8/29/2012 Reds at D'Backs

[cumberlandreds]

No Ludwick or Hanigan today. I expected both to be rested today.

1. Zack Cozart (R) SS (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=cozarza01&year=Career&t=b)
2. Drew Stubbs (R) CF (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=stubbdr01&year=Career&t=b)
3. Brandon Phillips (R) 2B (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=phillbr01&year=Career&t=b)
4. Jay Bruce (L) RF (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=bruceja01&year=Career&t=b)
5. Todd Frazier (R) 3B (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=frazito01&year=Career&t=b)
6. Chris Heisey (R) LF (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=heisech01&year=Career&t=b)
7. Miguel Cairo (R) 1B (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=cairomi01&year=Career&t=b)
8. Dioner Navarro (S) C (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=navardi01&year=Career&t=b)
9. Mat Latos (R) P (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=latosma01&year=Career&t=b)

[cumberlandreds]

I don't think the Reds are televising today. FSN Arizona is, so you can watch it through them if you have MLBTV or the EI package.

[Tom Servo]

Cozart and Stubbs batting 1 and 2 is like the nightmare you never wake up from.

[757690]

Cozart and Stubbs batting 1 and 2 is like the nightmare you never wake up from.

The nightmare of the best record in baseball :cool:

[mdccclxix]

c'mon stubbs, feast on some lhp while you can

[mdccclxix]

BP due for a power surge soon, imo

[RedsMan3203]

I remember in years past the Reds would struggle to get to 79 wins... Let alone have it done by the end of August!

GO REDS!

[traderumor]

The nightmare of the best record in baseball... :cool:
...despite the lack of production at the top of the order. Phillips now feeling Votto's pain with his bases empty two baggers, needing a two out hit from the cleanup hitter.

[VR]

Would like to see Latos bounce back in a big way today. Need to get him dialed for the playoffs.

[Tom Servo]

6. Chris Heisey (R) LF (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.cgi?id=heisech01&year=Career&t=b)

http://i.imgur.com/a5wuU.jpg

[mbgrayson]

Cozart and Stubbs batting 1 and 2 is like the nightmare you never wake up from.

I certainly understand Dusty getting tired of having his lineups second guessed.
However, there is considerable research to back that putting high OBP guys at the top of the lineup yields the best results. ( See http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by (http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by))
While I fully realize the Reds have the best win-loss record in MLB at the moment, it could be even better with better lineups. I say why not try it, and see what happens.

My general lineup would be:
1. Phillips
2. Hanigan
3. Votto/Frazier (1B)
4. Bruce
5. Ludwick/Frazier (LF)
6. Rolen
7. Cozart
8. Stubbs
9. Pitcher

You can call me a ‘glass half empty’ guy, but I am actaully a perfectionist who always strives for the best my team can do. Nothing wrong with that, and in the playoffs it may make the difference between winning or losing.

[traderumor]

I certainly understand Dusty getting tired of having his lineups second guessed.
However, there is considerable research to back that putting high OBP guys at the top of the lineup yields the best results. ( See http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by (http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by))
While I fully realize the Reds have the best win-loss record in MLB at the moment, it could be even better with better lineups. I say why not try it, and see what happens.

My general lineup would be:
1. Phillips
2. Hanigan
3. Votto/Frazier (1B)
4. Bruce
5. Ludwick/Frazier (LF)
6. Rolen
7. Cozart
8. Stubbs
9. Pitcher

You can call me a ‘glass half empty’ guy, but I am actaully a perfectionist who always strives for the best my team can do. Nothing wrong with that, and in the playoffs it may make the difference between winning or losing.Dusty doesn't make the lineup you would make, so he's careless?

[Gizmo]

10 pitches, 2ks and a popout by Cozart is our first inning.

[Gizmo]

Dback announcers also talking about how inept our top 2 hitters have been.

[Tom Servo]

I certainly understand Dusty getting tired of having his lineups second guessed.
However, there is considerable research to back that putting high OBP guys at the top of the lineup yields the best results. ( See http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by (http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/17/795946/optimizing-your-lineup-by))
While I fully realize the Reds have the best win-loss record in MLB at the moment, it could be even better with better lineups. I say why not try it, and see what happens.

