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cumberlandreds
10-01-2012, 04:58 PM
This will probably be your playoff starting eight.


Brandon Phillps, 2b
Zack Cozart, ss
Joey Votto, 1b
Ryan Ludwick, lf
Jay Bruce, rf
Scott Rolen, 3b
Ryan Hanigan, c
Drew Stubbs, cf
Bronson Arroyo, rhp

cumberlandreds
10-01-2012, 05:03 PM
Here's the Cards lineup:

1. Jon Jay (L) CF

2. Carlos Beltran (S) RF

3. Matt Holliday (R) LF

4. Allen Craig (R) 1B

5. Yadier Molina (R) C

6. David Freese (R) 3B

7. Daniel Descalso (L) 2B

8. Pete Kozma (R) SS

9. Jaime Garcia (L) P

Brutus
10-01-2012, 05:38 PM
I'll take it. Now ruin St. Louis' season, please.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 06:21 PM
I like Hanigan batting ahead of Stubbs.

oneupper
10-01-2012, 06:23 PM
I like Hanigan batting ahead of Stubbs.

I like Arroyo ahead of Stubbs.

.379 OPS for Stubbs in September. I don't think I've ever seen anything that low.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 06:24 PM
Yeah, but baby steps. :)

redsfaninbsg
10-01-2012, 06:31 PM
.379 OPS for Stubbs in September. I don't think I've ever seen anything that low.


I hear he's the second coming of Mays with the glove though.:D

Kc61
10-01-2012, 06:44 PM
Here's some things I'd like to see this series. No particular order.

Like to see Bruce get two more RBIs for 100.

Like to see Arroyo break 200 innings, which only requires three more.

Like to see Valdez stay over .200 BA, now .203. Guy plays hard, let him have this.

Like to see Homer pull a Johnny Vander Meer on the last day of the season. (Right.)

Like to see Votto get up dozens of times and win the batting title but won't happen so you can skip this one.

Like to see Chapman pitch twice this series to get some more rust off.

Like to see Reds finish with the best record in MLB.

Like to see Reds generate some offense.

Like to see the Reds pitching staff have the lowest team ERA in the NL which is a very close race.

Like to see Frazier get HR 20. He has 19.

Like to see Latos get his 14th win, guy gets so many no decisions and has pitched great.

Like to see Arredondo have a good outing and get on a roll for the post season.

Like to see no injuries, because if you have your health you have everything.

PuffyPig
10-01-2012, 07:15 PM
I like Arroyo ahead of Stubbs.

.379 OPS for Stubbs in September. I don't think I've ever seen anything that low.

How about Arroyo's OPS for the year, .366?

PuffyPig
10-01-2012, 07:19 PM
Like to see the Reds pitching staff have the lowest team ERA in the NL which is a very close race.



They are actually leading in something more important, least amount of runs given up.

Up my 7 over the Generals, 8 over the Dodgers.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 07:32 PM
Phillies take a 2-0 lead on the Nationals in the 2nd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:07 PM
Yankees are destroying the Red Sox. A 9 run second inning with 4 homers

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:17 PM
They are actually leading in something more important, least amount of runs given up.

Up my 7 over the Generals, 8 over the Dodgers.

In discussing best pitching staff, many people focus on team ERA. I'd like to see the Reds win that battle against the Nationals and the Dodgers. Given GABP, it would be quite amazing.

Phillips grounds to deep short, one out.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:17 PM
Phillips grounds out to short.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:18 PM
Cozart grounds out to short.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:19 PM
Votto flies out to left. 0-0 mid 1st.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:22 PM
Jay flies out to left.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:23 PM
Beltran singles to center.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:25 PM
Holliday singles to left. 1st and 2nd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:27 PM
Craig strikes out. 2 outs.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:28 PM
Molina up with runners on - NOW I'm nervous!

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:29 PM
Close play at second to end inning. Really close.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:29 PM
Molina grounds into a 6-4 FC. 0-0 after 1.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:31 PM
White Sox who are just barely still in it take a 1-0 lead on an Adam Dunn RBI.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:32 PM
Ludwick grounds out to Garcia

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 08:33 PM
Garcia is 23 outs from a perfect game.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:33 PM
Nats still trail Phils 2-0 bottom five in the District of Columbia.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:33 PM
Garcia is 23 outs from a perfect game.

