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Home > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2008 > July > 13 > Entry

Give me a (All-Star) break

By Hal McCoy | Sunday, July 13, 2008, 12:21 PM

Aruba, Jamaica, it’s where I wanna take ya.

Well, not all of you. I’d take some - but it is a week without baseball and nothing around the pool but cola and lemonade. Rum? Maybe a touch.

So today is it. Last post for a week. I’m leaving it in your hands. Be nice. Treat each other with respect. Give your opinions and respect others. And I’m still hearing moans about Griffey batting third.

Quit wasting breath and finger muscles typing it. It isn’t going to change.

Now, I can’t believe none of you astute observers have wondered the last two days why Jared Burton hasn’t pitched. They’ve kept it nicely under cover, hoping the Milwaukee Brewers wouldn’t notice.

Burton isn’t available. He’s hurt. How bad? Check back after the All-Star break.

It happened last week when he was pitching against the Nationals and a dispute broke out on the field. While the umpires and the Reds argued, Burton stood and watched. Didn’t throw any practice pitches.

When the on-field discussions ended, Burton threw a pitch and, “Ow.” Something under his armpit hurt. He tried to pitch in Chicago, but couldn’t extend, so he was shut down.

“With three days of rest here (in Milwaukee) and three days during the All-Star break, that gives him plenty of rest,” said manager Dusty Baker. “We’ll have him throw Thursday and see if he is OK or if we have to disable him and get help from Louisville.”

SPEAKING OF THE All-Star break, Baker isn’t wandering far from Milwaukee. He plans to go fishing on Sturgeon Bay in Dorr County, Wisconsin.

“Maybe I’ll run into Brett Favre,” said Baker. “Never met him, don’t know him, but he has always been one of my favorite quarterbacks.”

Baker also plans a visit to Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, where he’ll admire the ghost of Vince Lombardi, one of his all-time favorite sports figures.

“I’ll walleye fish on Monday, smallmouth on Tuesday, drive to Green Bay on Wednesday and check out Lambeau,” he said. “Vince is one of my favorite coaches and favorite people. I might go there and get some of that old Packer spirit of winning - put it in a glass or a cup and bring it back here. I’m psyched. Got my camera ready.”

FIRST, THOUGH, there was the matter of meeting the Brewers and C.C. Sabathia Sunday. The lineup was stacked with as many righthanders as Baker could find, with Ken Griffey Jr. and Jay Bruce taking a seat.

“Big game today,” he said. “A two-under .500 or or a four-under .500 day. We can start the second half two under or four under. And we have the ultimate challenge in C.C.

“I don’t have many lefthanders in there,” Baker added. “Lefthanders might get C.C., but chances aren’t that good. Giving Junior the day off, even though he has hit C.C. pretty good.

“C.C. and Dunn are buddies, so we’ll see who gets bragging rights right there,” Baker added. “Brandon Phillips and C.C. were teammates (in Cleveland), so there’s bragging rights challenge. Corey Patterson has hit him pretty good, although he hasn’t hit much lately.”

So why is Patterson playing?

“I figure if we’re going to beat him, it will be a low-scoring game and we have to have some good defense in there,” Baker explained.

Aruba, Jamaica, that’s where I wanna take ya. See ya all in a week.

Permalink | Comments (254) | Post your comment |

Comments

By wizard

July 22, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Yes, I pretty much agree with you, and most others on his lack of patience,etc.;however, I wonder, if put into that role, if he would focus better on pitches to hit. For example he seems to, at times, pick out pitches to hit to right, when he needs to get a hit. I think his free swinging style may be more a result of what he thinks he is supposed to do with his bat—due to hitting #4.Perhaps.

By Florida Buckeye

July 22, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

Wizard, just thought I’d try to add a little to the Phillips/lead off question you posed: The problems that I see with Phillips at leadoff are: lack of patience - I always see him swinging at first pitch fastballs, and trying to pull them - his OBP isn’t what I would want for a lead off, and here’s one of the intangibles of Phillips: I believe that his ego would get in the way. A lead off hitter is a starter, a spark, and Phillips personality seems to be a finisher/the big swing/the showman, and not the roll-player…thoughts?!?

By wizard

July 21, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

My lineup, at this point in the season, would be: Keppinger/Phillips/Votto/Dunn/Encarnacion/Bruce/Griffey/Ross

By wizard

July 21, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks for your input on Brandon. Interesting.It is why this blog is fun. Lots of intelligent folks on here.

By Nick W.

July 21, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

i agree with mike that phillips does not have the patience to be a lead off hitter and i wouldn’t want the reds to try and adjust his swing and mess his swing up i think he would be a great in the 3 hole but we all know who is in there and will never leave that spot..i think hairston could be a great leadoff hitter but he way to injury prone so i don’t trust that so the biggest thing we need is a leadoff hitter and we have needed that all year freel didn’t work out he is having surgery hairston has been to the dl twice hopper is out for the year and patterson shouldn’t be in baseball bruce is not a lead off hitter so y not give kepp a chance at leadoff he is starting to get his swing back and he is a great hitter..but just like this year were gonna go into next year needing a leadoff hitter and i think FA or trade is the best way to get a good leadoff guy..

By Matt

July 21, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Brarhopper, contrary to what you think, you don’t control me. I’ll comment whenever I want to and how many times I want to. The only thing that is “childish” is your constant effort to stir up trouble. You offer nothing constructive, only more of the same outrageous and nonsensical drivel that you always post. At least my opinions on the Reds make sense and have some semblance of reality associated with them.

By Mike-Cinci

July 21, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Wizard, thanks for the question regarding Phillips as a lead-off man. I could see him in the role but he would have to change his style. Right now he is a free swinger and not patient at the plate. He would have to take a few more pitches to become effective in the lead-off role. He has walked only 25 times and has a rather low .321 OBP. He certainly has the speed for the job. Personally I like him better as a number 3 hitter. He has good power and he should become an even better hitter over the next few years. Freel and Hairston won’t platoon as suggested by someone as they are both right hand hitters. As many of you realize Freel is not suited to lead-off as he K’s too often and has a Cory Patterson type of on base percentage history. Wizard is right, Phillips could lead-off but I think he is better used elsewhere in the line-up. That said, if Hairston is not the man the Reds will need to find someone over the winter. Hairston does have .398 OBP which is the best on the team. Like Keppinger, Phillips, Lincoln, and Hamilton/Volquez Jerry Hairston Jr. just might be another Krivsky gem of a pick-up.

By wizard

July 21, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Matt I agree with your point right now—I guess my thoughts were wandering to the day and time when Jay Bruce becomes a legitimate middle of the order hitter, and perhaps another player who isn’t so now—thinking, also that Dunn seems to have found his stroke, and could be a #4 hitter, at this time. I think Phillips would be dynamite as leadoff with the correct people hitting in the middle.

By Brarhopper

July 21, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Wizard specifically asks a question of Mike-Cinci and Mr. Baseball and look who just can’t stand it and HAS to butt in with his two cents worth. What is this, his 56th post out of the total of 245? Childlike.

By Matt

July 21, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

I believe that Brandon Phillips is more of a middle of the order kind of player than a leadoff hitter. That being said though, I think he could handle the role if the Reds gave it to him. He is a pure hitter. He hits the ball to all fields, and when he is not swinging for the fences, as he has been prone to do, he handles the bat very well. He has a very good combination of speed and power. I think in the Reds lineup however, he is best suited for the middle part of the order.

By Mark

July 21, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

I just can’t see Hairston being consistent enough to be that spark-plug at the top. Ideally, you could have him and Freel platoon in center, but they should have that this year with both hitting lead-off but now both remain HURT. I think the logical idea is to try and platoon them next year, flanked by Bruce and Dunn in the OF. I agree with the analysis of Kepp, but having Bruce batting lead-off takes everything away from the 2-hole in terms of hit and runs, etc. I don’t understand why everyone is still so down on EE, he is hitting well over .300 over the past month or so, and face it, everyone makes errors at some point. Plus, who else do you want to put there, move Kepp to third and have Gonzalez at SS (if he’s able to play next year and stay healthy). To me, thats too many injury-prone players, keep EE and let him develop. He is hitting his groove and has rasied his average 40 points in the past month. As for pitching, I don’t see how you can justify trading Harang. Bronson, maybe, but Harang has been the ace of this staff for the past few years. While maybe he is declining, he is still going to go out and give you a sub-4.50 ERA. His record does not reflect how well he pitched this year and everyone knows that. With all this ‘young nucleus’ talk, you would think the Reds are already planning 2 years down the road. I say they go out, find a servicable 4-5 starter (I’ll hold out hope for Fogg still) that can come in and more than anything teach the younger guys even more, preferably with playoff experience. This team is a piece or two away from taking it to the next level. Think of the Rays last year… young nucleus but tons of potential.. hmmm, Bruce, Votto, EE, Cueto, Volquez, Dunn, Phillips… One or two trades/signings and this team will be there

By wizard

July 21, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Without completely thinking through my question—I’d like to know what Mike-Cinci and Mr. Baseball think about Brandon Phillips as a leadoff man. Seems to me in reading your previous posts he has all you want, including power, and ability to hit to right field.I know with the talent available now, that may not be possible, but…

By Mike-Cinci

July 21, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball makes several excellent points. The Reds do have an opportunity over the next couple of weeks to get over 500. The schedule gives them a break. He made a very good observation on Keppinger. It brings up the importance of having a speedy runner batting ahead of Keppinger so Baker can put him in motion and take advantage of Keppinger’s hitting skills. Hairston was perfect in the lead-off role. The combination of Hairston/Keppinger at the top of the line-up was very effective. Maybe Hairston can play CF next year(and this year) and be the lead-off guy. If not, there is no one else on the current roster who can be effective in the role. The Reds will have to go outside the organization to find someone if Hairston is not the man. Hairston has 15 steals with 188 at bats so far and on a pace over a full season of 600 at bats to have 50 steals. Phillips has 20 steals and Patterson has 10. No one else is in doulbe figures. Hairston is an intriguing player for the Reds if he can stay healthy.

