5/28/12 Reds Vs Pirates

[GAC]

Thought I'd at least post the lineups. Won't be able to participate in any discussion though. We're getting ready to leave and take the daughter back to college. The Reds will on me radio though LOL

http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/sp/v/mlb/teams/20080123/80x60/cin.gif

D. Stubbs cf
W. Valdez ss
J. Votto 1b 0
B. Phillips 2b
J. Bruce rf 0
C. Heisey lf 0
M. Cairo 3b 0
R. Hanigan c
B. Arroyo p 0

http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/sp/v/mlb/teams/20080123/80x60/pit.gif

J. Tabata lf
N. Walker 2b
A. McCutchen cf
P. Alvarez 3b
G. Jones rf
M. Hague 1b
R. Barajas c
C. Barmes ss
J. McDonald p

[GAC]

Reds-Pirates Preview

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/reds-pirates-preview-232549363--mlb.html;_ylt=ArzFKmB42szDoyK0yMhkce6FCLcF


After hitting plenty of homers on a homestand, the Cincinnati Reds could find it difficult to go deep against a pitcher who has been keeping the ball in the stadium of late.
Pittsburgh Pirates starter James McDonald hasn't allowed a homer over his last 33 2-3 innings heading into Monday's opener of a three-game set against the first-place Reds.
Cincinnati (27-20) has won eight of nine, completing a 6-1 homestand in which it homered 17 times with Sunday's 7-5 victory over Colorado. Four Reds homered Sunday in a game that featured a record nine longballs at Great American Ball Park.
"The ball was flying out today," manager Dusty Baker told the Reds' official website. "That's too many home runs for them. I'll take all of ours."
McDonald (3-2, 2.51 ERA), however, figures to be stingy since he has yielded one run in five of his last seven outings. That includes a May 5 effort in which he limited the Reds to one run over 6 1-3 innings while striking out seven to earn a 3-2 victory, improving to 2-0 with a 1.90 ERA in four career home starts against them.
McDonald has struck out at least seven in six straight starts to tie Bob Veale's 1965 club record.
Several key Reds hitters have good numbers against the right-hander, with Brandon Phillips 6 for 15, Jay Bruce 5 for 13 with a homer and Joey Votto 6 for 19 with one home run.

Several Pirates could face a challenge Monday against Bronson Arroyo (2-2, 3.22). McCutchen is 1 for 16 against him, Rod Barajas is 0 for 11 and Jones is 4 for 16.

[Tom Servo]

:usa:

[mbgrayson]

A 'rest' day for Cozart and Frazier.

Valdez is 0 for 2 lifetime against McDonald, and Cairo is 2 for 8. Cozart is 0 for 6, and Frazier is 0 for 3.

[reds44]

Valdez batting 2nd and Hanigan 8th.

http://www.deviantart.com/download/271471986/yotsuba__why_god_why__by_muna56-d4hml4i.jpg

[RedsManRick]

Good to see Dusty give Hanigan a chance to give Votto some RBI opportunities by batting him 2nd when Cozart or Stubbs are out. Wait, what?

[Degenerate39]

Shortstop bats 2nd dude

[Tom Servo]

Stubbs K's.

[Reds Fanatic]

Stubbs strikes out swinging.

[Reds Fanatic]

Valdez strikes out swinging.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto continues to roll singles to center.

[Tom Servo]

At least we won't be no hit.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips grounds into a 5-4 FC. 0-0 mid 1st.

[Reds Fanatic]

Tabata grounds out to 2nd.

[Reds Fanatic]

Walker singles

[Reds Fanatic]

McCutchen grounds out to 3rd. 2 outs. Runner to 2nd.

[Reds Fanatic]

wild pitch moves the runner to 3rd

[RollyInRaleigh]

That was not a wild pitch. Don't know what's up, but Hannigan's receiving has been awful, lately.

[Reds Fanatic]

Alvarez doubles off the wall in left. 1-0 Pirates. Missed by inches being a home run.

[Plus Plus]

Also to note is that a foul tip strike 3 was dropped on the pitch before the double.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Yep

[Reds Fanatic]

Jones singles to right. 2-0 Pirates.

[Tom Servo]

This may be a tough one to win. Pirates hitting Arroyo well, and we got the B-Squad in at several positions.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Hannigan's reaction time has looked off for a while.

[Reds Fanatic]

This may be a tough one to win. Pirates hitting Arroyo well, and we got the B-Squad in at several positions.

And the Reds are facing the Pirates best pitcher in McDonald who has been impressive all year.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hague pops out to 2nd. 2-0 Pirates after 1.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Pirates, particularly McDonald, have been rough on the Reds. Cairo and Valdez on the same day is rough.

