[Vottomatic]

Ah, ah, ah, a....breu.

Pardon me

Ga-zoon-tite!

[Reds Fanatic]

Latos strikes out swinging.

[kaldaniels]

I think Walt is treated too much like God by too many people. One frickin' good season, the rest have been mediocre. It's not like the guy has made all the right moves. Doesn't he have one winning season of the Reds as GM in like 4 or 5?

You are dodging man.

You asked if Bob had the stones to fire Walt due to the Latos deal, yet you won't answer when that should happen.

[OldXOhio]

I think Walt is treated too much like God by too many people. One frickin' good season, the rest have been mediocre. It's not like the guy has made all the right moves. Doesn't he have one winning season of the Reds as GM in like 4 or 5?

Disagree. Perhaps that was the case early in his tenure, but he's been more than villified on here over the years for his inactivity at deadlines and inability to fill certain gaps in the lineup.

[WVRedsFan]

...or maybe simply start pitching like the ace he's supposed to be. He's pitching against nearly a triple A lineup over there.
Astros hitting .258, Reds .238. Reds run differential is -4 and Houston is +4. Which one looks like the AAA team?

[_Sir_Charles_]

1-2-3 go the Reds.

Latos is not the problem.

[Reds Fanatic]

Stubbs grounds out to 3rd. 2-0 Astros after 3.

[Vottomatic]

You are dodging man.

You asked if Bob had the stones to fire Walt due to the Latos deal, yet you won't answer when that should happen.

Whatever dude. And you conveniently ignored my post about his April struggles and making his money from May through September.

You're typical Redszone poster looking to argue. Too many of those 'round here. :p

[kaldaniels]

I forsee runs scored in the bottom of the 4th.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I forsee runs scored in the bottom of the 4th.


Just to be clear, do you mean in this game today? ;)

[Vottomatic]

Disagree. Perhaps that was the case early in his tenure, but he's been more than villified on here over the years for his inactivity at deadlines and inability to fill certain gaps in the lineup.

And that's my beef. I've been advocating since '10 we need a legit cleanup hitter and guy to protect Votto in the lineup, and Walt & Bob continue to ignore it. No wonder they've only won the division once and continue to fall way short of expectations.

[Reds Fanatic]

Nice catch by Ludwick

[cbowen2112]

Lyles has a no hit bid going...

[Vottomatic]

I forsee runs scored in the bottom of the 4th.

.....if they don't, can we fire Walt and Dusty? :laugh:

[_Sir_Charles_]

I know the book on Ludwick is that he's a poor defender, but from what I've seen he's been pretty good (sounded like he made a beaut there)

[Reds Fanatic]

Downs flies out to right. 2 outs.

[Vottomatic]

Lyles doesn't turn 22 until October.

21 year old eating us alive.

[Kc61]

I know the book on Ludwick is that he's a poor defender, but from what I've seen he's been pretty good (sounded like he made a beaut there)

So far the problem with Ludwick is that he's a feast or famine hitter. Swings for the fences. He fields the position just fine.

[kaldaniels]

Just to be clear, do you mean in this game today? ;)

I will let my post speak for itself, interpetation is up to you. :D

Though I did unitentionally say "runs" implying more than 1...that may be more than I bargained for.

[Reds Fanatic]

Infield hit for Johnson that goes off Frazier

[kaldaniels]

Whatever dude. And you conveniently ignored my post about his April struggles and making his money from May through September.

You're typical Redszone poster looking to argue. Too many of those 'round here. :p

Here's the thing. If you mention the Latos deal isn't looking good right now, I have no beef with that.

But to bring the "f-word" into the mix, that is when I'm gonna step up and ask you for some details. Which, I'd still like to hear, but I doubt I will. That's all.

And get your minds out of the gutter I'm not talking about that "f-word". :laugh:

[Reds Fanatic]

Castro grounds out to 2nd. 2-0 Astros mid 4th

[_Sir_Charles_]

Latos 59 pitches, 37 strikes / 22 balls.

That ain't gonna cut it Mat. Pound that zone.

[powersackers]

This feels like a must win. Or certainly a should win... anyone get that same feeling from our hitters? Bear down on this kid and hit your pitch boys.... that's me doing Brook Jacanthits job.