My general lineup would be:
1. Phillips
2. Hanigan
3. Votto/Frazier (1B)
4. Bruce
5. Ludwick/Frazier (LF)
6. Rolen
7. Cozart
8. Stubbs
9. Pitcher

You can call me a ‘glass half empty’ guy, but I am actaully a perfectionist who always strives for the best my team can do. Nothing wrong with that, and in the playoffs it may make the difference between winning or losing.
I can understand Dusty's aversion to Hanigan #2, I really can. I would love the baby steps of just going BP #1, Cozart #2.

[Gizmo]

Young out(?) trying to stretch a single.

EDIT: yep, got him, close play

[Homer Bailey]

Very close, but looked like a good call. Young kind of missed the bag with his slide. Great throw by Bruce.

[Gizmo]

Latos going full to both batters so far, not a good sign.

Walks Hill.

[Gizmo]

Kubel 2 for 2 with 2HR off Latos so far, 2-2 count.

[Homer Bailey]

20 pitches already for Latos.

[Gizmo]

Bunch of foul balls. Needs that put away pitch.

[Gizmo]

and he doesn't get 3/3 with 3HR as he pops up to BP

[Homer Bailey]

Kubel pops out to Cozart.

[Tom Servo]

never ending inning

[Gizmo]

0-2 to 2-2 again. Latos with nearly 30 pitches to 3+ batters.

[Gizmo]

And a single makes it 1st and 3rd.

[Homer Bailey]

Latos balks in a run. Not a good start here.

[Gizmo]

1-0 as Latos balks apparently.

[Tom Servo]

yeesh

[RedsfaninMT]

Latos balks in a run. Not a good start here.

Squeezed on that first pitch, but yes, a horrible beginning to this start
.

[Brutus]

It looks like we'll be seeing Alfredo Simon today.

[Gizmo]

and a 4 pitch walk. Latos on pace to go about 2 innings in this one.

[cbowen2112]

D'Backs are in Latos' head from last start...

[cbowen2112]

Getting squeezed badly!

[Tom Servo]

Getting squeezed badly!
That's how it seems on Gameday.

[cbowen2112]

That's how it seems on Gameday.

Yeah...hitting the black, but getting no calls. Methinks it is all Navarro not knowing Latos well enough.

[reds44]

Holy overreactions in this thread, batman.

[Gizmo]

4-3 inning over. 35 pitches 1-0 Dbacks lead.

[cbowen2112]

Holy overreactions in this thread, batman.

Yes, that too. Except for the fact that the umps were apparently searching for a balk to call (maybe to meet a quota) and Latos getting squeezed. Latos has looked better, but come on people.

[Chip R]

Holy overreactions in this thread, batman.

Overreactions on RedsZone? Never!

[cbowen2112]

btw, Cairo does not look good at 1st lately. Why is he here? Give H-Rod a chance!

[cbowen2112]

Alright, good eye Bruce!

[Gizmo]

Bruce walks

[Gizmo]

Frazier fly out to center

[Tom Servo]

I don't think anyone was overreacting. It's just not the ideal beginning to your start to throw 30+ pitches and balk in a run.

[Gizmo]

Heisey strikes out.

[Gizmo]

Cairo just not fast enough on the 1-3 putout

[redssince75]

2 walks, 2 hits, a balk -- and only one opponent run? That's quite a Houdini act. He's gotta get bettah.

[Kc61]

btw, Cairo does not look good at 1st lately. Why is he here? Give H-Rod a chance!

You mean HRod with the .601 OPS at Louisville?

[Gizmo]

Well hit, but right at Bruce. Lets keep these 1 pitch ABs up!

[Gizmo]

Nieves K, 2 down. This inning looking better.

[Gizmo]

full count strikeout as opposing pitcher makes him work

[RedsfaninMT]

Navarro running like a jockey with a 500 lb. horse on his back.

[reds44]

This Navarro thing needs to stop as soon as Mes is back.

[Gizmo]

Navarro out 1-5-3

[Gizmo]

Latos breaks up the no-hitter with a single.

[Gizmo]

Cozart with a 1 pitch flyout

[Gizmo]

Arizona announcers again musing what the Reds will do in the playoffs with this poor of a leadoff tandem.

[Tom Servo]

Stubbs gonna Stubb.

[Gizmo]

Stubbs check swings at a ball on his foot and Ks

[reds44]

Stubbs has to stop playing.

[dsmith421]

Everyone walks back to the dugout shaking their head at the same speed.

[Brutus]

The Reds have to be ready to raise the white flag on this CF situation, right? Right? Surely they can't be content with this once Votto is back...