[Plus Plus]

Cairo and Valdez have wRC+ of 6 and 7, respectively. I really don't like seeing both of them in the lineup at the same time.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce singles to center.

[BCubb2003]

Maybe it's best to limit the lineup weakness to one game.

[BuckeyeRedleg]

That was not a wild pitch. Don't know what's up, but Hannigan's receiving has been awful, lately.

Yep and he dropped the foul tip on the 3rd strike that just cost them two runs.

With this lineup and McDonald on the hill, that may already be two runs too many.

By the way, coming in to today:

Valdez 8-41 (.195)
Harris 3-35 (.086)
Cairo 4-28 (.143)
Costanzo 1-12 (.083)

That's all whole bunch of outs from the bench this year. I'd hope AB's are kept to a minimum with this crew. Last thing I'd ever do is have two in a lineup on the same day.

Well, at least Harris is gone.

[Tom Servo]

Heisey is DatDudeDP.

[Reds Fanatic]

Heisey grounds into a 5-4-3 DP.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cairo lines out to center. 2-0 Pirates mid 2nd.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Arroyo not foolin anyone. Throwing a lot of pitches.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barajas singles to left.

[Tom Servo]

You know you're going well when you give up hits to Rod Barajas.

[Plus Plus]

Cairo looks every bit of 100 years old in fielding a grounder and it ends up being a single for Barajas.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Looking like a bullpen kind of day.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Cairo looks every bit of 100 years old in fielding a grounder and it ends up being a single for Barajas.

Ain't that the truth.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes pop out to 2nd.1 out.

[Tom Servo]

Good one, Wilson.

[Reds Fanatic]

McDonald bunts into a 2-6 FC. 2 outs.

[Plus Plus]

Valdez has the ball pop out of his hand as he gets ready to throw to first to attempt a double play; that is at least the third time that Valdez has had that happen to him this year, just off of the top of my head- in limited playing time in the field, too.

[Tom Servo]

Think we can fire the entire bench and start from scratch?

[Reds Fanatic]

Tabata walks. 1st and 2nd.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Not a fan of the bench this year. Weak stcks, weak D.

[Tom Servo]

Gonna get worse before it gets better. Yeesh.

[Reds Fanatic]

Walker just kills Reds pitching. Walker doubles to right. 3-0 Pirates.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Calling Alfredo Simon.

[Tom Servo]

Cards are up 5-0 on the Braves, btw.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Arroyo high with everything.

[Tom Servo]

McCutchen fouled one off Hanigan's bare hand. Ouch.

[Reds Fanatic]

McCutchen pops out to 2nd. 3-0 Pirates after 2.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan doubles to left center.

[Tom Servo]

Hanigan the Manigan unaffected by the pain in his hand.

[JaxRed]

Tabata probably lost the Gold Glove on that play :D

[Reds Fanatic]

Wow. A 4 pitch walk to Arroyo

[Tom Servo]

Alright, gotta get some runs here.

[Tom Servo]

Well that was stupid.

[Reds Fanatic]

Awful bunt attempt. I have watched Stubbs since he started in Dayton and he is a horrible bunter. 1-5 FC.

[RedsManRick]

Why do announcers (and managers) act like getting a bunt down should be a sure thing? Sure, it's a lot easier than getting a hit, but is there anybody who's a lock to get a bunt down? It just seems like people take it for granted and act shocked (and morally outraged) when it doesn't work out.

To be fair though, having 2 runers in scoring position would have been huge with Valdez coming up.....

[oneupper]

Awful bunt attempt. I have watched Stubbs since he started in Dayton and he is a horrible bunter. 1-5 FC.

Slow runner on second, bad bunter at the plate who shouldn't be leading off in the first place.

[The Operator]

Why were they bunting down 3 runs in the 3rd inning anyway? And with a sloooow lead runner?

[JaxRed]

Well that was stupid.

You had to get a man in scoring position. Oh wait... he already was.....

[Tom Servo]

I don't understand having Stubbs bunt there at all. Worst case scenario is he strikes out, because he can beat out a DP. And so that Valdez could hit?

[membengal]

Well that was stupid.

Nothing like breaking a sequence where pitcher can't find the plate by bunting and giving away an out to help the pitcher out.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Valdez in the 2 hole is brutal.

[RedsManRick]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ondAXNjvH2c/TWUguXyYQKI/AAAAAAAAGqU/kdHrN7Fqt2M/s1600/DustysDugoutDice.jpg

[Reds Fanatic]

Valdez strikes out looking.