[Kc61]

Latos 59 pitches, 37 strikes / 22 balls.

That ain't gonna cut it Mat. Pound that zone.

Not a gem, but he's only allowed two runs. Reds should tee off against this rookie pitcher, make him work a little, get a couple of gappers.

Just ridiculous they can't touch this Lyles guy. Maybe this inning.

[WVRedsFan]

Latos 59 pitches, 37 strikes / 22 balls.

That ain't gonna cut it Mat. Pound that zone.
I sometimes wonder if that isn't the Reds' philosophy. I notice other pitchers doing the same thing the last few years.

[Reds Fanatic]

Latos 59 pitches, 37 strikes / 22 balls.

That ain't gonna cut it Mat. Pound that zone.

He has had much better control the last few inning he was at almost 40 pitches through 2.

[_Sir_Charles_]

He has had much better control the last few inning he was at almost 40 pitches through 2.

I agree. It's improving. But with the Astros hitters, go aggressively against them and they'll get themselves out. Nibbling is not the strategy against the 'stros.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart lines a double to left.

[OldXOhio]

We must look monumentally bad at the plate today because I can't understand all of this panic on here over 3 innings.

[WVRedsFan]

No hitter spoiled

[Vottomatic]

Here's the thing. If you mention the Latos deal isn't looking good right now, I have no beef with that.

But to bring the "f-word" into the mix, that is when I'm gonna step up and ask you for some details. Which, I'd still like to hear, but I doubt I will. That's all.

And get your minds out of the gutter I'm not talking about that "f-word". :laugh:

Here's the deal:
1. Walt extends Votto and BP for alot of money and alot of years.
2. Walt extends Cueto and Bruce for alot of money and years.
3. Walt trades 4 solid players/prospects for Mat Latos to solidify the starting rotation.
4. Bob/Walt/Dusty have had one winning season in their tenure TOGETHER.

Let's forget about Latos. Simply put, if this team fails to make the playoffs this year and next.......and possibly finishes .500 or worse each season just like in 2011, will Walt? will Dusty? keep their jobs. And Bob is a fan of both.

I think it gets interesting at that point if this team continues to underachieve.

And yes I realize only one month is gone. But if you're like me, you're seeing alot of the same problems this team had last season.

Just sayin'.

[_Sir_Charles_]

2 bagger for the Zack-attack!

[_Sir_Charles_]

:jump: VOTTOMATIC!!!!!

New ballgame!

[kaldaniels]

Runs sponsored by kaldaniels.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto homers to right center! Tie game 2-2.

[powersackers]

that was Long. My pep talk worked.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Runs sponsored by kaldaniels.

*high five* :beerme:

[Vottomatic]

Runs sponsored by kaldaniels.

Peace and props dude. :beerme:

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips strikes out swinging

[Kc61]

Nice call, Kal.

One big compliment to Cozart for an absolutely beautiful at bat this inning. Fell behind, stayed alive, remained patient, got the count even, then smashed a double.

He's a rookie. Other guys on this team would have K'd in that at bat. And of course Votto drives him in.

[WVRedsFan]

Runs sponsored by kaldaniels.

:thumbup:

[Vottomatic]

Welcome to the major leagues, Lyles.

[kaldaniels]

I appreciate the lengthy post Vottomatic. Totally fair opinion.

Much better than "I wonder I Bob has the guts to fire Walt for the Latos deal"

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce walks

[_Sir_Charles_]

Welcome to the major leagues, Lyles.

He pitched for the Astros last season FYI. 2-8 5.36 era.

[_Sir_Charles_]

SB for Bruce

[kaldaniels]

Cozart-Votto-BP-Bruce is probably gonna score in an inning more often than not vs an average RHP. That's my thinking.

[Big Klu]

Congratulations to Joey Votto, who has passed Hall-Of-Fame catcher Ernie Lombardi for 19th place on the Reds' all-time home run list!