By Mr. Baseball

July 21, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Mike-Cinci consistently provides good observations. His two most recent posts throw a dash of realism into the Reds’ situation. As he notes, the free agent market does not look good this year, inclining the Reds to perhaps sign Dunn for next year. Who wants Pat Burrell in place of Adam Dunn? And he has consistently reminded us the Reds aren’t good enough to compete this year. He makes a good point. But, compete we must. So let’s see what the Reds can do with this soft spot in their schedule coming up the next couple weeks: 12 games against the Padres, Rockies, Astros, and Nationals. It is time to make hay while the sun shines. On another topic, frequent readers of this blog will know that Mr. Baseball often sings the praises of Jeff Keppinger. Kepp is a fundamentally sound baseball player, who plays smart and gets the most out of his abilities. He’s the prototypical #2 hitter, makes good contact, and in case you didn’t notice, plays pretty good defense at shortstop. Like Cal Ripken, you seldom see him make diving plays because he positions himself so well. You probably didn’t know that he has the best fielding percentage of any shortstop in the NL who has played as many innings at the position as he has (only 2 errors in 431 innings). But even Kepp has a weakness and it’s one that must be overcome for the Reds to get better. This weakness showed itself in the third inning of yesterday’s game with the Mets. With the Reds trailing 2-1 and Jay Bruce on first base with one out, Kepp grounded into a double play to kill the inning. Kepp leads all Reds regulars in GIDP, hitting into one every 31 at bats, compared to 1 in every 38 at bats for Brandon and 1 in 44 for Edwin, the next two highest among regulars players. Ironically, this happens because Kepp is such a good contact hitter — he puts the ball in play, often on the ground, leading to double plays. This should not be happening as much as it is. Dusty has to take better advantage of Kepp’s bat control and start putting a play on in these situations. Basically, any time Kepp comes to bat with a runner on first and less than two outs, the Reds should consider four options: 1) sacrifice bunt (but only with 0 outs); 2) bunt for a hit; 3) hit and run (does anyone do this any more?); and 4) straight steal. All of these aggressive plays would stay away from the double play, keep innings alive for the meat of the order, and allow Kepp to fully use his #2 skills to help the team.

By Matt

July 21, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

I Live in a dream world, Hilliard Dave? No, you’ve got it confused. I’m not the one who thinks the Reds have no talent. I’m not the one who thinks the Reds won’t win for a 100 years. I’m not the one who thinks that Baker and Junior are “cancers” and “albatrosses”. I’m not the one who thinks that Dunn is the biggest problem the Reds have. So, no, it wouldn’t be me with the “dream world” issues or mental problems. So, on to things that actually matter and that are worth talking about. The Reds, in my opinion, are still mentally not there. The culture of losing is still prevalent, as we saw yesterday. Winning teams, playoff teams, make the play that Encarnacion failed to make in the 10th inning. When the game is on the line, they come through. The Reds are almost there, but not quite. They have almost enough talent, but the mental side of the game needs work. Baker and Jocketty still have plenty of work left to do. Go Reds!!

By fan_from_afar

July 21, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Facts. Numbers. Truths. Untruths. Falsehoods. Truthiness. Here’s Griff’s numbers so far this year: avg: .236 HR:12 RBI:46 SB:0. How is it a “fact” that these are good numbers for an outfielder? Don’t get me wrong, I actually like Griffey (i can’t help it he seems like a good guy), but he is not the great player he once was. And in “fact” he is only an average outfielder right now - although his paycheck says differently.

By Mike-Cinci

July 21, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Sunday’s loss to the Mets again proves the Reds are just not good enough. They have some nice players but overall their talent is a bit less than the top teams. The bullpen has been very good. Phillips, Votto, Bruce, EE, Volquez, and Cueto show promise. They need at least one or two outfielders depending on the Dunn situation, a catcher, and I’d be willing to bet another starter or two. Teams never have enough pitching. It seems the Reds are always going to the bullpen in the 6th inning which means the starters rarely go deep into games. This has to improve because the bullpen can’t be perfect and it will eventually run down due to overwork.

By Florida Buckeye

July 21, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball, good point w/r to CP and the late inning outfield moves; ironic how yesterday, he pulls a big bat out, and replaces with CP; but then again, it wasn’t the bat that failed the Reds last night…

By Hilliard Dave

July 21, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

I’ve been catching up on these posts. And sure enough, there you are off in your little paranoid dream world again. Man, it truly appears that you have a mental problem.

By Matt

July 21, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

He also recorded a double. But by all accounts, a hard loss to take today. If this team could just get some momentum and a modest winning streak, they would be fine. They’d get over .500 and hopefully stay that way the rest of the year. But the beat rolls on today. A loss ripped from the jaws of victory. Back to 4 under .500 with the lowly Padres coming to town. As far as me saying what valid points are and aren’t, a 5 year old could determine that what the likes of Hubertucky, Wizard, Brarhopper and a few others say on this blog more often than not is simply false and outrageous. But if their defenders want to think that Griffey is a terrible player and a “cancer”, go ahead and think that. If you want to believe that Dusty Baker is a bad manager, go ahead and think it. If you want to think that Dunn is a terrible ballplayer and needs to be run out of town, go ahead and think it. Bask in your ignorance and don’t let me stand in the way. The numbers and facts however simply prove you wrong. It’s as simple as that.

By HuberTucky

July 20, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Sigh. Imagine my surprise. Tuned into the game top of 10th to see poor Bill Bray double screwed by terrible defense. Reds find yet another way to lose yet another game they could have and should have won. Glad I had other plans so as to not waste a day watching this team frustrate yet again. When are they gonna step up and play like the big money pros they are paid to be…on a consistent basis? And I see Mr. 3-Spot-For-Life managed to log in another two whiffs.

By James Bradley

July 20, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Let’s see, Huber Tucky,Wizard, Police Chief, AP Florida, jsc139, Dave, Brarhopper, Jerry, Stevec Ross, Dave Hilliard, Wally P., Coach, and someone referring to himself in the third person…all have told you to cool it one way or another. You call these the people who agree with you/ NOT!

By AP-FLORIDA

July 20, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

so now matt has the power to deem what a valid point is? boy are we in trouble! Why didn’t ross bat for bako in the 10th?

By AP-FLORIDA

July 20, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

so now matt has the power to deem what a valid point is? boy are we in trouble! Why didn’t ross bat for bako in the 10th?

By Police Chief (Revisited)

July 20, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

By Police Chief July 15, 2008 10:29 AM You are becoming a public nuisance. We don’t need, or want you to police our blog. We don’t need your childish corrections of all “errors” stated here.Errors as judged by you. Give it a rest.you have been told numerous times, by different individuals to “back off, disappear, come back again another time”.You have the most comments everyday on this blog.People don’t want to hear from one person ALL THE TIME! It is annoying.You are like a small child that won’t go away. You are ruining this blog with your stupid behavior. Your repeated childish gibberish is unwanted. It isn’t always the truth, as others see it. It is ALWAYS forced on them, however.You, also, do what you claim you don’t.You attack others directly, and indirectly{read your blogs}without fail, because their opinions don’t agree with yours. Policing again. I, and others, I am certain, are of the opinion that you probably have not done what you say you have because someone who would have done those things: would show more restraint, maturity, and discipline in regards to this blog, and others comments and beliefs. You do make it personal {read your blogs}when you describe others dislikes. You have not been appointed judge and jury of this blog.Many here don’t care what you think.Many think your comments are tantrum-like, child-like,not restrained, but personal and repeatedly uncalled for. To interject yourself into EVERY possible argument, which disagrees with your doctrine of how it should be, is child-like, absurd and annoying. Many people dislike Marty.However, because someone said something about him, Matt determines in his own mind, that he disagrees so must defend Marty’s honor. Matt is not judge and jury.Matt’s opinions have gotten child-like, and boring.Hello. If you were being this much of an a$$ on the battlefield, someone would shut you up permanently. Believe it.If I were being called girlish, by not just one, but many, I’d take the hint and correct some behavior.

By wizard

July 20, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Read police chief’s message again, clown!

By Matt

July 20, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

No, the “blabbering idiot” is the one who refers to himself in the third person. The “blabbering idiot” is the one who talks out of his butt and makes the most false, outrageous statements about a team he obviously knows nothing about.

By wizard

July 20, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

First time Griffey has tried to hit the ball to left in weeks—nice double.Must have decided not to try to pull the ball for once—nice to see.Also, made a nice catch in the fourth—acts like he is feeling better physically—showing more energy—running faster than usual—very welcome to these eyes.But then next time tries to pull, and strikes out again. Phillips: Outa here! Reds hitters could not bring Edinson out of the Volquez-Cueto coma-like trance which they both fall into occassionaly. I think the infrequent coma’s occur due to the bad tilt of the ballcap—creates an imbalance in the cranial area, causing pitches to go crookedly.Edinson is smiling in the dugout, when they relieved him—water on the brain obviously brought him out of the coma. Go Reds! I see when I’m not here the blabbering idiot is on the loose again!