[Plus Plus]

"Thunder" Valdez shockingly strikes out.

[VottoFan54]

Our top two hitters are absolutely worthless today.

[Chip R]

At least he didn't hit into a double play.

[Reds Fanatic]

Up to Votto to bail Dusty out from the combination of that bunt attempt and the decision to hit Valdez 2nd.

[The Operator]

Valdez in the 2 hole is brutal.SS bats second.

[Ron Madden]

I'd rather have Paul Janish on the bench than Valdez.

[membengal]

Valdez in the 2 hole is brutal.

I know people get tired of the SS-bats-second-dude joke, but, it works because it is true.

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto flies out to center. 3-0 Pirates mid 3rd.

[Tom Servo]

Terrible.

[corkedbat]

It's bad enough the Reds insist on carrying no-hit reserve SSs pn the roster, but sticking them in the two-hole when they do play is beyond explanation.

[Plus Plus]

I'd rather have Paul Janish on the bench than Valdez.

I'd rather have a 24 man roster than Valdez.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Up to Votto to bail Dusty out from the combination of that bunt attempt and the decision to hit Valdez 2nd.

That was just awful.

[oneupper]

A little complacency here. Given a winning streak the feeling is "we can play whomever and line 'em up however and still win". Doesn't work like that.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Valdez is the epitome of the ol' Chico Ruiz quote. "Bench me or trade me."

[Plus Plus]

It's bad enough the Reds insist on carrying no-hit reserve SSs pn the roster, but sticking them in the two-hole when they do play is beyond explanation.

This.

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Updated:

Valdez 8-43 (.186)
Harris 3-35 (.086)
Cairo 4-29 (.138)
Costanzo 1-12 (.083)

That's a .134 average in 119 AB's. A simply pitiful bench.

[WildcatFan]

Think we can fire the entire bench and start from scratch?

I dunno, I think Cozart and Frazier have potential.

[15fan]

Another year, another misguided soul wearing #15 for the Reds.

[Reds Fanatic]

Arroyo continues to get pounded today. Alvarez doubles to right. They can't afford to give up more runs against McDonald

[RollyInRaleigh]

I dunno, I think Cozart and Frazier have potential.

They should be starting now.

[Reds Fanatic]

Jones flies out to right.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Another year, another misguided soul wearing #15 for the Reds.

Valdez has a balsa bat. Ahh, for the ol' black Betsy. George could swing it!

[BuckeyeRedleg]

They should be starting now.

Zero reason Frazier should be sitting today.

I understand giving Cozart a rest occasionally, but Frazier is playing well and has not played a whole heckuva lot.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hague flies out to right.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Zero reason Frazier should be sitting today.

I understand giving Cozart a rest occasionally, but Frazier is playing well and has not played a whole heckuva lot.

Cozart getting a lot of days off. Agree on Frazier. Play 'em.

[WildcatFan]

They should be starting now.

Misguided attempt at levity.

[mbgrayson]

Why do announcers (and managers) act like getting a bunt down should be a sure thing? Sure, it's a lot easier than getting a hit, but is there anybody who's a lock to get a bunt down? It just seems like people take it for granted and act shocked (and morally outraged) when it doesn't work out.


I get mad at the whole idea of bunting after Arroyo walked on 4 pitches, and Stubbs took the first two for balls. He was going to get something decent to hit, and we wasted an out.... I blame Dusty, since if he doesn't know that Stubbs isn't a great bunter by now, he must be asleep. Even if it works, its not a great move.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barajas singles to right. 4-0 Pirates.

[The Operator]

This game is getting out of hand.

Odd, I've never seen a "get away" lineup on the opening game of a series, but this seems like one.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Reds just punted this game. What a shame.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes lines out to 3rd. 4-0 Pirates after 3.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Reds just punted this game. What a shame.

Certainly feels that way. Something to be said for trying to win game 1 of a road series.

[Tom Servo]

Game is not over yet, but it is starting to get less likely we make a game of it.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips grounds out to short.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce flies out to left.

[Reds Fanatic]

Heisey grounds out just in front of the plate. 4-0 Pirates mid 4th.

[Tom Servo]

Easy inning for old McDonald.

[Reds Fanatic]

McDonald strikes out looking.

[Reds Fanatic]

Tabata singles to center.

[Tom Servo]

Walker finally retired.

[Reds Fanatic]

Walker flies out to the track in right.

[mbgrayson]

FWIW, Arroyo is getting squeezed badly today. I have seen half a dozen strikes called balls with him on the mound, while McDonald has gotten strike calls on balls that GameDay shows being out of the zone. (First pitch to Tabata was actually a strike.)