Updated Reds HR list (players in italics are active):

Reds 100-Home Run Club
1. Johnny Bench - 389
2. Frank Robinson - 324
3. Tony Perez - 287
4. Adam Dunn - 270
5. Ted Kluszewski - 251
6. George Foster - 244
7. Ken Griffey, Jr. - 210
8. Eric Davis - 203
9. Barry Larkin - 198
10. Vada Pinson - 186
11. Wally Post - 172
12. Gus Bell - 160
13. Joe Morgan - 152
13. Pete Rose - 152
15. Lee May - 147
16. Dan Driessen - 133
17. Brandon Phillips - 126
18. Reggie Sanders - 125
19. Joey Votto - 121
20. Ernie Lombardi - 120
21. Sean Casey - 118
22. Frank McCormick - 110
23. Dave Parker - 107
24. Jay Bruce - 106
25. Chris Sabo - 104
26. Dave Concepcion - 101

[Reds Fanatic]

Ludwick flies out to right.

[WVRedsFan]

Interesting. Kid can't throw a strike and we are hacking

[OldRightHander]

Interesting. Kid can't grow a strike and we are hacking

What kind of plant do they grow on?

[BuckeyeRedleg]

That was one ugly looking at bat by Frazier.

[WVRedsFan]

What kind of plant do they grow on?

Fixed that :). Frazier swings at a ball and a pitch no one could hit

[Reds Fanatic]

Frazier chased a high inside pitch and strikes out swinging. 2-2 after 4.

[HokieRed]

Lyles needs to learn lesson #1 of pitching against us. Make everybody but Votto and Bruce beat you. On second thought, maybe he knows half of it: he walked Bruce.

[Kc61]

SB for Bruce


Lyles needs to learn lesson #1 of pitching against us. Make everybody but Votto and Bruce beat you. On second thought, maybe he knows half of it: he walked Bruce.

He went after right handed fence swinger Ludwick and right handed rookie Frazier. That was wise in both cases. Should have been more careful with Votto, though, sure he's being told that on the Astros bench right now.

[Reds Fanatic]

Lyles strikes out swinging. 2 Ks for Latos

[WVRedsFan]

Lagos nibbled with the pitcher and then decided to throw strikes. Strange philosophy.

[HokieRed]

He went after right handed fence swinger Ludwick and right handed rookie Frazier. That was wise in both cases. Should have been more careful with Votto, though, sure he's being told that on the Astros bench right now.

Got to have two more bats, preferably left-handed.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bogusevic fly out to left. 2 outs.

[WVRedsFan]

Got to have two more bats, preferably left-handed.

One with power please

[Reds Fanatic]

Altuve singles to center.

[HokieRed]

One with power please

I'd like one, but if this team really wants to challenge, I think we need two.

[Kc61]

I'm seeing Mat facing a rather tough strike zone today. Last two hitters, a couple of pitches, like where were they ump.

[Kc61]

I'm seeing Mat facing a rather tough strike zone today. Last two hitters, a couple of pitches, like where were they ump.

LOL, next pitch Mat gets a favorable called strike.

[_Sir_Charles_]

2 outs, 2 strikes....quit paying so much attention to Altuve at first. Get the guy at the plate.

[powersackers]

Who's the Fox trivia answers? Billy Hatcher and a Red Sox guy....who?

[OldRightHander]

Got to have two more bats, preferably left-handed.

Is there a difference between a left handed and right handed bat? Maybe the grain of the wood is different. That might explain some of the offensive problems if the left handed hitters have been using right handed bats and vise versa.

[WVRedsFan]

Where was that?

[_Sir_Charles_]

Jeez. 4-2 Astros.

[OldRightHander]

$&@)!!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Where was that?

Over the fence.

[Reds Fanatic]

Lowrie homers to right. 4-2 Astros.

[WVRedsFan]

He should have struck out before that HR

[OldRightHander]

He was obviously using a left handed bat.

[kbrake]

No command all day. Not an issue of nibbling he cant throw anything where he wants it.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I blame that one on focusing too much attention on the runner and nibbling instead of just going after the batter. 1-2 count and he's nibbling. Grrrrr.

[Vottomatic]

I think Latos "attractive" wife should cut him off until he starts pitching better. :D

[Kc61]

He should have struck out before that HR

Yes. Latos was angry after the homer and I don't think it was anger at his pitch.

The umpire squeezed him and Latos finally gave in and made the pitch too good.

This umpire doesn't believe in the outside corner of the plate. Latos struck out that batter several times on the outside corner and the ump just didn't see it.