Is this an example of pre-mature jinxing? :laugh:

RedsFan75
10-01-2012, 08:33 PM
Anyone else sick of hearing Chris and Thom gush about the cards


Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:34 PM
There is a hit. Bruce singles to right.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 08:34 PM
Is this an example of pre-mature jinxing? :laugh:

You tell me!

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:34 PM
Garcia is 23 outs from a perfect game.

there it goes, Bruce singles.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:34 PM
You tell me!

Not too early at all - right on time! :lol: Do it again!

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:36 PM
Cards announcers speculating that Rolen will retire.

Saying nice things about him, which he deserves.

Now noting that EE has 42 homers and was traded for Rolen.

Now saying Rolen has been worth it.

Now Rolen strikes out, throw out the runner, DP.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:36 PM
Double play. Rolen strikes out and Bruce is caught stealing. 0-0 mid 2nd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:39 PM
Freese singles to right center.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:39 PM
Looks like Arroyo is going to have to bear down a bit or it's going to be a short night for him.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:41 PM
Descalso strikes out looking. 2 Ks.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:42 PM
Former River Bandit (home town minor league team) Kozma up - good kid.

Too bad he's a Cardinal

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:44 PM
Just what the wizard wanted!

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:44 PM
Kozma grounds into a 5-4-3 DP. 0-0 after 2.

gilpdawg
10-01-2012, 08:45 PM
I hear he's the second coming of Mays with the glove though.:D

Lou Brown: you might run like Mays, but you hit like (bleep). :p

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:48 PM
Hanigan grounds out to 1st.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 08:49 PM
What's everyone imbibing? I just cracked a Robert the Bruce.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:49 PM
Infield hit for Stubbs.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 08:50 PM
If only the guy could bunt. Base hit Stubbs. He fast.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 08:50 PM
What's everyone imbibing? I just cracked a Robert the Bruce.

PBR. Too lazy to go to the store

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:51 PM
Good bunt by Arroyo. 2 outs.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 08:51 PM
PBR. Too lazy to go to the store

I'm sorry to hear that.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 08:52 PM
I'm sorry to hear that.

Me, too.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:52 PM
Baltimore ties Tampa Bay 1-1 in the 7th on a Matt Wieters homer.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:52 PM
What's everyone imbibing? I just cracked a Robert the Bruce.

Water - but it is on tap! ;)

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:54 PM
Big hit. Phillips singles to left. 1-0 Reds.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:54 PM
Phillips getting booed after driving in the run.

Matt700wlw
10-01-2012, 08:54 PM
Keep booing, Cardinals fans. Keep booing. :)

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:54 PM
BP delivers!

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:54 PM
Cozart singles to right. 1st and 3rd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:55 PM
Brandon not looking good running the bases there.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 08:55 PM
Cozart starting to show some signs of life again - good timing!

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:56 PM
Phillips not a hundred percent. Waves off any help and remains at third.

RedsMan3203
10-01-2012, 08:56 PM
Of all the people the Reds can't afford to lose its Phillips... Hopefully his leg isn't goign to be an issue....

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 08:56 PM
Groin pull.

Matt700wlw
10-01-2012, 08:57 PM
Should they pull him as a precaution?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 08:58 PM
Votto flies out to left. 1-0 Reds mid 3rd.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 08:58 PM
Should they pull him as a precaution?

I would.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 08:59 PM
Phils still up two over DC after six innings of play.

Matt700wlw
10-01-2012, 09:00 PM
I'm on radio tonight, and they didn't say anything, so I'm guessing Phillips is still in?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:01 PM
Garcia homers. Tie game 1-1.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 09:01 PM
Goodness.

Matt700wlw
10-01-2012, 09:01 PM
Oops.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:01 PM
Not a good way for Arroyo to begin his 200th inning of the season.

Could have lived without that.

Now one out, nice play BA.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 09:02 PM
I'm on radio tonight, and they didn't say anything, so I'm guessing Phillips is still in?