[Reds Fanatic]

McCutchen flies out to center. 4-0 Pirates after 4.

[mbgrayson]

I don't like breaking up the game by having a ceremony in the middle of the half inning...

[Reds Fanatic]

Cairo lines a single to left.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan singles to center. 1st and 2nd.

[Tom Servo]

Hanigan looking good at the dish today.

[Reds Fanatic]

Costanzo pinch hitting. Unbelievable. Why not use Cozart or Frazier in a big scoring chance.

[mbgrayson]

Arroyo done, Costanzo PHing.

[mbgrayson]

Costanzo pinch hitting. Unbelievable. Why not use Cozart or Frazier in a big scoring chance.

They don't have a .083 BA, like Mike C. does....

[Blitz Dorsey]

Has Dusty ever heard of giving the take sign? Amazing. First Stubbs bunting on 2-0 after McDonald had just walked Arroyo on four pitches, and now Costanzo.

[Kc61]

This is the kind of inning that plagues the Reds in bigger stadiums. Two lead off singles.

Goal here is not to hit a 358 foot GABP right field shot. Key is a series of consecutive hits and walks.

Maybe this time.

[VR]

Arroyo done, Costanzo PHing.

Interesting.....bullpen must be feeling fresh. An amazing attribute to the starting pitching over the last 17 consecutive days.

[Blitz Dorsey]

McDonald is TRYING to walk batters ... but the Reds won't oblige. Give them the take sign Dusty!

[Reds Fanatic]

Costanzo pops out to short.

[Crumbley]

I've seen enough Costanzo.

[Tom Servo]

McDonald is TRYING to walk batters ... but the Reds won't oblige. Give them the take sign Dusty!
Costanzo only swung at one outside the zone.

[VR]

I've seen enough Costanzo.

Serenity now. Please.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Costanzo only swung at one outside the zone.

False. Re-wind it. Swung at one that was way high and one that was way low.

[Reds Fanatic]

It is actually amazing this team is in first with a bench this bad.

[TOBTTReds]

I hope this "be aggressive" phases out soon.

[Reds Fanatic]

Stubbs strikes out looking.

[TOBTTReds]

Just as I say that Stubbs takes a heater down the middle. What's going on??

[Tom Servo]

lol this is awful

[Blitz Dorsey]

Just as I say that Stubbs takes a heater down the middle. What's going on??

That fits right in. Swing at balls ... then take strikes down the middle on a 2-strike count.

[VR]

Just as I say that Stubbs takes a heater down the middle. What's going on??

Unfortunately it's a pretty common occurrence for him. Swing at marginal pitches, watch the cheese down broadway.

[Reds Fanatic]

Valdez with a weak grounder to 1st. 4-0 Pirates mid 5th.

[mbgrayson]

This is a game that I blame the lack of production on Dusty. TERRIBLE line-up, TERRIBLE, PH decision, just TERRIBLE!

[corkedbat]

Unreal

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Valdez needs to be the next to join Willie in DFA land.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Unfortunately it's a pretty common occurrence for him. Swing at marginal pitches, watch the cheese down broadway.

This is very true. Stubbs has trouble picking up the ball IMO. The tools are there (he has a nice swing, good mechanics) but the pitch recognition is usually not.

[mbgrayson]

Valdez needs to be the next to join Willie in DFA land.
Yes, and Costanzo too....

[Reds Fanatic]

Valdez needs to be the next to join Willie in DFA land.

Costanzo needs to go with him.

[TOBTTReds]

Enjoy your holiday folks. I'm going outside and DVR'ing the rest. This is a waste of time. Pathetic game plan from some of our hitters.

[Reds Fanatic]

Simon in to pitch

[Blitz Dorsey]

This is a game that I blame the lack of production on Dusty. TERRIBLE line-up, TERRIBLE, PH decision, just TERRIBLE!

It's easy to say this now, but I was thinking the same thing when I heard the lineup today. Has Dusty STILL not learned that Stubbs is uncomfortable batting leadoff? Stubbs should never bat leadoff. Let Valdez bat leadoff and keeps Stubbs in the 2 hole. Just when I'm starting to think I like Dusty, he does questionable stuff. His lineup construction has always been my biggest gripe about him. Case-in-point, he used to bat Paul Janish in the 2-hole all the time. That drove me crazy. Janish was the worst hitter on the roster, but Dusty time and time again batted him second.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

The fools gold of GABP is gone. This is the reds offense minus the HRs.