Terrible.

[HokieRed]

Is there a difference between a left handed and right handed bat? Maybe the grain of the wood is different. That might explain some of the offensive problems if the left handed hitters have been using right handed bats and vise versa.

I think you might have something. I'd be in favor of anything. Let's get the guys to trade bats around, see if it makes a difference.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Yes. Latos was angry after the homer and I don't think it was anger at his pitch.

The umpire squeezed him and Latos finally gave in and made the pitch too good.

This umpire doesn't believe in the outside corner of the plate. Latos struck out that batter several times on the outside corner and the ump just didn't see it.

Terrible.

FWIW, game day has ALL of those balls outside the zone. None on the black.

[kbrake]

Yes. Latos was angry after the homer and I don't think it was anger at his pitch.

The umpire squeezed him and Latos finally gave in and made the pitch too good.

This umpire doesn't believe in the outside corner of the plate. Latos struck out that batter several times on the outside corner and the ump just didn't see it.

Terrible.

Those were both borderline at best I thought they looked a bit away. Latos threw all fastballs in that AB because he doesn't have command of anything else. Can't blame the umpire for everything.

[powersackers]

Yes. Latos was angry after the homer and I don't think it was anger at his pitch.

The umpire squeezed him and Latos finally gave in and made the pitch too good.

This umpire doesn't believe in the outside corner of the plate. Latos struck out that batter several times on the outside corner and the ump just didn't see it.

Terrible.

Should be easy for our hitters too then.

[OldRightHander]

He should have struck out before that HR

An epidemic on this homestand.

[Vottomatic]

http://www.athleteswives.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Dallas-Latos.jpg

Dallas is not happy right now.

[Kc61]

FWIW, game day has ALL of those balls outside the zone. None on the black.

Ok, all I can go by is my view on the TV screen. I think Mat thought they were strikes.

[HokieRed]

Yes. Latos was angry after the homer and I don't think it was anger at his pitch.

The umpire squeezed him and Latos finally gave in and made the pitch too good.

This umpire doesn't believe in the outside corner of the plate. Latos struck out that batter several times on the outside corner and the ump just didn't see it.

Terrible.

He's got to know not to come in just b/c the umpire stinks (or to avoid RZ carping about nibbling.) Throw slop out of the zone and work the next hitter.

[757690]

I blame Welsh. He was talking about how pitching in GABP shouldn't effect Latos, even though he's a flyball pitcher.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Infield single for Hanny. 8 game hitting streak.

[Reds Fanatic]

Infielld hit for Hanigan. 8 game hit streak

[_Sir_Charles_]

Sac bunt by Latos. Ryan to 2nd.

[Kc61]

Latos remains in the game to bunt and does so successfully.

I would have hit for him and played for the big inning.

[OldRightHander]

I thought there was going to be a force at 2nd for a second there

[Reds Fanatic]

Stubbs grounds out to short. 2 outs.

[Vottomatic]

Latos remains in the game to bunt and does so successfully.

I would have hit for him and played for the big inning.

He's only at 80 pitches. He's got another inning in him.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Latos remains in the game to bunt and does so successfully.

I would have hit for him and played for the big inning.

Agreed. Day off tomorrow too, so pen shouldn't be an issue.

[HokieRed]

Stubbs grounds out to short. 2 outs.

Now at .607, what was Janish last year?

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart lines another double to left. 4-3 Astros.

[_Sir_Charles_]

He's only at 80 pitches. He's got another inning in him.

But he's not throwing strikes, I don't care how "tired" he is or not, he's got little command.

Speaking of command, Cozart has some with the stick. :O)

[Reds Fanatic]

Intentional walk to Votto

[OldRightHander]

Second 2B for Cozart to make it 4-3 and Joey getting the IBB. Does it really surprise you? Brandon needs to make them pay.

[Kc61]

He's only at 80 pitches. He's got another inning in him.

Mat's allowed four runs in five innings. Lead off hit for Hanigan, if I'm managing, he's out of the game.

I'm a Latos fan, not knocking him, but I want the pinch hitter up there.

Glad the Reds scored, just a different philosophy. I think Dusty bunts too much.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips grounds out to short on the first pitch. 4-3 Astros after 5.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Brandon needs to make them pay.