Yes. Talked to Dusty and headed for the bench.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:02 PM
Nice flip from Votto to Arroyo

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:03 PM
Beltran walks.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:06 PM
Holliday singles to center. 1st and 2nd.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:07 PM
Trouble here.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:08 PM
Craig doubles to left. 2-1 Cards.

redsfaninbsg
10-01-2012, 09:08 PM
Does anybody actually want to see Arroyo pitch a big game?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:09 PM
Molina sac fly to center. 3-1 Cards.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:11 PM
Does anybody actually want to see Arroyo pitch a big game?

not against a team that faces him 4-5 times a year...like tonight. I honestly don't see how anyone has trouble with him. You just set on the breaking ball, let the fastballs go by...breaking ball is coming.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:12 PM
Freese strikes out looking. Looks like they caught a break with that call. 3-1 Cards after 3.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:13 PM
Arroyo has his 200 innings.

That's one goal reached.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:15 PM
Ludwick grounds out to short.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:15 PM
Tampa Bay now up 4-1 on the Orioles in the 7th

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:16 PM
Eight inning in DC, still 2-0 Phillies.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:16 PM
Bruce strikes out swinging.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:17 PM
Eight inning in DC, still 2-0 Phillies.

good...

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:17 PM
Rolen grounds out to Garcia. 3-1 Cards mid 4th.

vaticanplum
10-01-2012, 09:17 PM
Is Arroyo historically worse in chilly weather? It seems to be taking a bit of a toll on him.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 09:18 PM
Good to see vets like Ludwick and Rolen taking pitches and working the count.

:rolleyes:

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:18 PM
Is Arroyo historically worse in chilly weather? It seems to be taking a bit of a toll on him.

ball does not break as much....so if he is off, its basicly batting practice

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:20 PM
Descalso grounds out to 1st.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:22 PM
Kozma strikes out swinging. 4 Ks

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:22 PM
Garcia flies out to right. 3-1 Cards after 4.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:23 PM
Thom is pretty clueless on the different playoff scenarios. Talking about does Texas have something to play for. Yes they have not won their division yet.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 09:24 PM
The Arroyo bashing seems misplaced. Bronson is a gamer, I trust him as much as any other starter in the playoffs.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 09:25 PM
I would think if you were playing a game, you'd want to win it. I think Chris and Thomas are bored.

redsfaninbsg
10-01-2012, 09:26 PM
The Arroyo bashing seems misplaced. Bronson is a gamer, I trust him as much as any other starter in the playoffs.

Cueto and Latos > Arroyo

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:28 PM
Hanigan walks

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:28 PM
The Arroyo bashing seems misplaced. Bronson is a gamer, I trust him as much as any other starter in the playoffs.

wow....not bashing...he's just our 4th starter...no doubt. Trust him as much as Cueto, Latos? Big statement.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:29 PM
Wild pitch moves Hanigan to 2nd.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 09:30 PM
I mean, yeah, if I had my choice I'd rather have Cueto or Latos, but any of the starters are capable of shutting them down or melting down. Some are acting like Arroyo is an also-ran.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:30 PM
Stubbs strikes out swinging.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:31 PM
Stubbs strikes out swinging.

That has to be the first time he's struck out this month...right?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:33 PM
Arroyo strikes out swinging.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:33 PM
Phillips grounds out to short. 3-1 Cards mid 5th.

alloverjr
10-01-2012, 09:35 PM
Stubbs strikes out swinging.

I just don't believe his defense justifies this. I don't think he's hit a ball hard since Cordero.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:38 PM
Jay strikes out swinging. 5 Ks for Arroyo.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:39 PM
Beltran grounds out to 3rd. Nice play by Votto to get the throw and tag the runner.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:39 PM
Jeremy Horst helps (I guess) his former team by getting a strike out with two on in the eighth. Ninth inning, Phils by two.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:39 PM
Nationals had 2 on with 1 out and fail to score. 2-0 Phillies after 8.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:41 PM
Holliday strikes out swinging. 6 Ks for Arroyo. 3-1 Cards after 5.

powersackers
10-01-2012, 09:42 PM
How about a rally here. String some hits together and show some freaking life with the sticks. Its been far too long.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:44 PM
Cozart grounds out to 3rd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:45 PM
Votto strikes out loooking.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 09:46 PM
All three strikes Votto took were in the zone - no swing at all from Votto? Wha?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:46 PM
Nationals just won the NL East as the Pirates beat the Braves.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:47 PM
Ludwick grounds out to 3rd. 3-1 Cards mid 6th.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:47 PM
Votto's has reached base in every game since coming back..right? maybe tonight is the night.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:49 PM
I guess it's just an adjustment to a team that pitches better than it hits.