[VR]

Stubbs has to stop playing.

Or start playing.

[Gizmo]

Young grounds out

[Brutus]

Or start playing.

Well played, Mauer.

[Gizmo]

Hill grounds out.

[Homer Bailey]

Kubel K's swinging. Latos settling in.

[Gizmo]

and another K, 56 pitches through 3. 1-0 Dbacks. Let's get some offense going now that Latos has warmed up.

[Tom Servo]

It's gonna be hard for them with the Dodger$ and Giants competing and spending at a high level, but the D'Backs have some nice young talent particularly pitching wise. Miley, Corgin, and Skaggs are all rotation worthy from what I've seen and those are just the lefties. And then you have the highly rated Trevor Bauer. And Cahill and Kennedy are solid, though Kennedy's 2011 seems to be a mirage. And you have Daniel Hudson on the backburner as well. They'd be smart to move on from Chris Young and start Parra in CF, and deal a pitcher for a SS or 3B and suddenly they'd have a more legit offense to go along with their young arms.

[reds44]

Or start playing.
Touche

[Brutus]

Latos has shown to be one of those guys that when he struggles, it really piles on, but once he starts getting in a groove...

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Is anyone watching on tv anywhere? Fox sports Arizona says it's blacked out.

[Hollcat]

Stubbs with 19 K's (and counting) in his last 8 games

[Gizmo]

BP grounds out.

[Chip R]

Is anyone watching on tv anywhere? Fox sports Arizona says it's blacked out.

Probably blacked out here since one of the teams is in this market.

[Gizmo]

Bruce Ks

[RedsfaninMT]

Bruce Ks

And THAT was an UGLY swing.

[Gizmo]

and that was uglier swing by Frazier.

[Brutus]

This kid has the Reds all a flutter.

[RedsfaninMT]

and that was uglier swing by Frazier.

beat me to it. Exactly what I was going to say. Reds look asleep. Day off tomorrow badly needed, IMO.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

beat me to it. Exactly what I was going to say. Reds look asleep. Day off tomorrow badly needed, IMO.

Crowd sounds asleep. Must be the 110-degree outdoor temps.

[Gizmo]

Flyout for out 1.

[Gizmo]

Crowd sounds asleep. Must be the 110-degree outdoor temps.

or all the empty seats. Looks like a pretty small crowd.

[Gizmo]

Upton singles to break up the 8 in a row retired streak.

[Gizmo]

Nice grab by Stubbs there. That makes up for one K, I guess.

[Brutus]

Wow, I just checked Stubbs' OPS for this month. Before this game, it was .491.

Ouch. That'll leave a mark.

[Gizmo]

Wow, I just checked Stubbs' OPS for this month. Before this game, it was .491.

Ouch. That'll leave a mark.

So he's slugging at .391? I know he hasn't been on base 1 in 10 times! :lol:

[Gizmo]

Heisy just misses the catch. RBI double, 2-0 Dbacks

[kaldaniels]

Heisey needs to play more conservatively.

[Tom Servo]

I get the strategy, but man, I'd pitch to Wil Nieves anyday.

[Gizmo]

Get's the pitcher to ground out after the IW. 2-0 Dbacks after 4

Latos now at 76 pitches.

[Brutus]

So he's slugging at .391? I know he hasn't been on base 1 in 10 times! :lol:

Shockingly, .245/.246

[757690]

Heisey needs to play more conservatively.

Heisey needs to play less.

[Brutus]

Heisey needs to play less.

He needs to play more if the alternative is Stubbs going out there everyday :)

[Tom Servo]

A hit from somebody other than Latos by the Reds would be nice.

[Gizmo]

Heisey flys out on first pitch.

[757690]

He needs to play more if the alternative is Stubbs going out there everyday :)

Heisey's a below average bat and a well below average glove. Fine backup, best off the bench, but too much of a knucklehead to play too often.

[Gizmo]

Cairo flys out to left on second pitch. Really making Corbin work today...

[Tom Servo]

Heisey flys out on first pitch.
http://i.imgur.com/a5wuU.jpg

[Gizmo]

Navarro gives it one more pitch, but puts less behind it keeping it in the infield. 6 pitch inning.

[RedsfaninMT]

This is a putrid performance.

[Tom Servo]

I know he hasn't pitched great today but I feel bad for Latos. He deserves a better offense than this.

[Gizmo]

I know he hasn't pitched great today but I feel bad for Latos. He deserves a better offense than this.