By Mike-Cinci

July 20, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

The best looking position player free agents in 2009 are: Abreu, Burrell, Dunn in the outfield; Teixeira, Thome at 1B; Crede at 3B; Cabrera (White Sox) and Furcal at SS; Barajas, Estrada, Rodriquez, Varitek at catcher(an old group). (Matt Holiday is not a free agent. The Rockies have him signed to multi-year contract). It appears the Reds would be wise to sign Dunn who is only 28. There are no outfielders in the minors who are ready and the free agent pickings are slim. The Reds should focus on finding a catcher and a right hand hitting center fielder. I’m assuming Hairston is not a long term answer though he has been very good. If he keeps doing what he has done this year he would be just fine. It’s doubtful he will however.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Y-City Jim, that’s how jcs139, HT and Wizard do it. They talk nonsense, spread ridiculous falsehoods and untruths and then when you call them on it, they jump down your throat and try to make you out to be the bad guy. I think they are the “albatrosses” of this blog. How about that HR by Dunn? When he hits ‘em they stay hit.

By Y-City Jim

July 20, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

You’re right. I am intolerant of those who are purposely attempting to disrupt just for the sake of disruption. Just how many ID’s do you have on here?

By HuberTucky

July 20, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Go Reds! Matt is a punk. There ya go — baseball AND fact!

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 20, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Dear Facist Y-City Jim, Turn off your computer and take a nap. Maybe this is how you get your way at home, but some of us don’t need your crap. You have a sereious anger issue. Skip the posts you don’t want to read. Gads, what a jerk and control freak!

By Y-City Jim

July 20, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

All of you - SHUT UP!!! Either talk baseball or leave the rest of us alone.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

I don’t dissect the comments of every person on here that I disagree with. What your not getting is that it’s one thing to have an opinion about something. It’s another to spout mindless drivel and patently untrue, false things, which is what Hubertucky and Wizard do on a daily basis. An opinion is, according to dictionary.com, “a belief or judgment that rests on grounds insufficient to produce complete certainty”. An opinion is something up for debate. Saying the sky is green is not a valid opinion. Saying that Ken Griffey Jr. is a bad MLB player and is a “cancer” is not a valid opinion. Saying that Adam Dunn is a liability in left field is not a valid opinion. Those comments, and others that Hubtertucky and Wizard continually spout on here, are complete falsehoods that simply hold no water. That is what I have a problem with.

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 20, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Matt, you just refuse to “get” what a blog is all about. This is where people with diverse opinions meet and chat. And for you to take the time and effort to surgically dissect the comments of each person you disagree with — opinions, mind you — is nonsense and violates the very spirit of a blog. Consider that, please. I know you will just have to respond to this as all others, but maybe just try to just take it in and be silent for a change. :-)

By Matt

July 20, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

I don’t criticize everyone, I only criticize those who post untrue, ridiculous things. Saying that Griffey is an “albatross” or a “cancer” is untrue and outrageous. Saying that Dunn is a terrible outfielder is untrue and outrageous. Saying that Dusty Baker is a terrible, unfit manager is untrue and outrageous. The facts, numbers and everything else in between just simply do not support such claims, and being a true Reds fan, I will comment and challenge those claims every single time, and I encourage any other true Reds fan to do the same.

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 20, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Something seems wrong with you that your are absolutely compelled to comment on practically everything that others say here. For example, your latest statement, “so it isn’t like EVERYONE doesn’t see where I come from on here.” You shout “everyone” in all caps but nobody seems to have said “everyone” but you, and see, that’s the defensive position you’re taking. Perhaps it’s time to look in the mirror if you are even capable of an honest look, Matt. Seriously, you post too much, “talk” to much, and criticize others waaaaaaay too much. It’s childish, unattractive and seems needy.

By Mr. Baseball

July 20, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Florida Buckeye correctly points out that Dusty brought in Corey Patterson as a defensive switch in the ninth inning to replace Junior. Dusty has done this a couple times before, although such a move would have been unthinkable even a few months ago. Basically, this move is dictated by who made the the last (or most recent) out in the previous inning. In this case, Griffey made the last out and would be ninth in the batting order in the next inning, so with a five-run lead, he gets subbed out. Dunn would have hit second in the next inning so he stays in, just in case the Mets come back to tie or take the lead. It’s a good baseball move and not a bad use of Corey Patterson, by the way. Dusty is not saying that Griffey is a worse outfielder than Dunn, but he is saying that Griff has descended to about the same level. In the same situation, you will never see this move involving Jay Bruce.

By Y-City Jim

July 20, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

I wish this blog format would allow paragraphing and some simple html stuff. Regardless, it sure beats Gannett’s (Cincinnati.com) blog format. I wish Ross was starting every day.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

If I seem to think this is my blog, HT, Wizard, and their supporters seem to think that this is HT and Wizard’s blog. The truth is that I don’t think this is my blog. I simply am a Reds fan and happen to know a lot about the Reds, and I enjoy talking about Reds baseball. I am very passionate about the Reds, and I am very opinionated about my views on the Reds. I have little to no patience for someone talking flat-out nonsense about my team. It seems like more often than not, HT, Wizard, and a few others on this blog seem to be insistent upon posting simply falsehoods and flat out ignorance of the Reds on this blog. If I think they are wrong, then I’ll say so. If they think I’m wrong, they can say so. But I have had my share of supporters on this blog as well, so it isn’t like EVERYONE doesn’t see where I come from on here.

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 20, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

I see that Matt’s overly sensitive and pissy little posts are still with us. The lad seesm to think this is his blog. Note to Matt: Must you comment on everything? It’s an ongoing sign of insecurity.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

For anybody who is interested, here is the starting lineup for the Reds today: Jay Bruce CF Jeff Keppinger SS Ken Griffey Jr. RF Brandon Phillips 2B Adam Dunn LF Edwin Encarnacion 3B Joey Votto 1B Paul Bako C Edinson Volquez RHP (12-3, 2.29) vs. Mets RHP Mike Pelfrey (8-6, 3.64) Lets win three out of four!! Go Reds!!

By Shhhhhhh

July 20, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Shhhhhhh! And, she might go back to sleep.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I don’t suffer from anything, AP-Florida. It is amazing, spell-binding to me how people on here can sit here and support HT & Wizard with the outlandish, absurd comments that they make, and make me out to be the bad guy. It’s very simple. I don’t have time or patience for foolishness or nonsense, and that is what HT & Wizard are full of. Those two could say that the sun rises in the west and sets in the east and there would be someone on here defending them. Lord have mercy.

By Florida Buckeye

July 20, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Hey Did anyone notice that in the ninth, when Dusty pulled an outfielder for defensive purposes and put in CP, that he pulled Griff, instead of Dunn…Hmm, do ya think he might have noticed the lack of effort on a couple of important plays & ground outs earlier in the week? Also, one of the stats I pay attention to is ERA for a catcher: Basically it’s the ERA of the pitchers that they handle/per inning, and Ross’ numbers have been steadily coming down…so I agree with a previous post that he’s dead on with his pitch selection and situation awareness: Good Call!

By AP-FLORIDA

July 20, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

I do not have any real facts to support this statement, but from reading between the lines, I think matt suffers from “LITTLE MAN SYNDROM.” Go Reds and the Wizard & HT…

By Mr. Baseball

July 20, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball would be remiss if he did not take note of the outstanding job David Ross did behind the plate tonight. Ross coaxed a six inning gem out of Josh Fogg who turned in another gutsy performance. Fogg and Ross induced the Mets to hit into three double plays to escape from potential game-breaking rallies. Then in the sixth inning with two runners on and the game on the line, Fogg and Ross enticed Tatis into striking out to end the inning. In the seventh with the bases loaded, Ross steered Mike Lincoln past a couple of minefields (David Wright and Carlos Beltran) with 3-2 called strike outs on curve balls. Dusty, the master of the double switch, took notice. When Ross struck out to end the seventh and with Weathers coming in to pitch in the eighth, the double switch would usually be in order with Weathers batting eighth and Bako coming in to catch and bat ninth. But not this time. Dusty left Ross in the game, let Weathers bat ninth, and used Bako in the bottom of the eighth to pinch hit for Weathers. Dusty’s failure to use the double switch in the eighth when he otherwise would have, is a tribute to the job Ross was doing behind the plate handling the pitchers. Let’s give Dusty some props, too. He managed by his feel for the game on this one. A good example of not managing by the book. Sometimes the best double switch is the one you don’t make. Hey, this looked like a real ball game — good pitching, timely hitting, and the Reds win a game without the home run ball or Cordero. The wily wizard may be right, the Reds could take 3 out of 4 from the Mets if they can win behind Volquez tomorrow. But watch out, Pelfrey is one of the hottest pitchers in the league right now. He’s a ground ball machine, so the Reds will have to find the holes.

By Matt

July 20, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

What’s with certain people on here referring to themselves in a third-person basis?

By wizard

July 20, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

The Wizard asked on July 18, 2008@ 10:27 AM after we lost first game to Mets—“Painful loss. But, what if they win three out of four”? Go Reds!

By Matt

July 19, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Very nice win tonight for the Reds. Tomorrow’s game is key though? Will we be able to sustain the bit of momentum we have gained and win 3 out of 4 in this series, along with getting on a three game winning streak and being within two games of .500? With Volquez pitching, I have to like our chances. Let’s send old Mike Pelfrey and the Mets packin’ back to New York where they belong tomorrow with the Reds getting a big ‘W’!!

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Nice win tonight. Lincoln’s performance was outstanding!