[Tom Servo]

mmmm snow cones

[Reds Fanatic]

Nice sno-cone catch by Stubbs on the track in center.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Wow, that was realllllly close. Nice catch. Hopefully it stands.

[Reds Fanatic]

It actually looked like he trapped the ball against the wall in center.

[Blitz Dorsey]

It actually looked like he trapped the ball against the wall in center.

Brantley is going off right now "They shouldn't even be discussing this!"

Actually, they should. It's pretty close.

[oneupper]

Brantley is going off right now "They shouldn't even be discussing this!"

Actually, they should. It's pretty close.

Is that a reviewable play?

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Update:

Valdez 8-44 (.182)
Harris 3-35 (.086)
Cairo 5-30 (.167)
Costanzo 1-13 (.077)

That's now a .140 average in 121 AB's from this group. 1 for 6 (.167) today so they have brought the average up.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Wow, that is as close at it gets. Even in super slow-mo it's hard to tell for sure one way or the other.

Oh well, we can use a break in this game. Nice catch, Drew.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Is that a reviewable play?

Depends on your definition of "reviewable." If one of the umps was adamant that the ball was trapped against the wall, then they would overturn the call. But they wouldn't go in the clubhouse to actually have a video review of the play like they would a close HR call.

[corkedbat]

Never thought I' say it, but I miss Janish. I gues they're grooming Bell down in L'Ville. Well,I ready to give him a shot. I'm sorry, but I'm just done with Dusty.

[Reds Fanatic]

Jones strikes out looking.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Man, I'm surprised Stubbs didn't catch that. He was there in time. Just off his glove for a double.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hague doubles to center. Stubbs made a diving try but could not get it.

[Kc61]

The fools gold of GABP is gone. This is the reds offense minus the HRs.

That was the point of my earlier post.

I don't think the offense is typically this bad, and that inning had Costanzo and Valdez, but this team has trouble getting three, four, and five baserunners in an inning.

They score on homers and other long hits, not rallies. That is why they need a couple more high OBP hitters.

[Tom Servo]

Never thought I' say it, but I miss Janish. I gues they're grooming Bell down in L'Ville. Well,I ready to give him a shot. I'm sorry, but I'm just done with Dusty.
Jeez, guess an 8-1 homestand doesn't buy much security on Redszone.

[Blitz Dorsey]

That was the point of my earlier post.

I don't think the offense is typically this bad, and that inning had Costanzo and Valdez, but this team has trouble getting three, four, and five baserunners in an inning.

They score on homers and other long hits, not rallies. That is why they need a couple more high OBP hitters.

Also, why is Dusty too proud to give the take sign when McDonald is out there walking the pitcher on four pitches? No way Stubbs should have been swinging or bunting until he got a strike after Arroyo walked. I don't get it. And then Costanzo DEFINITELY should have been given the take sign when he was up in the count 2-0.

[Tom Servo]

The fools gold of GABP is gone. This is the reds offense minus the HRs.
Where were you in the last week or so, by the way? Guess it shouldn't be too surprising that you show up today.

[VR]

Jeez, guess an 8-1 homestand doesn't buy much security on Redszone.

You've been around long enough to know how this works Tom. :)

[Blitz Dorsey]

The great homestand (and winning a series at a place called Yankee Stadium) definitely gives the Reds a lot of room for error these next couple weeks. However, games like today are still frustrating. Feels like we're giving away opportunities. I'm usually a "tip your cap to the other team" kind of guy, but it doesn't really feel like the Pirates are playing well. It feels like the Reds aren't playing well in the least. At least not yet.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barajas walks

[RollyInRaleigh]

Still a lot of reaching and not a lot of blocking/movement by Hannigan. I know it's hot but a catcher has to block the ball.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes grounds out to 2nd. 4-0 Pirates after 5.

[mbgrayson]

Jeez, guess an 8-1 homestand doesn't buy much security on Redszone.

It was a 6-1 homestand, actually, although they won the last two at Yankee Stadium too.

BTW, we ARE allowed to complain when Dusty or the players do dumb things. This team could be much better....

[Kc61]

Never thought I' say it, but I miss Janish. I gues they're grooming Bell down in L'Ville. Well,I ready to give him a shot. I'm sorry, but I'm just done with Dusty.

I don't see how Dusty is to blame for that inning.

Valdez is on the team, that is probably Walt's decision. If he hits eighth in the order, maybe the threat doesn't ever happen that inning.

Costanzo is also probably Walt's decision. Fifth inning, not terrible to use him there.

The personnel on offense could be better, that is the issue.