But this lack of offense very unpleasant.

Team has more wins than I ever imagined, so no complaints, but they have so much trouble generating an offense.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:49 PM
Simon in to pitch. Heisey in to play left.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:49 PM
Simon takes over for Arroyo.

Tadasimha
10-01-2012, 09:50 PM
Ludwick hurting or are they just being careful?

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:50 PM
Ludwick hurting or are they just being careful?

I think being careful. So as part of double switch Heisey comes in.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:52 PM
Craig grounds out to 3rd.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:54 PM
Nationals lost 2-0. Be interesting to see how they handle the next few games since they won the division tonight. Will they rest players or go for the one seed.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 09:54 PM
Nats lose to Phils, but celebrate their Eastern Division championship.

Reds can jump on top for best record, but only if they score. Runs.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:56 PM
Molina singles.

Freese strikes out swinging.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 09:57 PM
Descalso triples to left center. 4-1 Cards. The Cards scorer is a joke giving him a triple there.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 09:58 PM
This line up hits from 1-9....who wants to be the 1st seed?

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 09:58 PM
Feels like the Cards always play add-on when they face Simon.

redsfaninbsg
10-01-2012, 09:58 PM
If the Reds lose this game root for SF. STL would have nothing to play for

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:00 PM
Kozma walks.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:00 PM
Simon not helping his cause for making post season roster...I'd take Leake in long relief..

powersackers
10-01-2012, 10:00 PM
Ugh, the dreaded 4 runs against. The point where you can count us officially out of a game. Wish I was kidding.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:01 PM
Simon not helping his cause for making post season roster...I'd take Leake in long relief..
Agreed.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:01 PM
Garcia grounds out to Simon. 4-1 Cards after 6.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:03 PM
Tampa Bay beat the Orioles 5-3. So the Orioles will be 1 game behind the Yankees and Tampa Bay is still alive for the wild card.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:05 PM
Bruce strikes out looking.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:06 PM
Rolen doubles to the wall in center.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:07 PM
Passed ball moves Rolen to 3rd.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:08 PM
I know we have a thread about this, but aren't we concerned about the offense? Very few solid at bats and they're not strung together. Home run power has been sapped, which I'm worried is fatigue.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:09 PM
Hanigan sac fly to left. 4-2 Cards.

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 10:10 PM
I know we have a thread about this, but aren't we concerned about the offense? Very few solid at bats and they're not strung together. Home run power has been sapped, which I'm worried is fatigue.

Hugely worried. And the pitching is only going to get nastier from here on out. The Astros and Cubs are no longer on the schedule to bail the Reds out of funks.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:10 PM
Stubbs singles to center.

redsfaninbsg
10-01-2012, 10:11 PM
C'mon Heisey

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:11 PM
Edward Mujica in to pitch

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:11 PM
I know we have a thread about this, but aren't we concerned about the offense? Very few solid at bats and they're not strung together. Home run power has been sapped, which I'm worried is fatigue.

We have played the same number of games as everybody else. Being "tired" or "fatigued" holds no water.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:12 PM
I know we have a thread about this, but aren't we concerned about the offense? Very few solid at bats and they're not strung together. Home run power has been sapped, which I'm worried is fatigue.
The lack of power bothers me, it just seems so odd that all of a sudden they are last in NL HR's. But overall I think they should be fine.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:13 PM
We have played the same number of games as everybody else. Being "tired" or "fatigued" holds no water.

But it doesn't seem to be showing itself with anyone else. That's what worries me.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:15 PM
Mujica has to have the worst beard I've ever seen.

RedsMan3203
10-01-2012, 10:15 PM
Does this guy have a neck beard?