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Now coaching 3rd base for Cincinnati - Tommy Chong. :)

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Dang, Sparky!!! That’ll heavily medicate the Reds faithful!

By Sparky

July 19, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Ol’ Toddy is baaaaad news. If we see Coffee warming up in the pen, a cig and a cuppa ain’t gonna do it…get out the maalox and the stash bag of quaaludes, zanax, valium, and that’s just for Dusty! Each fan will need a pint of Jack and a doobie.

By Matt

July 19, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Yeah, if Coffey is on the mound you better have a cup of coffee or a cigarette or both. He’ll keep you on the edge of your seat, but for all the wrong reasons.

By sparky

July 19, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

a.k.a a terrible pitcher. if talent is defined by having skills and not being able to use them, then i agree with you, y-city jim. regardless, we are so screwed with this loser back in the nati.

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Talent isn’t Coffey’s problem. He has talent. He just can’t put a pitch where it is supposed to go.

By Sparky

July 19, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Coffee?!! Oh my gawd, this is a HUGE mistake! This guy is a clueless whipping boy, a terrible pitcher. You can’t send a guy like him down and expect him to come back with talent he never had. We’re screwed.

By Sparky

July 19, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Coffee?!! Oh my gawd, this is a HUGE mistake! This guy is a clueless whipping boy, a terrible pitcher. You can’t send a guy like him down and expect him to come back with talent he never had. We’re screwed.

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Significant differences between Howard and Dunn include Dunn’s much better OBP and that Howard gets many more RISP opportunities than Dunn with the batters in front of him. None has an OBP below .337 and Utley’s is sitting at .376 (now that is Dunn-like). I certainly would like Larkin back for sentimental reasons but has he really done anything in Washington? He’s Bowden’s assistant and that is one crappy organization. Want to bet that Wayne Krivsky is the next GM in Washington after they axe Bowden (if he isn’t indicted on that Dominican Republic scandal?

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

One thing I do know—I agree with Paul Daugherty’s article in todays Enquirer. He writes that Mr. Larkin’s contract is up this year with the Nationals—and Needs to get back where he belongs—as a Cincinnati Red! I second that motion—in whatever capacity he wants to return—even short stop!

By Mike-Cinci

July 19, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

There seems to be agreement the Dunn decision is important. Is it possible Ryan Howard and Adam Dunn are the same player (sort of). Runs scored Dunn(49), Howard (63); HR’s Dunn (27), Howard (29); Walks Dunn(73), Howard (49); BA, Dunn(.227), Howard (.234); On Base % Dunn (.385), Howard (.325); RBI Dunn (60), Howard (85; K’s Dunn(101), Howard (130). Dunn and Howard are exactly the same age (28). Will the Phillies trade Howard? Will the Reds trade Dunn?

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Man, now I don’t know WHAT to believe! Both Mr. baseball and Y-city Jim make excellent points—not only do I have all of that to consider; but, now I am in deep depression with the news that Coffey is lurking—and Burton is gone!

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Bad news! Burton on the DL. Coffey is back. Contain your excitement.

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

At this point and time, Joey Votto is not a good 1B. Yes, he makes the occasional gem but more often he makes some truly awful plays especially on accepting low throws. While there is certainly no guarantee that Dunn will be great at 1B. I think he would be no worse than Votto. Votto would certainly be better than Dunn in LF because he would cover more ground and probably has a better arm, certainly a healthier one. How earnest were the Reds in pushing Dunn to be a 1B a few years back? Remember this organization has had a reputation of being pretty wishy-washy in personnel relations. As for surrounding Dunn with more contact hitters, they would be better served to get some on-base guys in front of him. Dunn gets nowhere near the RISP opportunities that the league’s top run producers do.

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Truly outstanding thoughts! Why can’t the Wizard think of these things?

By Mr. Baseball

July 19, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Wizard’s preference to switch Dunn to first base is not without merit. But Mr. Baseball might be more optimistic about Dunn moving to first base if he had embraced the idea more whole-heartedly a couple years ago when it was tried. There is a scenario where Dunn could stay with the Reds (in left field) and still be an asset to the team. As others have noted, his 40 HR, 100 RBI and 100 walks per year are nothing to sneeze at. But the Reds would need to surround him with more contact hitters like Keppinger. Right now, the Reds have too many players that strike out too much — which makes Dunn’s 160-190 strikeouts a year unsufferable. Also, Dusty’s efforts to switch Dunn out of the lineup in the late innings when the Reds are ahead is a good strategy to hide some of his defensive liabilities. Also, exclusive use of Dunn as a DH during the interleague series would do the same (a plan that will be more viable when Junior is gone). If the Reds keep Dunn, Mr. Baseball prefers keeping Votto at first and letting him reach his full potential there defensively. On the other hand, Mike-Cinci raises a good point that the Reds get two draft choices if they hold onto Dunn until season’s end. That allows them to delay the decision and sets a higher bar for any trades involving Dunn before the end of the season. Then if they choose to take the draft choices, they start rebuilding from there.

By Coach

July 19, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Matt better go back and read Police Chief again. I don’t see your complaints about the Wizard as ringing accurate at all. He seems pretty positive to me, except when you are around blabbering constantly.

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Y-City Jim: I have always liked Affeldt. I think from a starters standpoint they dissed him, almost as quickly as they did Fogg. I think he may have the best stuff on the team after Volquez.It seems it is merely location and control, which may be corrected, if given time. I hope they keep him, as well; and give him another shot at starting.

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball: As usual you present some very good points, which I tend to agree with. My point about Dunn and Votto switching {before I was once again, RUDELY interrupted}was if they decide to KEEP Dunn—that would be an option. I agree that Votto could be outstanding at first—he’s pretty darn good right now—in fact, my favorite player! I’m not certain he wouldn’t be just as good in the outfield, however.I like Dunn’s production, contrary to some who would put words in my mouth. I just think—if we keep him, we might be a better team, if he worked out at first—that’s all. But, I do consider your opinions very solid. Some people don’t deserve consideration!

By Matt

July 19, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Dave, contrary to what you may think, I haven’t lowered myself to name-calling. I simply call things as I see it. If it’s a spade, I call it a spade. The fact is that Wizard and Hubertucky have nothing of any redeemable quality to offer to this blog. Their posts are pretty much the same every time. They are either bashing Griffey or bashing Dunn, most of the time for no good reason. It’s constant negativity with no truth behind it at all. If I tell you that the sky is black, then I am ignorant on that subject. If I tell you that Adam Dunn is a horrible ballplayer who is a liability in left field, then I am ignorant on that subject. If I say that Ken Griffey Jr. is an “albatross” or a “cancer”, then I am ignorant on that subject. Why? Because the facts and the numbers simply do not support such outlandish statements. You can argue that hogwash until you are blue in the face, but in the end facts are facts and falsehoods are falsehoods, period. Something more debatable would be along the lines of, what should the Reds do to turn things around and field a winning team year after year? But Hubertucky and Wizard’s constant negative and false posts are not debatable, they are simply ignorant and false. And then when I or anyone confronts them on their ignorance, they get called names or subjected to personal attacks. Why? Because they don’t have anything to support their arguments with. They are fair weather “fans” who are only around for the good times so they can jump on the bandwagon. Every other time they are nowhere to be found.

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

I like the pitcher that Jeremy Affeldt has become. If he could be retained for a decent price I’d like to see him be a Red next year.

By Mike-Cinci

July 19, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Good analysis by Mr. Baseball. My guess is the Reds will stand pat and try to win next year with the current position players ex. Griffey. They will try to acquire a good right hand hitting center fielder in the off-season with some pop to put between Dunn and Bruce if they retain Dunn. Weathers and Affeldt could be traded this month if the Reds do not want to sign them for 2009. Cordero could get a good player or two from the Rays, Tigers, Braves, White Sox, or Dodgers due to injuries or a need to upgrade. I doubt Cordero will be traded if the Reds think they can compete in 2009. Fuentes(Rockies) and Marte(Pirates) are probably on the market. Jason Bay and Xavier Nady are also available from the “rebuilding” Pirates but they will want young, inexpensive players in return. The Mariners will trade anyone. The Reds decision on Dunn will say a lot about the future. If he leaves at season end the Reds get a couple of draft choices. The decision on whether he stays could be as simple as money if we can call that simple. It will be interesting to see what he is worth on the open market if it gets that far. If the Reds stand pat it would be nice to see them finish strong as some optimism will return to Redsland. Jocketty will be 2nd guessed no matter what he does.

By Brarhopper

July 19, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

How embarrassing — lost his job to Corey Patterson? “Reds outfielder Ryan Freel will have surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn tendon that attaches to the bottom of his right hamstring. Freel went on the disabled list on June 4 after he injured the hamstring. It’s unclear how long he will need to recover from the surgery. Freel batted .298 with six steals in 48 games, including 26 starts. He lost his starting job in center field to Corey Patterson during spring training. Freel makes $3 million this season and has a base salary of $4 million in 2009.”

By Dave

July 19, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Two days. Didn’t take long, did it? Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! “By Matt July 17, 2008 9:12 AM Dave, I am not lowering myself down to the name-calling level or anything like that anymore. It simply is not appropriate and quite frankly it is not dignified enough for this blog. Thanks anyway.”

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Matt - Posters can bash or praise any ball players they want.