[corkedbat]

Update:

Valdez 8-44 (.182)
Harris 3-35 (.086)
Cairo 5-30 (.167)
Costanzo 1-13 (.077)

That's now a .140 average in 121 AB's from this group. 1 for 6 (.167) today so they have brought the average up.

I've said for two years now that there Reds bench is far too anemic - especially for a roster that carries 12 pitchers. Right now, my third pinch-hitting choice on this roster (after whoever isn't playing between Ludwick/Heisey and Hanigan/Mesaraco) would be Mike Leake on the days he isn't pitching - he might even be second because you're not likely to burn your backup catcher very early in a game.

[Tom Servo]

It was a 6-1 homestand, actually, although they won the last two at Yankee Stadium too.

BTW, we ARE allowed to complain when Dusty or the players do dumb things. This team could be much better....
You are correct, my mistake.


And yes, I agree that Dusty does dumb things and I myself have 'called him out' on it. But again I feel like people are using 5 innings of this one game as a barometer for the team overall, which is ridiculous.

[Kc61]

The great homestand (and winning a series at a place called Yankee Stadium) definitely gives the Reds a lot of room for error these next couple weeks. However, games like today are still frustrating. Feels like we're giving away opportunities. I'm usually a "tip your cap to the other team" kind of guy, but it doesn't really feel like the Pirates are playing well. It feels like the Reds aren't playing well in the least. At least not yet.

Pirates are a team that pitches well. They cannot hit.

If you want to blame somebody today, it is Arroyo.

[VottoFan54]

Pirates are a team that pitches well. The cannot hit.

If you want to blame somebody today, it is Arroyo.

I have never seen a team win a game without scoring a run.

[Tom Servo]

Damn, thought Votto had that one. :(

[Reds Fanatic]

Votto flies out to the track in right.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips grounds out.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce grounds out to 1st. 4-0 Pirates mid 6th.

[Tom Servo]

Funny thing is outside of Stubbs/Valdez, almost everyone else in the lineup is hitting the ball hard and just not getting any breaks.

[VR]

Funny thing is outside of Stubbs/Valdez, almost everyone else in the lineup is hitting the ball hard and just not getting any breaks.

Reds get three more hacks at it.....let's hope those start falling, would be a good game to come back and win.

[Reds Fanatic]

McDonald strikes out looking.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Reds now have to figure out a way to beat Morton tomorrow. I know they beat him earlier this month, but he has owned this reds offense. Winning streaks vs the braves and Yankees are useless if you follow them up with losing streaks vs the likes of the pirates.

[Reds Fanatic]

Tabata grounds out to 2nd.

[mbgrayson]

Reds get three more hacks at it.....let's hope those start falling, would be a good game to come back and win.

And we have Ludwick, Mesoraco, Frazier and Cozart available for double-switches....

[Kc61]

I have never seen a team win a game without scoring a run.

Yes. But against good pitching falling behind by four runs isn't necessarily the best strategy.

[Reds Fanatic]

Walker strikes out swinging. 3 Ks for Simon. 4-0 Pirates after 6.

[Tom Servo]

Nice inning by Simon there.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Funny thing is outside of Stubbs/Valdez, almost everyone else in the lineup is hitting the ball hard and just not getting any breaks.

Yep. Bruce has stung the ball a few times. Several others too.

I hadn't commented on it yet, but let me throw my hat in the ring as one who doesn't quite understand this whole philosophy of wanting to have Cairo, Costanzo & Valdez "get it going" instead of playing the guy who are going to get us there (Frazier, Cozart). Today's lineup is beyond a "head scratcher".

[Blitz Dorsey]

Brantley was just talking about how "When a pitcher starts to lose it, it's OK to let him lose it. It's all right to take a walk every once in a while."

[_Sir_Charles_]

The two new guys have looked very good thus far this year (Simon & Hoover). 2 solid pickups there it seems.

[Blitz Dorsey]

The two new guys have looked very good thus far this year (Simon & Hoover). 2 solid pickups there it seems.

Absolutely. The entire bullpen is just lights-out good.

[Reds Fanatic]

Heisey grounds out to the pitcher

[Kc61]

Yep. Bruce has stung the ball a few times. Several others too.

I hadn't commented on it yet, but let me throw my hat in the ring as one who doesn't quite understand this whole philosophy of wanting to have Cairo, Costanzo & Valdez "get it going" instead of playing the guy who are going to get us there (Frazier, Cozart). Today's lineup is beyond a "head scratcher".

I can understand Cairo today. He can hit, he needs a chance to play. Frazier is hardly a mainstay.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cairo flies out to right. 2 outs.