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:15 PM
Does this guy have a neck beard?

My avatar has better facial hair than he does.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 10:16 PM
Heisey. Wow.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:16 PM
Heisey pops out to 2nd. 4-2 Cards mid 7th

RedsMan3203
10-01-2012, 10:18 PM
But it doesn't seem to be showing itself with anyone else. That's what worries me.

Everyone else hasn't been on cruise control since early September either...

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:18 PM
My roommate is being a soldier and letting me watch this game instead of his beloved Cowboys on MNF. That's a true friend.

I really don't like football.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:20 PM
Jay lines out to 2nd.

kbrake
10-01-2012, 10:21 PM
My roommate is being a soldier and letting me watch this game instead of his beloved Cowboys on MNF. That's a true friend.

I really don't like football.

The Cowboys offense looks about like the Reds offense so he isn't missing much.

The Reds offense is capable of getting hot and going off for a couple weeks at a time we have seen it a couple times this year. I've pretty much accepted we'll get on one of those streaks and make a deep run or we'll continue hitting like this and be lucky to sneak into the LCS.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:21 PM
Everyone else hasn't been on cruise control since early September either...

I've always wondered about this. Baseball is hitter vs pitcher. Even though lineups change in cruise control stretches, it's mostly the same hitters against the same pitchers.

So do the regular hitters get less focused in these "meaningless" games? With the importance of individual stats, you'd think there would be little change in approaches no matter the situation.

I don't buy into the idea that hitters take at bats off.

RedsMan3203
10-01-2012, 10:26 PM
I've always wondered about this. Baseball is hitter vs pitcher. Even though lineups change in cruise control stretches, it's mostly the same hitters against the same pitchers.

So do the regular hitters get less focused in these "meaningless" games? With the importance of individual stats, you'd think there would be little change in approaches no matter the situation.

I don't buy into the idea that hitters take at bats off.

I don't think they take at bats off, but we've seen alot more of the "others" get some PT... Ludwick wasn't rushed back, Cozart wasn't rushed back... Rolen has been given time off, same with Frazier, etc...

I think if you've put this lineup out there day in and day out, it would "look" like a different outcome...

Reds have had the luck to be able to start the Valdezs, Pauls (while still good) Heisey, etc without losing much ground.

dman
10-01-2012, 10:26 PM
I've always wondered about this. Baseball is hitter vs pitcher. Even though lineups change in cruise control stretches, it's mostly the same hitters against the same pitchers.

So do the regular hitters get less focused in these "meaningless" games? With the importance of individual stats, you'd think there would be little change in approaches no matter the situation.

I don't buy into the idea that hitters take at bats off.

For me, I guess I'm taking the "I'll wait and see in October" mentality. After the way things went down the tubes really quickly in 2010, this team could be saving themselves for October baseball. At least that's what I'm hoping they're doing. For every one of our hitters to seemingly stall at once seems very unlikely.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:28 PM
Beltran singled.
Hollldiay walks.
Beltran caught stealing 3rd.
Craig grounds out.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:29 PM
For me, I guess I'm taking the "I'll wait and see in October" mentality. After the way things went down the tubes really quickly in 2010, this team could be saving themselves for October baseball. At least that's what I'm hoping they're doing. For every one of our hitters to seemingly stall at once seems very unlikely.

What does this mean? I'm not trying to be a contrarian, I'm genuinely interested in an answer to this question I've had for a long time.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:31 PM
What does this mean? I'm not trying to be a contrarian, I'm genuinely interested in an answer to this question I've had for a long time.
Granted none of us are pro baseball players, but it's hard not to assume that most guys kick it up a notch (a notch you can't reach until you're finally there) when it's playoff time.

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 10:31 PM
Most worrisome is the offense seemingly went down hill when Joey Votto returned. Does this team fall into the trap of thinking Votto will bail them out?

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:32 PM
By the way, this may be Robert the Bruce talking, but this is my first year in the ORG, and you guys have enhanced my enjoyment of Reds baseball tenfold this season, so thanks.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:32 PM
Granted none of us are pro baseball players, but it's hard not to assume that most guys kick it up a notch (a notch you can't reach until you're finally there) when it's playoff time.