By Matt

July 19, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Well, Wizard and Hubertucky, if you don’t want to be referred to as ignorant, then my best advice to you is to stop posting ignorant comments. The only thing “annoying” or “negative” on this blog is you guys’ constant criticism of Ken Griffey Jr. and Adam Dunn, no matter what. Dunn could hit 4 or 5 home runs in one game and make two dazzling plays in left field and you two would still be on here with your constant bashing. The only thing you two have to offer is criticism and negativity, and frankly I think everyone on here is tired of hearing it. There is no rational discussion possible with you two, because you quickly resort to name-calling and put downs to try to win your arguments, because the arguments themselves sure hold no water.

By Mr. Baseball

July 19, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball thinks there’s a good chance the Reds will be neither buyers or sellers at the trade deadline — at least not in a big way. There’s a good chance they could finish the month of July close to .500. If they do, that’s enough to keep hope alive for the wild card, but not enough to go out a rent a couple players to make a run. They certainly won’t have a fire sale. What the Reds do with Dunn will tell a lot about their future plans. They will have a chance to trade him if they want, but what value will they get in return? If the Reds keep Dunn through July, it means they will let Junior walk and try to add a solid right-handed bat for the outfield (Jason Bay? Xavier Nady?). If the Reds trade Dunn, they have clearly decided to go in another direction. They will still let Junior walk next year and have two outfield slots open. Mr. Baseball does not think switching Dunn and Votto is the long-term answer. It would basically be a strategy to hide Dunn’s defensive liability in left field. Votto has the tools to be a Gold Glove defensive first baseman, but probably no better than an average defensive leftfielder. Why should he be moved to a lesser position for him because Dunn is so inadequate in left? The best chance for the Reds to get fair value for Dunn is to trade with an AL team that needs a DH, or possibly Arizona who desparately needs left-handed hitting left fielder. Y-City Jim’s observation that Willy Mays batted third all season in his final year does not bode well for the Reds’ fortunes. But he was also not an everyday starter that year like Junior. Even so, Dusty is an old school manager who has trouble moving an aging veteran down in the order.

By HuberTucky

July 19, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

My new motto: Ignore the annoyance. I find it easier to enjoy this blog if I just skip reading posts by a certain negative know-it-all constant critic, constant poster whose continual refrain is calling anyone he disagrees with “ignorant.” Now how ignorant and childish is that?

By Y-City Jim

July 19, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

I think you could trade the entire Boston Red Sox team to the Dodgers and they would still lose. Mike - I agree that the Reds might be minor sellers if any of their “wares” are desirable. Matt - My rationale for a Dunn/Votto switch is that Dunn doesn’t have the arm any more. I guess he must have hurt it a couple years ago. I think Votto gives the team a little more range out there if LF and Dunn could really be a good 1B with some work on his part. Wizard and Matt - play nice.

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Hey Huber Tucky, I might need to borrow one of them 23 year old t-shirts of yours to stuff in the “rug”. Starting to get annoying around here again.

By Mike-Cinci

July 19, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

Will the Reds be sellers before the trading deadline or will they stand pat? I don’t think they will be buyers. They will not give up their best talent for the long shot chance of making the wild card. If they are sellers they could trade Harang,Arroyo, Cordero,Fogg,Dunn, Griffey,Weathers, Affeldt, Ross, Valentin,Patterson, and Freel for prospects. This is what Oakland did with Harden and Blanton and Cleveland did with Sabathia. My guess is the pitchers would get more than the hitters. Some of these guys would get nothing or the Reds would have to pay some team to take them. Cordero may be interesting to the Dodgers and a few other teams with a chance for the playoffs. Dunn is the biggest question mark. If the Reds trade him or let him go at season end they will need to find 2 outfielders to go with Bruce or an outfielder and first baseman if they move Votto to LF. Good players at 1B and OF who will really contribute are hard to find let alone afford.

By Matt

July 19, 2008 5:55 AM | Link to this

And the beat rolls on with the ignorant comments on here…

By Wizard

July 19, 2008 2:40 AM | Link to this

I gotta believe they are gonna paint those bases red, Huber Tucky, so the Dunner don’t trip on them anymore.

By Matt

July 19, 2008 2:22 AM | Link to this

Nice win by the Reds. I wouldn’t say that Griffey is hurting the team by being in the lineup but certainly batting third he is. He belongs farther down in the lineup, most definitely. He had a couple of solid ABs tonight, especially the one in the 4th inning. Right after he gets walked Phillips hits that blooper into right field to plate two. Excellent AB. Griff may be in the latter days of his career but he’s not done yet. As far as Dunn, no way should he be moved to first base. Absolutely, positively not. Votto is a very capable first baseman defensively and offensively, and he proves his worth on defense almost every single game. He gets it done. Adam Dunn is certainly no Gold Glove winner (nice framed poster tonight by the way to the first 20,000 fans) but he is adequate in left field. I would hardly call him a liability that’s for sure. The Reds need to sign him for the rest of his career and make him a life-long Red, just like Barry Larkin and Johnny Bench. He is a tremendous talent and should not leave this team. Great game tonight, now let’s keep it going and run off 6 or 7 in a row. We need that desperately. Go Reds!!

By HuberTucky

July 19, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

Much better (tonight). I really like what I’m seeing from the team offensively these last two games. THIS is the team I thought I was following this year. They are fun to watch and seem to be having more fun…as though someone flipped a switch. I know, don’t get myself too enthused because I might be let down. But still, even Thursday’s game had a lot of offensive passion. It’s just good to see. Now if they could light a match under Griffey… agree with Wizard, Steven Roth, and Y-City Jim re: Jr. is hurting the team batting 3rd.

By Y-City Jim

July 18, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

A few point to make. A nice rebound win tonight by the Reds. Arroyo continues his resurgence, which should make it easier to deal him. Bruce had a nice night at the plate. Hope it is a sign of things to come. Wizard - I could live with Dunn in LF if he still had the rifle arm but it’s not there anymore. Interesting thing about Griffey batting 3rd every night. I checked on Willie Mays’ spot in the order during his final season when he batted about .210. Guess what he batted 3rd all season long.

By Wizard

July 18, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Y-city Jim: I could not agree with you more. Every point you made here is dead on where I am, on this player. His move to first justifies keeping him, in my opinion; because, otherwise, he weakens the Reds defensively. Many doubles in the gap will, as a result, either be caught for an out, or held to a single{by a better fielder with better speed}—whereas, now they are not. I can live with his strikeouts, hoping they will improve, with his move to first base! Mike-Cinci :Griffey’s current performance should be embarrassing for him as well as, the Ballclub. If anyone, not just Griffey, but any HOF player was performing at his current level, I would expect no less from them—that they at least, move down in the lineup! At the very LEAST. One last point: if anyone saw him running to second base last night,to complete his double, there should be no further questions about whether, or not, he “dogs” it, when running to first base on “routine” plays.If he can do it{ sprint} last night, he should have been doing it each time at bat this entire year. Thanks to you both.

By Mike-Cinci

July 18, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Tough loss to Mets. Cordero pitched poorly twice. He gave up the lead when Wright hit the 2 run HR. With the game tied he then gave up 4 straight hits to lose the game. It was a very bad nignt for “Coco”. These things happen. Let’s hope they don’t happen very often. I guess that’s why Mariano Rivera is so good. It never seems to happen to him. George Grande lives in St. Louis and is really a Cardinals fan. It is OK to love your hometown team but he makes it obvious. It is tough to hear George call just about every player “a great hitter and a better man”. I’ve heard that from George ten thousand times about virtually every player who ever lived. He is an all-star name dropper. But you know the story. Junior is batting 3rd because he likes to bat in the first inning and he has had a great career. Apparently current performance is not a consideration.

By Y-City Jim

July 18, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Wizard - The Reds made a half-hearted attempt to move Dunn to 1B back when Casey had that shoulder injury. As soon as they ink him to a new contract, they need to close the deal with a 1B mitt for him.

By Wizard

July 18, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Hooray, someone agrees with me, finally. Thanks y-city Jim. Man, I’ve been saying Dunn to first for months! Thanks for agreeing.

By HuberTucky

July 18, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Must admit, I didn’t see every second of the game last night. But tell me, when Cueto started to melt down (and the announcers certaibly mentioned it), did Dick Pole go out and try to calm him down? I never saw Pole go out there. Seems a young guy like Cueto gets stuff in his head and gets frustrated and that’s when the coach or manager needs to go out and give him a chance to regain his balance and find his center. I thought that was part of coaches job.

By nick w.

July 18, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

wow really tough loss..i thought cueto pitched good except when he starts to get in a little trouble he gets really frustrated and makes a bad pitch like when delgado killed the ball he got really frustrated about the sun he needs to learn to talk walk around the mound and calm down..i thought we hit really good with risp and with 2 out..i thought the bullpen pitch great other then cordero affeldt struck out two when cueto went out and i thought affeldt should have been in the start of the 6th not cueto but w/e and weathers pitched good that pitch that he struck out i think easley with the fastball inside that tailed back in for a k it looked like the exact same pitch volquez has and then lincoln shut them down..and i when i saw wright come up with someone on i knew he was gonna hit one out i was thinking the same thing mr.baseball said every time he has blown a save it has either been when he pitched 3 days in a row and didn’t have any rest or too much rest and that is not a good closer..tough loss hopefully they can hit the same tonight and get a w

By Florida Buckeye

July 18, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Hal, I hope you had a great trip, you’re in good health and that you come back to us soon…

By Y-City Jim

July 18, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

Steve is correct but I don’t think Dunn finds the idea of being a DH very attractive though. Jocketty needs to sign him and tell him his future is at 1B. It should have been done years ago. If Scott Hatteberg could go through the ordeal he did to learn it so can Dunn. A 6’7” target might be easier for Phillips to hit with some of those crazy throws like last night and Sunday. Votto knows LF and can’t be any worse at it. Junior is hurting the team and should go to Baker to volunteer to move down in the batting order. The Reds are flawed in their fundamentals. Strange line-ups is an understatement.