[Blitz Dorsey]

Cowboy is on point today. Now he's talking about how Hanigan should be batting second in front of Votto.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hanigan flies out to right. 4-0 Pirates mid 7th.

[mbgrayson]

Cowboy is on point today. Now he's talking about how Hanigan should be batting second in front of Votto.

This. :thumbup:

[mbgrayson]

I expect a double-switch, Frazier in at 3rd batting 9th, and Lecure for Simon, batting 7th.

[corkedbat]

Today's game isn't THE reason I'd like to see a switch in manager's, it just epitomizes it. In my mind, lineup constriction and bullpen usage are the two areas that a manager really influenzes a game on a daiy basis. I'm not really critical of Dusty when it comes to the bullpen, but when it comes to lineup construction, I couldn't detest Dusty's more. Batting guys like Valdez a the top of the lineup is indefensible.

Scoring runs by means of methods other than a home run is horrible for this team. Part of that is on the players, but Dusty fails miserably when it comes to what he can control - putting players in a postion to succeed. batting Hannigan who always seems to have a high OBP (currently around .375) 8th, while batting a nothing-stick like Valdez second is unforgiveable. Now I'm not saying that hitting Hannigan 2nd would make a bit of dirrerence today. Over the course of a month (much less a season) though it would definitely lead to more runs and likely more wins.

Not saying its all Dusty by any means. The organization does not value OBP or OPS and does not value offensive potential on the corners. It also does not value production off the bench - that is mainly on Walt.

[757690]

Reds now have to figure out a way to beat Morton tomorrow. I know they beat him earlier this month, but he has owned this reds offense. Winning streaks vs the braves and Yankees are useless if you follow them up with losing streaks vs the likes of the pirates.

Yep. Those wins against the Yankees and Braves actually get erased and replaced with losses with every loss to the Pirates. Little known rule ;)

[mbgrayson]

I expect a double-switch, Frazier in at 3rd batting 9th, and Lecure for Simon, batting 7th.

One more inning for Simon, switch maybe next inning.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

I hope walt doesn't wait til late July to make some upgrades. This bench isn't MLB-caliber and there are too many holes in the lineup. There are trades to be made this time of year - the reds got neon deion around this time of year.

These games that we're seeing today aren't acceptable.

[Reds Fanatic]

McCutchen singels to right.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I can understand Cairo today. He can hit, he needs a chance to play. Frazier is hardly a mainstay.

I'm not so sure. Cairo is 38 years old now. He's looked VERY slow in the field and his bat has looked very slow too. We might've gotten his last 2 solid part-time seasons. And Frazier...I firmly think he's our 3rd baseman for the future. His defense will only improve. His bat is more than good enough. He needs reps (as does Cozart).

[mbgrayson]

Simon did great today, and kept us close enough to have a little hope.

[_Sir_Charles_]

3 great innings from Simon. :clap: :clap:

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Today's game isn't THE reason I'd like to see a switch in manager's, it just epitomizes it. In my mind, lineup constriction and bullpen usage are the two areas that a manager really influenzes a game on a daiy basis. I'm not really critical of Dusty when it comes to the bullpen, but when it comes to lineup construction, I couldn't detest Dusty's more. Batting guys like Valdez a the top of the lineup is indefensible.

Scoring runs by means of methods other than a home run is horrible for this team. Part of that is on the players, but Dusty fails miserably when it comes to what he can control - putting players in a postion to succeed. batting Hannigan who always seems to have a high OBP (currently around .375) 8th, while batting a nothing-stick like Valdez second is unforgiveable. Now I'm not saying that hitting Hannigan 2nd would make a bit of dirrerence today. Over the course of a month (much less a season) though it would definitely lead to more runs and likely more wins.

Not saying its all Dusty by any means. The organization does not value OBP or OPS and does not value offensive potential on the corners. It also does not value production off the bench - that is mainly on Walt.

Best post in this thread. I agree with everything you have here.

[VR]

Simon did great today, and kept us close enough to have a little hope.

/like

[Tom Servo]

Simon did great today, and kept us close enough to have a little hope.
Indeed. And hopefully Walt can soon find the hitting equivalent of Simon and Hoover.

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart pinch hitting

[_Sir_Charles_]

That ballgirl down there has made some great plays. (and has some great legs too)

[Reds Fanatic]

Cozart strikes out swinging.

[VR]

McDonald's strategy today seems to be to get to 2-0...and then get working. Stunning to see only 1 walk.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Just not our game. Great snag in left.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hernandez who just came in makes a diving catch to rob Stubbs.