This is the same guy that earlier in the season had something like a 6 run lead he blew? What goes around comes around I suppose.

[Gizmo]

Young grounds out.

[Tom Servo]

This is the same guy that earlier in the season had something like a 6 run lead he blew? What goes around comes around I suppose.
True. But the offense today seems like they're barely trying. Latos certainly wasn't half-assing it against the Cardinals, they can just flat out hit.


Hopefully the off day tomorrow helps everybody.

[VR]

Offense had 6 very flat innings yesterday too. They just grouped them together today.

Offensive explosion coming up for the Rojo's.

[Chip R]

Sounds like they have tomorrow's day off in their minds and want to get out of there ASAP.

[Gizmo]

Hill strikes out.

[Brutus]

Heisey's a below average bat and a well below average glove. Fine backup, best off the bench, but too much of a knucklehead to play too often.

I know your thoughts on defensive metrics, but I'll make this comment anyhow knowing the response: statistically speaking, he's not a below-average glove at all.

Still, if Heisey is a below average bat, then what is Stubbs? He's got a .295 wOBA this year. At this pace, he'll be getting into Wily Taveras territory if he doesn't snap out of it soon.

[Gizmo]

Latos gets Kubel swinging.

Halfway through we're still only down 2. Gotta start getting something going.

[Gizmo]

Latos batting with 95 pitches, but then again he does have only hit so far.

400 foot flyout to center.

[RedsfaninMT]

And tagged that one. Seems to be the only Red capable of hitting the ball today.

[BuckeyeRedleg]

I know he hasn't pitched great today but I feel bad for Latos. He deserves a better offense than this.

His last two starts, Latos was unable to protect 4-1 leads.

Maybe he'll pitch better when they don't score early.

[Gizmo]

Cozart with infield hit.

[VR]

Run into one Stubby

[Tom Servo]

His last two starts, Latos was unable to protect 4-1 leads.

Maybe he'll pitches better when they don't score early.
Well like I said before, I don't mean to say he wouldn't deserve the loss, but he does deserve to have SOME signs of life.

[Gizmo]

Cozart takes 3rd when he should have been thrown out at second. Horrible throw

[Gizmo]

Stubbs needs to make contact.

[Gizmo]

And we all saw that coming.

[Tom Servo]

lol

[dsmith421]

What an absolute joke.

[Gizmo]

BP grounds out. Would be 2-1 if Stubbs could do that much.

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Has Stubbs made any adjustments in 3 years? His numbers have gone down every year since 2009 and he's very close to Corey Patterson/Wily Taveras land.

Maybe he should go by Drew Stubborn. Seriously, choke up and learn to slap the ball around (and bunt)......Pokey.

[Tom Servo]

fail.

[RedsfaninMT]

Has Stubbs made any adjustments in 3 years? His numbers have gone down every year since 2009 and he's very close to Corey Patterson/Wily Taveras land.

Maybe he should go by Drew Stubborn. Seriously, choke up and learn to slap the ball around (and bunt)......Pokey.

But power is a big part of his game. You can't expect him to give that up! Remember those infamous words this spring?

[BuckeyeRedleg]

Billy Hamilton in CF, right now, would be better than Stubby. I have no doubt about that.

[dsmith421]

Billy Hamilton in CF, right now, would be better than Stubby. I have no doubt about that.

Alexander Hamilton in CF, right now, would be better than Stubbs.

[Gizmo]

Gotta get dinner started, someone else will have to pbp it along.

[Brutus]

Stubbs is up to 41 Ks this month if you're scoring at home. That's just shy of 40% strikeout rate.

[Vottomatic]

I don't think they could get a single A pitcher with an e.r.a. of 5.00 for Stubbs in trade right now.

[CTA513]

1-2-3 6th inning for Latos and hes now at 99 pitches

[VR]

Give him 7

[Homer Bailey]

Frazier doubles to left.

[Tadasimha]

There we go!

[Vottomatic]

Hi-C!!!!!!

[Gizmo]

Hoover warming as Heisey ties it up!

:jump:

[WVPacman]

Seriously how many more chances does Stubbs get?This is rediculous!!

[Tom Servo]

He loves to swinga! :jump:

[Homer Bailey]

Heisey!

[Brutus]

Way to go, Heisey.

[Tadasimha]

Seriously how many more chances does Stubbs get?This is rediculous!!