I won't argue with this. Maybe you just have to be the best at something to understand what that next notch is.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:35 PM
For me, I guess I'm taking the "I'll wait and see in October" mentality. After the way things went down the tubes really quickly in 2010, this team could be saving themselves for October baseball. At least that's what I'm hoping they're doing. For every one of our hitters to seemingly stall at once seems very unlikely.

it's October 1st. This is October baseball. Perhaps the last series of the season, against your division rival, with a chance to knock them out of the playoffs is a good time to get things going.

maybe? You think?

kbrake
10-01-2012, 10:37 PM
it's October 1st. This is October baseball. Perhaps the last series of the season, against your division rival, with a chance to knock them out of the playoffs is a good time to get things going.

maybe? You think?

This is not the playoffs yet. I don't think it will definitely happen but I certainly think it is possible this team could kick it up a notch starting Saturday or Sunday.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:37 PM
If I ever found myself with an interview with a pro, that would be 90 percent of my line of questioning. As a former journalist, that makes me drool.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 10:38 PM
I'd guess there's a mentality that comes over a player. My job now is to be ready for the playoffs and healthy. I'll play "hard" but I basically want to protect my body from injury and not overdo things.

It seems more pronounced for the offense on the Reds, but pitchers don't work every day so maybe they face their outings with more of a sense of importance.

The problem, of course, is whether the team can get it going again on demand in the playoffs. I think it depends on the team, the opposition, the pitching matchups, etc.

With the Reds we lived through a horrendous slump early in the season and it's a bit upsetting to see this lack of offense now. The Reds will become more intense in the playoffs, to be sure, but who knows if it will amount to much more offense. We'll see.

Hollcat
10-01-2012, 10:39 PM
Does it seem like Votto is taking a lot of strikes and getting himself into pitchers counts

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:40 PM
With the Reds we lived through a horrendous slump early in the season and it's a bit upsetting to see this lack of offense now. The Reds will become more intense in the playoffs, to be sure, but who knows if it will amount to much more offense. We'll see.

Good summary of my worries.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:41 PM
Does it seem like Votto is taking a lot of strikes and getting himself into pitchers counts

I don't think two strikes bothers Votto in the least. I get the feeling he's never seen a count he doesn't like. 0-2 means he got to see two of your pitches, so you're the one in the hole.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:41 PM
You know I always thought the reason Tony La Russa resigned was he thought that the Cards were "done" after last year. He knew Sir Albert was gone and Carpenter was on his last legs.

I bet you if he knew that the Cards were more than likely to be in the playoffs he would not have resigned....just my opinion.

Kc61
10-01-2012, 10:42 PM
Hoover pitching.

Marty said on the radio that Dusty wanted to give Simon and Hoover some pitching time. Sounds like they will be on the post-season roster, but who really knows.

Still, why use them tonight if they are not going to the playoffs.

Could be that Arredondo won't be on the roster then. Can't have 15 relievers.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:43 PM
Hoover pitching.

Marty said on the radio that Dusty wanted to give Simon and Hoover some pitching time. Sounds like they will be on the post-season roster, but who really knows.

Still, why use them tonight if they are not going to the playoffs.

Could be that Arredondo won't be on the roster then. Can't have 15 relievers.

I'm very ok with all of this.

dman
10-01-2012, 10:43 PM
This is not the playoffs yet. I don't think it will definitely happen but I certainly think it is possible this team could kick it up a notch starting Saturday or Sunday.

That's what I was getting at. The only player that has more/less been looking like their normal selves has been Drew Stubbs. I don't want to say that this team hasn't been trying hard each time they take the field, but it looks like they've been trying just hard enough to get by when they needed to, and I'm okay with that so long as they light the afterburners next weekend.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:44 PM
Lets get 3!

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:45 PM
That's what I was getting at. The only player that has more/less been looking like their normal selves has been Drew Stubbs. I don't want to say that this team hasn't been trying hard each time they take the field, but it looks like they've been trying just hard enough to get by when they needed to, and I'm okay with that so long as they light the afterburners next weekend.