By Steven Ross

July 18, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Matt: take a chill pill. I was merely suggesting for a different perspective on the state of the Reds, the Mets broadcasters were very candid. I watched both teams broadcast and I strongly suggest you do too. You might learn something. YOu really think Dunn will be here next season? I don’t. Keith Hernandez, former player and a good one at that, says Dunn’s better suited to being a DH. I agree. Griffey’s hurting us. I agree. Reds make stupid mistakes everytime we play them. I agree. Dusty throws out strange lineups. I agree.

By Wizard

July 18, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Griffey kills this team! Good offensive production, otherwise. Painful loss. But, what if they win three out of four?

By Matt

July 18, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Haha, good point, Y-City Jim. Cordero needs to get “juiced up”. Now for those who think I’m being serious, I was being sarcastic.

By Y-City Jim

July 18, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

I am inclined to agree, Mr. Baseball. Cordero needs regular work to be “on.” Matt, perhaps if Cordero got on the juice like Gagne was then he would be that automatic. Also, Dunn isn’t going to the AL or anywhere.

By Mr. Baseball

July 18, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball is starting to get the distinct impression that Cordero is one of those closers that will not be effective if he’s had too little rest or too much rest. Seems like he can’t pitch more than two days in a row or have more than two days off and be effective. Watch,if he’s called upon tonight, he will be lights out. Now, if the Reds could just arrange their save opportunities in a way to fit his schedule, they would be OK.

By Matt

July 18, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Does Keith Hernandez have some inside knowledge on Adam Dunn that nobody else has? He “will be traded to an AL team”? I’m sure that’s news to Jocketty and Baker, because I don’t believe Dunn will be going anywhere, at least not during the season. He may leave during the offseason, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him re-sign here. Also, if the Mets broadcasters knew so much about the Reds, did they know very much about their own team? Maybe they could answer why the Mets would fire a fine manager like Willie Randolph, or why the Mets will most likely slip again a the end of the year and miss the playoffs. It seems to me the Mets announcers should be worrying more about their own team than the Reds.

By Steven Ross

July 18, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Per last nights game, MLB gave the option of watching either home or away broadcast. I choose the Mets team of Gary Cohen and Keith Hernandez over Grande and Brantley. No comparasion. I like Jeff but have a tough time listen to George “Everthing’s Great” Grande. Hernandez told me more about the Reds in one game than Grande has in three months. Examples: Dunn will be traded to an AL team because he’s a DH. Griffey’s hurting more than helping. Everytime we play the Reds, they make silly mistakes. Strange lineup by Baker. I kept saying, no kidding! If you get a chance, watch their broadcast over ours. It’s much better.

By Matt

July 18, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

Cordero is a human being. He is going to fail every now and then. More often than not though he will come through. He is not Eric Gagne from a few years ago when he had like 60 straight saves or whatever. Terrible performance last night, but I’m sure if the Reds are in a save situation in the 9th inning today Cordero will be right back out there and he’ll get the job done.

By Y-City Jim

July 18, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

HT - I’m hoping that maybe Cordero’s problem was that he hadn’t thrown competitively since Sunday. To be in that position and lose the game makes me sick.

By HuberTucky

July 18, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Horrible miserable terrible and very very difficult loss. Especially to anything called New Yuck! And this — makes me wanna puke when Grande calls Cordero “Coco,” sounds like an exotic dancer. Now, perhaps the quote of the month, by Cordero himself, after the game: “My slider maybe wasn’t good enough,” Cordero said. “It was one of those nights. Whatever I threw to home plate was going to get hit.” This by the Reds ace closer, a guy who throws his entire team under the bus, gives up 6 straight hits, 4 earned runs, gets only ONE lousy out, and gets $8,625,000 this year! Okay guys. I’m ready to be attacked now and ready for to hear all the excuses.

By Kyle

July 18, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

Let me get this straight. Coco has blown 20% of his opportunities this year and he’s a good thing for the Reds? How much are we paying him to blow 20% of his save chances?

By Matt

July 17, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with you, Y-City Jim. This game should have been a win, in every facet. This team came through over and over offensively tonight, and neither Cueto or Cordero could hold it. I really thought that Cueto had turned the corner before tonight’s start, but maybe I was wrong on that. And the worst part is he started so well, with 5 straight strikeouts. This loss is a real tough one to swallow, for sure. Now it’s back to 5 games undeer, and we’ll win tomorrow and get back to 4 games under, then probably lose again to fall to 5 games under again. And Cordero, Lord have mercy, in that situation tonight you gotta get ‘er done. Horrific showing and he better do a gut check before his next time out on the mound.

By Y-City Jim

July 17, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

George Grande is like Undercover Brother after he gets domesticated by White She Devil.

By Y-City Jim

July 17, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

I could be more disappointed with Cordero than I am tonight. The Reds did all they could to put themselves in a position to win this game. The blame is lies with Cordero for failing to close and with Ceuto for failing to take advantage of generous offensive support.

By Todcon1

July 17, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or does George Grande get overly excited when the other team hits a homerun? There is just something completely annoying about that guy, I wish they would replace him.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Hubertucky, they should have put you out there in RF on that hit that Junior didn’t catch. Are you kidding me? I agree with you about the 0-4, but that ball was hit so hard it practically shook the ballpark. How about that hit by Valentin?? C-L-U-T-C-H.

By HuberTucky

July 17, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Pickin’ up right where we left off…our #3 batter is 0-fer-4 popping out, grounding out, leaving runners stranded, doing a whole lot o’ nuthin’ and playing his 2008 version of an outfielder who has very little hustle & watches outs land in front of him for hits. How much longer do we have to watch this dud?

By Matt

July 17, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

He was probably put on the 15-day DL retroactive to a certain date before the club actually announced it. That’s what happened with Hairston. He was put on the DL retroactive from Monday so he will be eligible to come back from the DL in 10 days.

By Mark in Sun Valley

July 17, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Anybody know how Cabrera gets to come back from the DL early? He went on the DL July 6th, so 15 says would be July 21st.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

That sure bites the big one as far as Hairston being on the DL. Hopefully, he makes a speedy recovery and comes back stronger than ever. And, hopefully we can win some games with him not in the lineup. If the Reds are going to make any noise this year (that includes having a winning season) the time for it is now. This is a 10 game, 11 day home-stand. Lets win at least 6 out of the 10 games, and lets start tonight against Santana and those Mets!!

By Reds Authority

July 17, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

BREAKING: Jerry Hairston has been placed on 15-day DL retroactive to Monday. Jolbert Cabrera has been reactivated from DL. Also, Bobby Livingston has been reactivated from 60-day DL and optioned to AA Chattanooga. REMEMBER: You heard it here, FIRST! —Reds Authority

By Lovetohearthemselvestalk

July 17, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Welcome back to your boring blog, Hal.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I’m sure that took the wind right out of it. Or, how about Dave Neihaus; “get out the rye bread and mustard Grandma, it’s grand salami time”…good stuff right there.

By Y-City Jim

July 17, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

While I think he must have been pretty good in his earlier days, Waite Hoyt was terrible in his later years on TV. I recall a game where George Foster hit a grand slam. Instead of getting psyched, Hoyt proceeds to give a definition of a grand slam.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

“Here’s your RICO starting lineup…” lol

By Roho Radio

July 17, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Looks like the adminstrator may have been sleeping when Dave posted his blog. Worst announcer ever IMO: George Grande. Jeff Brantley will be great once he stops talking like he’s a Top 40 music DJ. Seriously, he talked in normal tones on ESPN even with his southern drawl.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Thanks, nick w. and Y-City Jim.

By Y-City Jim

July 17, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Back off, Dave.

By Nick W.

July 17, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

i agree matt that was uncalled for dave..matt has as much right to write on this blog as anyone and u shouldn’t be talking ur the one on commenting at 2 in the morning so obvilisly u don’t have much of a life if u have nothing better to do then call someone a dildo at 2 am so give matt a break the guy is very opionated but he does make good points and he still writes on this blog everyday just like the rest of us and gets a lot more crap for it so u really don’t need to say that..

By Matt

July 17, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Dave, I am not lowering myself down to the name-calling level or anything like that anymore. It simply is not appropriate and quite frankly it is not dignified enough for this blog. Thanks anyway.

By Dave

July 17, 2008 2:05 AM | Link to this

Honestly Matt, Do you live on this blog? You really are about the biggest most boring dildo. Get a life or a girlfriend or something.

By Matt

July 17, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

The banter that Marty goes off on is pretty cool I think. I mean, what’s the guy supposed to do, sit there and do nothing but play-by-play? Not any word except for that? Marty’s style makes the broadcast interesting. Some folks on here seem a little harsh on the Hall of Famer. He hasn’t been broadcasting for the Reds for 30 some odd years because of his good looks.

By Jack

July 16, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Has anyone ever heard George Grand say the word Pirates? Every single time its the Bucko’s. Please just once say Pirates.

By Arnold

July 16, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

I was driving on a road trip this last week while the Reds were in Milwaukee so I had to catch the game on XM. Uecker is an outstanding announcer. It was so refreshing to have the broadcast focused on baseball. I like that Marty will call a player out on poor play, but his constant negativity, and all the insipid side banter is almost as bad as George Grande, and that’s saying something.