No, ridiculous. :D

[757690]

Like I said, Heisey needs to play less ;)

[WVPacman]

Hopfully this will get the ball rolling and end this series in style.

[fearofpopvol1]

Heisey really should get more playing time in CF.

[Vottomatic]

NAVARRO!!!!!

[fearofpopvol1]

Navaro!!!!!

[Gizmo]

Navarro!!! :jump:

[Tom Servo]

Dioner! :jump:

[Brutus]

Wonders never cease.

[Homer Bailey]

WHOAAA!!

[WVPacman]

No, ridiculous. :D

I can spell,I just can't type!! :D

[Tadasimha]

:lol:

Wheels came off quickly for Corbin

[WVPacman]

what happened another homer?

[Tadasimha]

I can spell,I just can't type!! :D

:laugh:

I have that same problem!

[Brutus]

what happened another homer?

Latos singled off Corbin.

[Homer Bailey]

Elmore lines out to right. One down.

[WVRedsFan]

Nice 7th inning for the Reds.

[VR]

This would be a great win for Latos and the Reds. Hopefully he can grind it out here in the 7th and pass it on to Hoover and Chappy.

[Homer Bailey]

Nieves singles.

[VR]

Strikes out Johnson, #7.
2 down.

[Brutus]

What a strong finish for Latos. Amazing job the last three innings.

[Tom Servo]

Young grounds out to third.

3-2 Reds after 7.

[WVRedsFan]

Must have been a good play by Todd

[VR]

What a strong finish for Latos. Amazing job the last three innings.

:clap::beerme::clap:

[WVRedsFan]

Not being able to watch is torture. Latos for Volquez? No brainer (yeah I know a couple of others were involved).

[Tom Servo]

Just saw Heisey's HR, I love how even though it's FSN Arizona feed you can hear somebody (obstinately a Reds fans) yelling "GET OUT OF HERE! YEAH!" during it. :lol:

[RedsfaninMT]

Must have been a good play by Todd

Ball was smoked. He picked it easily and threw cleanly to first.

[Brutus]

He's alive! He's aaaaliiiiiive.

[WVRedsFan]

Way to go Stubby.

[VR]

He's alive! He's aaaaliiiiiive.

Billy Hatcher had to use a beacon signal at first base. Drew instinctively ran to the dugout w/ his head down.

[Tom Servo]

BP! :jump:

[Brutus]

Wooot.

[WVRedsFan]

Awwwriiight! Now 5-2 on Brandon's HR!

[CTA513]

Billy Hatcher had to use a beacon signal at first base. Drew instinctively ran to the dugout w/ his head down.

:laugh:

[RedsfaninMT]

All 3 HR's have been whacked!

[VR]

I'd hate to play the Reds

[Tom Servo]

This game seems reminiscent, on a smaller scale, of that comeback win against ARI right after Votto's injury. Looking like a sure loss after several innings and then BANG. Hopefully this one finishes the same way that one did.

[Gizmo]

I think I'm gonna be done doing pbp for now on! :laugh:

[Big Klu]

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. Brandon Phillips - 139
17. Dan Driessen - 133
17. Joey Votto - 133
19. Jay Bruce - 127
20. Reggie Sanders - 125
21. Ernie Lombardi - 120
22. Sean Casey - 118
23. Frank McCormick - 110
24. Dave Parker - 107
25. Chris Sabo - 104
26. Dave Concepcion - 101

[kaldaniels]

Heisey's was well over the 413 mark, BP over the 407 mark.

Bombs.

[Vottomatic]

Hi=C!!!!1

[Tom Servo]

HEISEY! :jump:

[redhawkfish]

Geez! I love it!

[cincrazy]

Heisey may be playing himself into the CF convo.

[Big Klu]

HEISEY! :jump:

Part Deux!

[Tom Servo]

http://i.imgur.com/a5wuU.jpg
:jump::jump::

[kaldaniels]

What a knucklehead.

[Tom Servo]

6-2 Reds to the bottom of 8.

[Brutus]

Heisey may be playing himself into the CF convo.

I was about a half hour ahead of the curve arguing for Heisey to take over for Stubbs (although to be fair, I said Bruce moving to center was my first preference).

Way to go, Heisey, part deux.

[Vottomatic]

Got to suck being a Cardinal or Pie-Rat player and knowing the Reds already won today.

[Brutus]

Got to suck being a Cardinal or Pie-Rat player and knowing the Reds already won today.

When did the Reds win?