Turning it on like a light switch is very hard...Can it happen...sure. However, no one looks like they are about to bust open.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:46 PM
Motte in to pitch the 9th

kbrake
10-01-2012, 10:48 PM
How about we just find a way to split one of the first two games on the road then come back to GABP and just win 2 out of 3. After that the offense wakes up and gets hot for two weeks and the Reds when the World Series...

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:48 PM
Turning it on like a light switch is very hard...Can it happen...sure. However, no one looks like they are about to bust open.
Well they didn't look like they were about to become the juggernaut they turned into when they were struggling in April/May.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:48 PM
Motte leading the Cards in saves, while most think Mujica should be leading in shaves.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 10:48 PM
Jay is cold as ice again. Can't figure him out.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:49 PM
Bruce grounds out to2nd.

kbrake
10-01-2012, 10:49 PM
Jay is cold as ice again. Can't figure him out.


Honestly I'd be more concerned if he had been on fire the last two weeks.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:49 PM
pull, pull, roll over on an out side pitch...same song for Bruce.

Everyday is ground hog day.

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:51 PM
Rolen strikes out swinging

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 10:51 PM
This is not the playoffs yet. I don't think it will definitely happen but I certainly think it is possible this team could kick it up a notch starting Saturday or Sunday.

In a way, this is the beginnings of the playoff stretch. The Reds have a chance to possibly knock the Cardinals out of the playoffs. With the way the Cards are playing, with their history of bullying the Reds and with their recent October history, does anyone really want to see them in a week or two?

The Reds could have done something about that this week.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:51 PM
Ok I've decided--I want the #2 seed.

alloverjr
10-01-2012, 10:52 PM
Well they didn't look like they were about to become the juggernaut they turned into when they were struggling in April/May.

Unfortunately, it's not going to be 85 - 95 degrees either. They pad their offensive numbers (like a lot of others), in a small park when pop ups find the first row. I've no confidence this teams makes it out of the first round.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
In a way, this is the beginnings of the playoff stretch. The Reds have a chance to possibly knock the Cardinals out of the playoffs. With the way the Cards are playing and with their October history, does anyone really want to see them in a week or two?

The Reds could have done something about that this week.

in a week or two? How about this weekend?

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
I don't want to open wit 2 on the west coast.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
No offense, but the negativity to me seems unnecessary. It's been a great season. And if it continues deep into October, nobody will be talking about the offensive struggles. And if they don't, it's just a meaningless "told you so".

Reds Fanatic
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
Reds lose 4-2.

kbrake
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
In a way, this is the beginnings of the playoff stretch. The Reds have a chance to possibly knock the Cardinals out of the playoffs. With the way the Cards are playing and with their October history, does anyone really want to see them in a week or two?

The Reds could have done something about that this week.

The Reds could sweep the Cards and still open with them in the playoffs. There is nothing the Reds can do about that. When you lose in the playoffs you go home and your season is over. This is nothing close to that.

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 10:53 PM
in a week or two? How about this weekend?

Doubtful the Reds get the No. 1 seed, so we wouldn't see them again until the NLCS.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:54 PM
I don't want to open wit 2 on the west coast.

Oh, I do. I'd take the giants over Bush Stadium or Turner Field.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:55 PM
Also the Reds lost so we're bad again, if you are keeping track at home.

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 10:55 PM
Oh, I do. I'd take the giants over Bush Stadium or Turner Field.

Good point, but I always fear the west coast.

dman
10-01-2012, 10:56 PM
This is my theme song for Reds playoff baseball:

Iron Maiden - Can I Play With Madness (Official Music Video) - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSZbbTjM0Es)

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 10:57 PM
No offense, but the negativity to me seems unnecessary. It's been a great season. And if it continues deep into October, nobody will be talking about the offensive struggles. And if they don't, it's just a meaningless "told you so".

If this is directed at me at all, I want to emphasize that I think Cincinnati has as good of a chance at the title as anyone. If anything will bite them, it's the offense. Regardless, this is my favorite season since 99, and could very well end up my favorite ever. Concerns are legitimate, but they don't remove from the magic that is 2012.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 10:57 PM
Doubtful the Reds get the No. 1 seed, so we wouldn't see them again until the NLCS.