By Matt

July 16, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Haha. Good old George Grande. “Well you know the story on this guy”…for once I’d like whoever is announcing with him to ask, “what is the story on him, George?” Marty is a Hall of Famer and is great but I miss him and Joe together. They were a perfect team. Jeff Brantley is fine. I like that southern twang he has and his little phrases that he uses, haha. Pretty funny stuff. He’s entertaining. Chris Welsh is so-so, and Thom is fantastic as far as I’m concerned. By the way, I was honored to meet Marty and Thom for the first time at Redsfest in December. Good times.

By AP-FLORIDA

July 16, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

Boy are we bored or what?

By Y-City Jim

July 16, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

We need Al MIchaels back. He, Sculley, Uecker and Costas as the best in terms of baseball.

By Mike

July 16, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Try Milo Hamilton if you want Bad….But our Marty in his elder age has become vane, condecending, forgetful and redundant. Thom is using Dad’s liners now..such as saying…” If your’e ready now..here’s todays startinig line ups ” Betcha dad said..Hey don’t use that..that’s mine! I have used that 22,384 times straight now! ” George Grande has the most phoney pepsodent smile and the most redudant opening line…” Hi, Hello and welcome to Reds baseball, George Grande along with the crafty lefthander Chris Welch…” He has said it exactly that way for 16,387 time. Tim McCarver is a walking data base, Chris Berman needs a new writer.

By Nick W.

July 16, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

see i don’t mind marty he has been a great announcer for years but i agree thom can get a little excited and george grande is not that good..i do like “the cowboy” jeff brantley but he is way to mono-tone it could be the bottom the ninth baseload in game 7 of the world serier and someone hits a game winning homerun and he would sound the same as if it was a ground out to short in the first..

By Mike-Cinci

July 16, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

The most annoying broadcasters are: Billy Packer (an expert who knew more than the coaches and is now thankfully retired), Tony Kornheiser (irritating and clueless), Marty Brennaman(too full of himself, not very funny but he thinks he is, and very negative to give us the impression he tells it like it is), Thom Brennaman(screams when it is not necessary, his call of a ground out to end the 3rd inning can sometimes sound like it is the end of the world as we know it. Calm down Thom.), George Grande (you know the story.)

By Nick W.

July 16, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

the most annoying sports caster is by far bill packer who does college basketball when he gets all excited he starts to yell and u can’t under stand a word that he says i hate watching games when he is announcing cus sometimes u have no idea what he says.. and another one that u didn’t mention was tony Kornheiser when he does mnf i can not stand him he never says anything about the game just says these stupid jokes..and also the people that do the fox baseball pre-game are very annoying i don’t know any of there names but those three make the worst pre-game show in baseball..

By Florida Buckeye

July 16, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

I was at a local sports bar down here for the first three innings of the game, and all the regulars got into a very good discussion: WHO is the most annoying sports game announcer and why? Some of the responses were: Joe Theisman; Tim McCarver; Gregg Gumble; Chris Colinsworth; Marty Brenneman, and Thom; Chris Berman…As for me, my monies on Joe Theisman, and this is why: Before he was a Heisman canidate, his name was pronounced THEES man…then, he changed the pronunciation to THIGHSMan, to rhyme with Heisman. . that, and he’s an intolerable know-it-all, ha!

By Wizard

July 16, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

What a great exhibition of baseball in the All Star game. If you didn’t get chills seeing the old timers, and the new timers, well, I guess you never played this game. Russel Martin was outstanding!What a catcher.Thrilling night of baseball.

By Wizard

July 16, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Good observation Florida Buckeye!I thought it was a strike also. I’ve seen it happen to all of our pitchers—Weathers included. It is like the umpires are not willing to give us some respect. Maddux and Glavine always get those pitches, which are more than borderline, called in their favor.

By nick w

July 16, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

i agree with that matt except i wouldn’t be shocked if u see ross go to the marlins since they lost there catcher for the year and if they come out strong in the second half and are in contention they will be looking at ross and i don’t know how much we can get for ross but we all no flordia as one hell of a farm team cus they keep trading all there players away and still are a good team so hopefully we can get a young outfielder that can come up and play center..also has any one heard anything about freel or when he will be back..and uggla sure looked better then phillips last night ha!!

By Jack

July 16, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

I like Dunn for the most people here, but would not go much longer then 2-3 years. i just dont think we have anyone coming up and/or we could get that provides that much power. Y-City, good point about hairston. I am assuming that we would also have Nopper and Freel, or at least one of them. Catcher -would like to see someone knew, but would not be opposed to bringing back Ross on the cheap. 1st -Votto. 2nd -Phillips. SS-Kepp/Hairston/FA 3rd-Kepp/FA LF-Dunn. CF-combo/FA. RF-Bruce. I am done with EE. He has had every chance in the world to stand out and he has not. He will have a hot streak to make his numbers seem a little better, then he goes real cold. Catcher needs to be upgraded.

By Matt

July 16, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

If I’m the Reds I absolutely re-sign Adam Dunn. He is finally improved this year on defense, and his bat is always his biggest asset. 40 home runs, 100-plus RBI, and 100 walks per season just cannot be replaced; not very easily anyway. Yes, his batting average is not where you’d like it to be, but he is a legit power hitter and a thumper for the middle of the Reds lineup. I have seen clutch situation after clutch situation this year when Dunn has come through, and again, his defense is light years from where it used to be even a few years ago. I say lock Dunn up for the rest of his career. The Reds position-by-position next year will look like this in my estimate: C - Ross 1B - Votto 2B - B. Phillips 3B - Encarnacion SS - Keppinger LF - Dunn CF - Hairston (or a FA with power, speed, or both) RF - Bruce

By Mike-Cinci

July 16, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Here is my guess on what I think are sure things by position next year. 1B=Votto; 2B=Phillips; 3B=Encarnacion; SS=?? RF=Bruce; CF=??; LF=?? C=?? There are 2 left hand bats and 2 right hand bats. All 4 sure things are young. Do the Reds keep Dunn to fill LF?

By Matt

July 16, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

A guy like Alex Rios from Toronto might be a nice fit with the Reds.

By Y-City Jim

July 16, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Jack - Hairston’s durability just concerns me. The Reds cannot afford to take the risk that he can be there everyday CF. If they can sign him cheap then have him coming off the bench. As left handed as this team is they probably want to get two right handed bats.

By Mike

July 16, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

I will trade Joe Buck for George anyday..But. least we not forget….Tim McCarver will drive you crazy..he is like a babbling magpie…some one needs to tell him the meaning of concise!

By Matt

July 16, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Joe Buck does drone on and on. And isn’t he the same hack who said that he didn’t care too much for the game of baseball?

By Jack

July 16, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

Some quick thoughts. Starting rotation for the Mets, will it be Arroyo, Cueto..Volquez? Anyone know? I think if possible you sign Dunn, two or three years. We have nothing coming up in the next year or so who can take his place. Right handed bat is a must. That bat can be a third baseman, shortstop or centerfield (or rightfield I guess). Worst case, we play Hairston in center field.

By Mike-Cinci

July 16, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Phillips would have helped the NL in this game. Is it me or does it seem Joe Buck never stops talking? He goes on and on…

By Matt

July 16, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

There is absolutely no acceptable reason as to why Brandon Phillips was not an All-Star this year. His numbers speak for themselves. He was robbed of a Gold Glove last year, and he should be in the running for one this year as well. And he still can reach 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases again. He is one of the best talents to come through Cincinnati (and MLB for that matter) in years.

By Florida Buckeye

July 16, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

Was it just me, or was Volquez robbed of a third strike against Longoria? It seems to be a pattern among Red’s pitchers, to not have a close pitch go their way, and then they groove one in there, and whammy…trouble strikes…Good Game overall…and except for the overproducing, quite entertaining as well…

By HuberTucky

July 16, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this

Talk about ugly! Poor Dan Uggla… probably the worst All Star game anyone ever had. In 4 plate appearances, he struck out 3 time, hit into a double play, left 6 men on base AND made 3 errors! Too bad they don’t have a more expanded roster… coulda had Phillips take over at 2nd and perhaps the National League finally gets home field advantage. But it was all not to be. BTW — I still think it was a travesty that Dunn wasn’t in the home run derby.

By Wizard

July 15, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Tough break for Edinson. Can someone explain to me how pitchers leave Cincy and become Cy Young like? Dempster/Lohse. Also,although I saw improvement in his defense this year, I still wonder if Dunn could, and would play 1st base next spring. I know that isn’t popular with some; but does anyone agree with it? It seems to me it could improve our outfield defense, and provide a big target at first. I saw Valentin play 1st decently this year, and would think Dunn being a better athlete,could do as well, or better—making the Reds better defensively. Of course, moving Votto to left. This in no way disparages Votto’s play at first; although he does need to improve his play there.Curious to hear thoughts on this.

By Mike-Cinci

July 15, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

I agree with the most recent Y-City Jim, Wizard,and MAC comments. The Reds need a right handed bat and a center fielder. Homer needs another pitch and better location. This is not easy given the history of Tomko and Belisle. The decision on Dunn is critical. Should he stay or go? Let’s assume current ownership is committed to building a scouting department and a productive farm system and it gets done. Keeping the right players and acquiring the right pieces in the next year or two could make it interesting for several years. That would be fun. Given the Reds financial potential and limitations vs. the big markets it is very important for management to make smart player decisions. We need good players coming out of the minors that the Reds or other teams want. Will our #1 draft pick play in the minors this year? It would be nice if he did.

By Y-City Jim

July 15, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

I forgot that the number one thing the Reds need to do this off-season is resign Dunn.