[kaldaniels]

Got to suck being a Cardinal or Pie-Rat player and knowing the Reds already won today.

They don't even need to be paying attention to the Reds at this juncture.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Ugh. It was an early start game today. *sigh*

Got here just in time for Heisey's dinger and the final inning. Better than nothing I guess. :O)

[Kc61]

With Votto due to return soon, just wanted to say that Brandon Phillips has been spectacular since Votto went down.

I said at the time that the veteran Reds like Rolen and Phillips had to show some leadership and boy have they come through.

But in Phillips' case, his defense has been just off the charts. The play he made the other day to give Broxton his first out in the eighth inning was a very recent example.

Hoover coming in, good choice. Let's close em down, JJ.

[Tom Servo]

Hill starts off 3-0, then goes full and flies out to left.

[Tom Servo]

Kubel K's

[Homer Bailey]

Hoover K's Kubel on three pitches.

[Brutus]

Hoover continues to impress. I know I haven't agreed with people on the extent of Ondrusek's suckitude, but I will say I'm glad they have Hoover up with or without Ondrusek. I like this guy a lot.

[Homer Bailey]

Hoover is niiiiiice.

[Tom Servo]

Goldschmidt K's


Nice work by President Hoover!

[dsmith421]

Why not let him go 2? No reason to use Aroldis.

[Kc61]

Might give Hoover another inning to close this out. Off day tomorrow, he's been great since he came back.

No need to use Chapman three days in a row. Wouldn't go to the middle guys.

I vote for President Hoover.

[cincrazy]

Is Aroldis warming up?

[Chip R]

Hoover continues to impress. I know I haven't agreed with people on the extent of Ondrusek's suckitude, but I will say I'm glad they have Hoover up with or without Ondrusek. I like this guy a lot.

I like him too. Liked how he worked out of those jams in Philly and how he blew away the StL hitters last Saturday.

[Homer Bailey]

Hoover doesn't have great control, but man, batters do not look comfortable against him. Looks like his fastball is moving faster than 91 MPH too, doesn't it?

Paul hitting for Hoover, so nevermind.

[Tom Servo]

Navarro singles

X-Man singles

[Gizmo]

Dbacks just falling apart now.

[Kc61]

Don't know what will happen here, tough to win three in a row on the road against a decent team.

But if anyone else wants to start three lefties against the Reds in a series, feel free.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I'd hate to play the Reds

Of course. 1 against 9 is just unfair. :p

[Tom Servo]

Cozart GIDP.

[Homer Bailey]

Cozart rockets one back to the mound, but they turn two.

[Kc61]

Hoover is out of this game, wonder who will pitch the ninth.

[Brutus]

Golden sombrero!

[_Sir_Charles_]

Arredondo warming up

[Gizmo]

Arredondo warming. Stubbs waiting to k. there it is.

[Kc61]

What are we going to do about Stubbs?

[Tom Servo]

Stubbs tried the 'hitting a single' thing but decided it was easier to strikeout again, so he does. Reds leave Navarro stranded.

6-2 to the bottom of 9.

[RedsfaninMT]

Sigh...and my "favorite" commercial continues to play over and over and...

[_Sir_Charles_]

What are we going to do about Stubbs?

He's been abysmal at the plate this year, I don't think anybody will argue that point. But at the same time, he's been VERY good defensively. So here's the question, why do we have to do anything with Stubbs? It's not like he's hurting us. It seems like he should be, but we're in first place with the best record in the majors...so just how much is he really hurting us with the bat that he's not making up with the glove? Right now, the only change I think that is needed is a move in the order for him (and Cozart), but considering where we are in the season...does anybody really think Dusty will change it since if you look at the standings it seems to be working?

[Brutus]

Useless trivia:

With the exception of May of this year (48), Stubbs' 42 strikeouts are more than Adam Dunn has ever had in any month of his career.

[Tom Servo]

What are we going to do about Stubbs?
Drop him off at the zoo and move while he's gone.

[Tom Servo]

Upton goes full, and K's.

[Brutus]

Drop him off at the zoo and move while he's gone.

Ironically, that's how Stubbs got his job from Wily Taveras.

[Tom Servo]

Ironically, that's how Stubbs got his job from Wily Taveras.
I thought we left Wily on top of the car and just drove away.


Wheeler flies out.

[_Sir_Charles_]

Why is Chapman warming up? And LeCure?

[RedsfaninMT]

I thought we left Wily on top of the car and just drove away.