Or not. :(

[HokieRed]

Intentional walk to Votto

They're learning.

[kbrake]

This team has to find someone to protect Votto. That was pathetic.

[Kc61]

This team has to find someone to protect Votto. That was pathetic.

Against this pitcher, Bruce should be hitting cleanup. That was not a good effort by Brandon.

[WVRedsFan]

Phillips is streaky. Bad streak today caused by impatience

[kbrake]

Against this pitcher, Bruce should be hitting cleanup. That was not a good effort by Brandon.

I agree whenever Bruce is hot he should be hitting 4th but he has to learn some consistency before Dusty will ever get over the consecutive lefties thing.

[Reds Fanatic]

Buck pops out to 3rd.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Central Updates:

Cubs 3 Phillies 0 5th inning
Pirates 2 Braves 1 4th inning
Cards 1 Brewers 0 2nd inning

[OldRightHander]

Central Updates:

Cubs 3 Phillies 0 5th inning
Pirates 2 Braves 1 4th inning
Cards 1 Brewers 0 2nd inning

And Reds 6 Astros 4 in the 6th...

[_Sir_Charles_]

And Reds 6 Astros 4 in the 6th...

:laugh: :beerme:

[Kc61]

Phillips is streaky. Bad streak today caused by impatience

Phillips is a good player, but he should hit sixth.

I thought that inning was classic Reds offense. Do a little damage but come up short. Three base runners, just about the Reds limit these days. Without the homer, inning ultimately evaporates.

[kaldaniels]

Phillips is streaky. Bad streak today caused by impatience

With runners on the other day he watched a first pitch meatball go by. I expected a hack today.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Wow. Dinger.

[Reds Fanatic]

Another homer. Downs homers to right center.

[kbrake]

Ok I've seen enough of Latos for today.

[paintmered]

That was a GABP cheapie special.

[Kc61]

Dusty. Latos allowed four runs in five innings. You had a lead off hit last inning.

Stop looking at pitch counts. When behind in the middle innings and your pitcher isn't doing well, use a pinch hitter. Go to the pen.

The idea is not to lose but save your bullpen. The idea is to win, even if the pen must be used.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Latos has been living in the upper half of the zone. If somebody pulls up the pitch F/X for him today, it'll be rather top-heavy.

And yeah, he should've got yanked for the PH last inning.

[Reds Fanatic]

Johnson strikes out swinging.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Very disappointed in Latos. And not just because of today; he hasn't looked sharp except for maybe one start this season. I thought he had more velocity on his fastball. He sits right around 91-92 all game, which isn't bad, but he's not quite the power pitcher I thought he was. Man, I hope he finds his groove and turns things around.

[WVRedsFan]

Embarrassing. But this team is hitting 20 points higher and it just shows how pitiful our offense is. When will it end?

[traderumor]

Not just this series, but this week, the Astros are quickly becoming a surprising offensive team.

Latos is gonna have to make an offspeed pitch usage adjustment.

[Kc61]

Embarrassing. But this team is hitting 20 points higher and it just shows how pitiful our offense is. When will it end?

Be careful. You are tempting the "it's only April" crowd.

I wonder if they will still be saying that when it is May.

[Reds Fanatic]

Castro strikes out swinging. 5-3 Astros mid 6th

[WVRedsFan]

Be careful. You are tempting the "it's only April" crowd.

I wonder if they will still be saying that when it is May.

Or June and July. It's the first cousin to "he's young."

[_Sir_Charles_]

Not just this series, but this week, the Astros are quickly becoming a surprising offensive team.

Latos is gonna have to make an offspeed pitch usage adjustment.

It just wasn't Latos' day. As for the Astros...they're kids, they're still hyped up at being in the bigs and starting. They'll come back to earth (not that they're high up to begin with) with a resounding thud.

[kbrake]

Be careful. You are tempting the "it's only April" crowd.

I wonder if they will still be saying that when it is May.

Exactly. Still waiting to find out when exactly it won't be "its early" every time they look bad.

[HokieRed]

Embarrassing. But this team is hitting 20 points higher and it just shows how pitiful our offense is. When will it end?

When the FO gets serious about getting three players in positions where good teams get offense: LF, CF, 3b (or at least in 2 of these).