We are tied with 2 games to play. It's not doubtful...there is a real chance.

Saturday night....Bush stadium...no thanks.

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 10:58 PM
Oh, I do. I'd take the giants over Bush Stadium or Turner Field.

You'd take going to San Francisco and facing Matt Cain and then either Madison Bumgarner or Tim Lincecum as opposed to a pair of games in Turner Field against the Braves' Nos. 2 and 3 starters?

It's a moot point really though: I don't think the Braves have a prayer of beating the Cards in the WC game. We've seen this STL horror movie before.

Tom Servo
10-01-2012, 10:59 PM
If this is directed at me at all, I want to emphasize that I think Cincinnati has as good of a chance at the title as anyone. If anything will bite them, it's the offense. Regardless, this is my favorite season since 99, and could very well end up my favorite ever. Concerns are legitimate, but they don't remove from the magic that is 2012.
Wasn't directed towards you, just a general statement towards the worry-warts. :thumbup:

George Foster
10-01-2012, 11:03 PM
If this is directed at me at all, I want to emphasize that I think Cincinnati has as good of a chance at the title as anyone. If anything will bite them, it's the offense. Regardless, this is my favorite season since 99, and could very well end up my favorite ever. Concerns are legitimate, but they don't remove from the magic that is 2012.

I get what you are saying but the "magic" of 2012 does not make me feel warm and fuzzy. We are suppose to be here. This is not a Cinderella story. The whole point of winning a division is to put yourself in a position to win a World Series. That is what they are suppose to be playing for and that is why we watch.

This season will be a disappointment if we don't at least make it to the NLCS.
This is our time. The Future is now.

Brutus
10-01-2012, 11:04 PM
You'd take going to San Francisco and facing Matt Cain and then either Madison Bumgarner or Tim Lincecum as opposed to a pair of games in Turner Field against the Braves' Nos. 2 and 3 starters?

It's a moot point really though: I don't think the Braves have a prayer of beating the Cards in the WC game. We've seen this STL horror movie before.

The Braves have given up 43 runs fewer than the Giants this year. Hanson-Hudson-Medlen with that bullpen is no day at the picnic.

WildcatFan
10-01-2012, 11:05 PM
I get what you are saying but the "magic" of 2012 does not make me feel warm and fuzzy. We are suppose to be here. This is not a Cinderella story. The whole point of winning a division is to put yourself in a position to win a World Series. That is what they are suppose to be playing for and that is why we watch.

This season will be a disappointment if we don't at least make it to the NLCS.
This is our time. The Future is now.

Agreed on all points. But this season has been amazing for a long suffering fan base.

Reds/Flyers Fan
10-01-2012, 11:05 PM
We are tied with 2 games to play. It's not doubtful...there is a real chance.

Saturday night....Bush stadium...no thanks.

Don't forget that the Reds have to finish a game ahead of the Nats in order to win the No. 1 seed. So, in the next two games, the Reds have to either go 2-0 to the Nats' 1-1 or 1-1 to the Nats' 0-2. There's a chance, yes. But considering who we're playing and what they're playing for this series, it's a slim one.

And no, I don't want to play the Cards in the first round either. In fact, I'd just as soon not see them again until April.

George Foster
10-01-2012, 11:06 PM
You'd take going to San Francisco and facing Matt Cain and then either Madison Bumgarner or Tim Lincecum as opposed to a pair of games in Turner Field against the Braves' Nos. 2 and 3 starters?

It's a moot point really though: I don't think the Braves have a prayer of beating the Cards in the WC game. We've seen this STL horror movie before.

You just made my point. Let someone else play the Cards. We have beat Cain twice this year. Pac Bell park is a pitchers ball park and we have real pitching...

WVRedsFan
10-01-2012, 11:07 PM
The Reds have won 96-98 games depending on the result of the last two games. At this point in time (dang, I just quoted A Nixon staffer), no team in the majors has won more games. We're going to be OK. The playoffs are a crap shoot. I say we roll 7's and take it all.

CrackerJack
10-02-2012, 12:06 AM
They're going to have to score more than 1-2 runs a game if they want to win a series against anyone during the "postseason crap shoot" though. We can always hope.