[Kc61]

I'm not so sure. Cairo is 38 years old now. He's looked VERY slow in the field and his bat has looked very slow too. We might've gotten his last 2 solid part-time seasons. And Frazier...I firmly think he's our 3rd baseman for the future. His defense will only improve. His bat is more than good enough. He needs reps (as does Cozart).

I agree that Cairo may be done. But he has a track record of hitting, if he is on the team he needs an occasional chance.

As for Frazier, I am more skeptical than you. Has some good attributes, power, hits lefties well. Beyond that? We will see.

[Reds Fanatic]

100 pitches for McDonald.

[Reds Fanatic]

Valdez grounds out to short. 4-0 Pirates mid 8th.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Cy McDonald

[mbgrayson]

Valdez grounds out to short. 4-0 Pirates mid 8th.

So Valdez slaps a low outside pitch to short, and ends up going 0 for 4, with 2 Ks, and two ground-outs. Impressive....

[Kc61]

McDonald's strategy today seems to be to get to 2-0...and then get working. Stunning to see only 1 walk.

The Reds, other than Votto, don't walk much.

[Reds Fanatic]

Hoover in to pitch, Cozart stays in at short.

[Reds Fanatic]

Another good appearance by Simon: 3IP, 2H, 0ER, 1BB, 3K

[Reds Fanatic]

Hague strikes out looking.

[corkedbat]

oday's game isn't THE reason I'd like to see a switch in manager's, it just epitomizes it. In my mind, lineup constriction and bullpen usage are the two areas that a manager really influenzes a game on a daiy basis. I'm not really critical of Dusty when it comes to the bullpen, but when it comes to lineup construction, I couldn't detest Dusty's more. Batting guys like Valdez a the top of the lineup is indefensible.

Scoring runs by means of methods other than a home run is horrible for this team. Part of that is on the players, but Dusty fails miserably when it comes to what he can control - putting players in a postion to succeed. batting Hannigan who always seems to have a high OBP (currently around .375) 8th, while batting a nothing-stick like Valdez second is unforgiveable. Now I'm not saying that hitting Hannigan 2nd would make a bit of dirrerence today. Over the course of a month (much less a season) though it would definitely lead to more runs and likely more wins.

Not saying its all Dusty by any means. The organization does not value OBP or OPS and does not value offensive potential on the corners. It also does not value production off the bench - that is mainly on Walt.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Cy McDonald

Not entirely the Reds fault. This guy has been very good all season long.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barajas flies out to left.

[mbgrayson]

The ump today is terrible. Strike three to Hague was in the exact same place as ball two. (They were both strikes....)

[Kc61]

Another good appearance by Simon: 3IP, 2H, 0ER, 1BB, 3K

If Masset and Bray get healthy, I don't see a spot for them in this pen. Maybe Lecure could be traded. Pen is rock solid.

[Reds Fanatic]

Barmes pops out to 1st. 4-0 Pirates after 8.

[757690]

Thankfully there are games like today. Otherwise Redszone's whiners and complainers would get really bored ;)

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Kelch ran through the local teams that made the NCAA baseball tournament but I missed when he started. Did he mention Dayton getting in vs Texas A&M?

[mbgrayson]

Thankfully there are games like today. Otherwise Redszone's whiners and complainers would get really bored ;)
And trollers like you too....;)

[Reds Fanatic]

Tony Watson in to pitch, McGehee in to play 1st

[VottoFan54]

Nice AB from Joey.

[Reds Fanatic]

Leadoff walk to Votto.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Just look to get on base boys. Don't look for the longball!!!!

[Reds Fanatic]

I am really surprised the Pirates took McDonald out. He had just hit 100 pitches and had retired 12 in a row.

[Reds Fanatic]

Phillips fouls out to 1st.

[Reds Fanatic]

Bruce strikes out swinging.

[Reds Fanatic]

Heisey singles to right. 4-1 Pirates.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Hi-C comes through. Shut out gone.

[VottoFan54]

Nice to see them avoid the shutout.

[Reds Fanatic]

Pitching change

[_Sir_Charles_]

Gotta get that save oppo. LOL.

Whoever wrote the "MLB Mangerial.101 playbook" needs to be killed.

[Reds Fanatic]

Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan in to pitch

[Reds Fanatic]

Cairo flies out to center. Reds lose 4-1.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Ballgame. Simply put, a VERY well pitched ballgame from the Buccos.

[Kc61]

Gotta get that save oppo. LOL.

Whoever wrote the "MLB Mangerial.101 playbook" needs to be killed.

This was a lefty-righty move I expect. The lefty was in mostly for Votto and Bruce.
Lefty couldn't close the door. Reds with no more lefty bats so bring in righty closer to nail it down.