Wheeler flies out.

If that was an intended pun, consider me impressed.

[Tom Servo]

Elmore singles

[Kc61]

He's been abysmal at the plate this year, I don't think anybody will argue that point. But at the same time, he's been VERY good defensively. So here's the question, why do we have to do anything with Stubbs? It's not like he's hurting us. It seems like he should be, but we're in first place with the best record in the majors...so just how much is he really hurting us with the bat that he's not making up with the glove? Right now, the only change I think that is needed is a move in the order for him (and Cozart), but considering where we are in the season...does anybody really think Dusty will change it since if you look at the standings it seems to be working?

I was talking about the longer term. I don't know if anything should be done right now given his good defense. Not many good alternatives right now. Yes, he will probably be dropped in the order.

But longer term, the guy just can't hit major league pitching over an extended number of PAs.

It's disappointing, I thought he was doing better earlier in the season. Maybe the answer is to get him a platoon partner, or to trade him, or maybe you just swallow your medicine and keep him hitting seventhg or eighth.

But he gets in these hitting funks which are beyond belief. Just strikes out time after time after time, etc.

[CTA513]

What are we going to do about Stubbs?

Have him put down?

:evil:

[Vottomatic]

As I tell my kids, it's not what you're doing that's wrong, it's what you're not doing.

Stubbs defense is solid. But how much better would the offense be if he was batting 7th or 8th with someone else in the 2-hole?

[Kc61]

As I tell my kids, it's not what you're doing that's wrong, it's what you're not doing.

Stubbs defense is solid. But how much better would the offense be if he was batting 7th or 8th with someone else in the 2-hole?

The offense would be better, except when the 7th or 8th hitter was up.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I was talking about the longer term. I don't know if anything should be done right now given his good defense. Yes, he will probably be dropped in the order.

But longer term, the guy just can't hit major league pitching over an extended number of PAs.

It's disappointing, I thought he was doing better earlier in the season. Maybe the answer is to get him a platoon partner, or to trade him, or maybe you just swallow your medicine and keep him hitting seventhg or eighth.

But he gets in these hitting funks which are beyond belief. Just strikes out time after time after time, etc.

I agree he SHOULD be dropped in the order, but will he is the question? At this point, I don't think so. I think that once Joey comes back everything will go back to how it was BEFORE he went down. Phillips back in cleanup. It's wrong IMO, but it's how it'll be IMO.

[_Sir_Charles_]

SWEEEEEEEP! And this one belongs to the Reds!

[Tom Servo]

We're still good! :beerme:


And have as many wins as we did in all of 2006!

[Brutus]

I don't see a benefit to dropping him in the order at this juncture. He's woefully bad wherever you hit him.

I'm in favor of Heisey taking over. He's a better overall player, at this particular time. That said, Bruce to center and it gets Frazier in the lineup. I say get 'er done.

[Vottomatic]

I just watched all 4 homers on mlb.com. I've had their package all season. Love how you can watch replays quickly.

[redsmetz]

I hadn't paid attention to the schedule and didn't realize we had a day game until we were eating dinner & I checked my phone to see who was playing. It was the 8th inning when we were up just 3-2.

Sweet win, sweet sweep - on to Houston (which I hope we won't take lightly - don't think we will).

[Big Klu]

What are we going to do about Stubbs?


He's been abysmal at the plate this year, I don't think anybody will argue that point. But at the same time, he's been VERY good defensively.


I don't see a benefit to dropping him in the order at this juncture. He's woefully bad wherever you hit him.

I'm in favor of Heisey taking over. He's a better overall player, at this particular time. That said, Bruce to center and it gets Frazier in the lineup. I say get 'er done.

I look for Stubbs to get plenty of playing time in Houston this weekend. With the cavernous CF they have in the Juice Box, you need someone who can cover a lot of ground.

When the Reds get back home, you could see more of Heisey in CF, and possibly also see the Grand Experiment of Bruce in CF and Frazier going to the OF in one or two games.

[edabbs44]

As I tell my kids, it's not what you're doing that's wrong, it's what you're not doing.

Stubbs defense is solid. But how much better would the offense be if he was batting 7th or 8th with someone else in the 2-hole?

Then there will be issues that player x doesn't have proper protection from Stubbs. It ain't broke.

[Big Klu]

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. Brandon Phillips - 139
17. Dan Driessen - 133
17. Joey Votto - 133
19. Jay Bruce - 127
20. Reggie Sanders - 125
21. Ernie Lombardi - 120
22. Sean Casey - 118
23. Frank McCormick - 110
24. Dave Parker - 107
25. Chris Sabo - 104
26. Dave Concepcion - 101

[Sea Ray]

This team really is something. We all knew today's game had letdown written all over it and they did sleepwalk through 5 or 6 innings but in the end, our bench guys did the major damage. 4 HRs/ 10 batters...ballgame

This has got to be deflating to the teams following us. My guess is they were counting on the Reds to drop one or two out here but they did just what good teams do. Sweep the team you're playing while your closest rivals are playing each other...:)

[kaldaniels]

What exactly do you guys mean by "sleepwalk"? I ask because I infer that to mean "non-motivated" or "playing lazy".

[VR]

This team really is something. We all knew today's game had letdown written all over it and they did sleepwalk through 5 or 6 innings but in the end, our bench guys did the major damage. 4 HRs/ 10 batters...ballgame

This has got to be deflating to the teams following us. My guess is they were counting on the Reds to drop one or two out here but they did just what good teams do. Sweep the team you're playing while your closest rivals are playing each other...:)

Agreed....sleepwalking is exactly right. As opposed to other years, I had confidence they would something. Solid pitching and defense to hold the dam, hope the bats come around. Sweet victory. As I said earlier in the thread, I would hate to play the Reds.

[Tom Servo]

What exactly do you guys mean by "sleepwalk"? I ask because I infer that to mean "non-motivated" or "playing lazy".
Pretty much. For the first few innings, it seemed like the Reds just wanted the game to be over so they could get out of Arizona. And I don't necessarily blame them, it's a long 162 game schedule. But it can be frustrating to watch as a fan.

[cincrazy]

I think the Corbin kid deserves some credit. He was fantastic. True, our approach could've been better. Made too many outs early in the count. But that guy can pitch. This is what good offenses do. They can appear asleep for several innings, then just explode.

Before the year, I said the offense would be a huge problem. I stand corrected. I think this offense is better than the 2010 and 2011 versions, even if the RS might not indicate that.

[_Sir_Charles_]

I hadn't paid attention to the schedule and didn't realize we had a day game until we were eating dinner & I checked my phone to see who was playing. It was the 8th inning when we were up just 3-2.

Sweet win, sweet sweep - on to Houston (which I hope we won't take lightly - don't think we will).

I did the same thing.

And yes, on to Houston. I just bought my tickets to both Friday night & Sunday afternoon. With the move to the AL it looks like it might be my last time seeing my Redlegs in person for a LOOOOOOOONG while.


I look for Stubbs to get plenty of playing time in Houston this weekend. With the cavernous CF they have in the Juice Box, you need someone who can cover a lot of ground.

When the Reds get back home, you could see more of Heisey in CF, and possibly also see the Grand Experiment of Bruce in CF and Frazier going to the OF in one or two games.

And I agree with this. I don't know if they'll do the Bruce into center thing. But Drew seems to play better in Texas. He has a pretty large following here in Minute Maid (as does Jay). But I definitely want Drew in center in Houston's big back yard.

[cumberlandreds]

I just finished watching the game off the DVR. Another day and a couple of different players come through. Hesiey and Navarro with the bigs hits. Pretty amazing season and a lot of fun too. Corbin pitched a good game but you could tell in the 6th inning the Reds were starting to size him up. I haven't read this entire thread and maybe this was mentioned but the on the D'Backs post game they said this was the earliest the Reds had won 80 games since 1976. That's pretty amazing. I'll give kudos to the D'Backs TV production too for interviewing Heisey after the game. You never see the Reds interview an opposing player in the post game.

[cumberlandreds]

http://i.imgur.com/a5wuU.jpg
:

I saw this in the thread yesterday and think its just hilarious! :laugh:

[traderumor]

Pretty much. For the first few innings, it seemed like the Reds just wanted the game to be over so they could get out of Arizona. And I don't necessarily blame them, it's a long 162 game schedule. But it can be frustrating to watch as a fan.I don't know. I'm sure guys struggle day to day just like I do to be "on" at my job. But still, I think it is easy to think that in baseball, where a pitcher dominating, for whatever reason, makes the other team look lethargic. So then, they all of a sudden turn it on because Frazier doubled? If the Reds phoned in all the games they are accused of by fans, they sure wouldn't be 28 games over .500.