By Y-City Jim

July 15, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

If this off-season, the Reds can find either a solid CF/RF, a solid catcher, some bench help especially in terms of RH bats, and some middle relief to replace Weathers, Majewski. Coffey, etc. then they could be decent next year.

By Wizard

July 15, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Agreed, MAC.The future looks good.

By MAC

July 15, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the Homer info. I’d agree he needs a 3rd pitch (change-up). It’s what has been missing from most Reds pitchers over the years. For some reason the Reds don’t teach it or emphasize it, but it’s clearly the pitch that has lead to Cueto’s, Volquez’s & Thomposn’s early success. Until he develops such a pitch, I’d like to see him cut his fastball in on LH and turn it over as well.

By Fan_from_afar

July 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

I was at the game on Sunday and I can’t remember exactly when, but after Bruce came into the game and was out at second base, he trotted towards the Cinci dugout toward third base and Bill Hall. I watched him jog right at Hall and I thought to myself, “Jay is going to run right into him! What is he doing???” Bill Hall stood in place, fixed on home plate and paying no attention to Bruce who I could see mention something to Hall and he jogged past him and gave Hall a quick pat on the behind. Hall quickly turned and motioned/waved with both hands for Bruce to move aside when he makes for the dugout. My question is… was there anything said by the announcers during this encounter? I’m just curious to know if my interpretation of the event (a rookie trying to be chummy with a vet and getting put in his place) is an accurate one. Is there history between Hall and Bruce? I did not have a chance to see the other two games of the weekend.

By Matt

July 15, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Good point on the HR Derby, Y-City Jim. And thanks for your previous post. I appreciate it.

By Y-City Jim

July 15, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

On the subject of HR Derby, I wish they would eliminate the final round. Maybe even just go with one round. They could then have more participants since it would take less time. Maybe even add a AL vs. NL component to it. I hate to see players such as Hamilton or others such as Junior in the past, have a monster first round then lose because of the final round. Sort of takes away from it.

By Matt

July 15, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

You know, in a perfect world, the Reds would have both Volquez and Hamilton. If only. I’ll tell you what though. What an amazing story for Josh Hamilton, and it continued last night at he Home Run Derby. To think that after all of his problems and drug addiction that almost left him 6 feet under, here he is finally fulfilling his potential. I say God bless him. And has there ever been a more perfect trade than Hamilton for Volquez? How great it has worked out for both teams.

By Y-City Jim

July 15, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Matt, it does work both ways. For the sake of the blog, be the bigger man and be the first to stop this. The rest will soon follow.

By Steve

July 15, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Hal left specific orders for us to play nice. We should respect his wishes. I wondered what was up with the briefcase as well. Maybe EV was hinting that Josh should move back to Cincy? Maybe it was CP’s locker items? Reds brass should look up Eddie Milner and see if he can still play. Bet he can hit .190.

By Matt

July 15, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

So apparently it doesn’t work both ways then. I can be called every name in the book, but I’m not allowed to defend myself. Is that what I’m supposed to “get”?

By Wizard

July 15, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Police Chief is correct, and so is Nick. Ignore the idiot.

By Wally P.

July 15, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Thank you Police Chief. Very well put. Agree with what you said. If he doesn’t get the message now, then he is hopeless. His personal attacks are what bother me the most, like you said, making everything personal. Matt, listen and learn. Let’s get back to baseball, huh?

By Nick W.

July 15, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

alright enough about matt who cares what he says just ignore him he wants everyone to talk about him he is loving that all we are doing is talking about him who cares..anyway does anyone no what was in the briefcase that volquez gave to hamilton cus espn didn’t really say anything and i didn’t hear anything about what was in it..

By Police Chief

July 15, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

You are becoming a public nuisance. We don’t need, or want you to police our blog. We don’t need your childish corrections of all “errors” stated here.Errors as judged by you. Give it a rest.you have been told numerous times, by different individuals to “back off, disappear, come back again another time”.You have the most comments everyday on this blog.People don’t want to hear from one person ALL THE TIME! It is annoying.You are like a small child that won’t go away. You are ruining this blog with your stupid behavior. Your repeated childish gibberish is unwanted. It isn’t always the truth, as others see it. It is ALWAYS forced on them, however.You, also, do what you claim you don’t.You attack others directly, and indirectly{read your blogs}without fail, because their opinions don’t agree with yours. Policing again. I, and others, I am certain, are of the opinion that you probably have not done what you say you have because someone who would have done those things: would show more restraint, maturity, and discipline in regards to this blog, and others comments and beliefs. You do make it personal {read your blogs}when you describe others dislikes. You have not been appointed judge and jury of this blog.Many here don’t care what you think.Many think your comments are tantrum-like, child-like,not restrained, but personal and repeatedly uncalled for. To interject yourself into EVERY possible argument, which disagrees with your doctrine of how it should be, is child-like, absurd and annoying. Many people dislike Marty.However, because someone said something about him, Matt determines in his own mind, that he disagrees so must defend Marty’s honor. Matt is not judge and jury.Matt’s opinions have gotten child-like, and boring.Hello. If you were being this much of an a$$ on the battlefield, someone would shut you up permanently. Believe it.If I were being called girlish, by not just one, but many, I’d take the hint and correct some behavior.

By Joe

July 15, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

How about the home run derby? The only thing that would top that would be for Volquez to strike out everyone he faces swinging.

By Y-City Jim

July 15, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Matt, just post about baseball and you will be okay. If it isn’t about baseball then don’t post it.

By Matt

July 15, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

I have asked this question numerous times and still have not received an answer. What have I done that I need to be “policed or blocked”? I wish someone would tell me. The only thing I know that I’ve done is state my opinion on anything involving Reds baseball. I’m really tired of being accused of being childish, or whatever other term being thrown at me. Why, according to some of you, do I have no right to post here? Some of you are quick to throw insults and put downs, but you can’t back them up with anything.

By Mike

July 15, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

In agreement with many..I agree that Marty/Brantley/Thom tend to wander off on nonsense that seems to go on and on. Marty’s lack of concentration seems to be more manifested this year as he misses counts, double switches,number of outs etc. probably due to babbling on with either of his partners or his grandkids abount anythinig from eating popcorn to the name of his cat. Last game..Brantley was scolded by the omnipitent one, when he said that and ERA of under 3 was attainable and highly respected today. Marty blasted him in his condescending way, raised his voice,and in no uncertain terms, told him that he was not in touch with todays game and that anything under 4.0 was more realistic. It was the tone of voice, almost anger, that Brantley even dare to make a statement about the game such as that. Forget the fact, Brantley was a pitcher and is ver astute with his views. After the scolding, Brantley muttered a..”OK” very lightly. I felt bad for Jeff when I heard it. But it seems to go on game after game.

By Dave Hilliard

July 15, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

I read this blog daily and have only posted a few times since April. Generally I enjoy the adult comments and exchange, but this Matt business is getting so girlish and out of hand that it’s taking away the pleasure and driving me away. It’s too bad this guy can’t be policed or blocked. Matt’s comments are like those of some defensive little girl with a mental imbalance. I’ll leave him to you guys because I’m outta here — he’s ruining Hal’s blog.

By Matt

July 15, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

Police Chief, how do I act like a child in my comments? I don’t think that I do, but I’d like to hear what you have to say about it. The only thing I try to do is share my views on the Reds and what I think about about all issues relating to that. I happen to be passionate about the Reds and am a big fan. I don’t attempt to make it personal with anyone unless they insult or demean me, and then I stand up for myself. I don’t see anything wrong with that.

By Police Chief

July 15, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Well, I guess we can all sleep better at night, knowing Matt will be protecting us! Better lock my doors. Perhaps, if you’d quit acting like a child in your comments—people wouldn’t be getting real tired of hearing from you!

By Matt

July 14, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

Jsc139@hotmail.com, it is a free country and I’ll speak if I want to on this blog. I am a veteran of the military, and have completed the police academy and am pursuing a law enforcement job right now. I’m not some 14 year old “kid” sitting at home that’s accomplished nothing in life, so you need to quit referring to me as such and you need to do it NOW. I’ll post my opinions and views on the Reds, as I have been doing, as many times as I want to, period. As far as the Reds broadcasting team, I think the Reds have a great broadcasting team, both on television and on radio. George Grande and Chris Welsh get a little annoying sometimes, but they’re not awful. And I think that Thom Brennaman and Jeff Brantley have done very well also. Especially Brantley, who as far as I know had no prior play-by-play experience before he was hired by the Reds. And, of course, Marty is superb. He is a class act in every way, and it’d be great to hear the Ol’ Lefthander one more time, God rest his soul.

By Wizard

July 14, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Yep, saw the finals only—Josh got tired.If I’d known Erin was on, I’d have watched it all!Damn! I agree on the third pitch for Homer.

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Homer needs a third pitch to go with the fastball-slider combo. So are you guys watching the HR Derby? Hamilton certainly put on a first round show. I hope he has enough to win it in the finals.

By Wizard

July 14, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Ha,ha,ha! You guys are funny! JSC139:Funniest. On Homer: What I saw as his biggest improvement was his change of speeds/a bit more movement/a great deal more speed on fastball—93/94, I believe they said.Of concern to me for his next outing{if there is one}is that too often the other night after working numerous 0-2 counts—he came back into the strike zone with the very next pitch. Fortunately this time he got away with them for the most part. Would like to see that corrected. Otherwise, he did very well.

By MAC

July 14, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

Well, I tried to steer it back toward baseball;-) I didn’t see the game, but it sounded like Homer pitched very well. To anyone who actually saw the game, did Homer look significantly better, and if so, what was he doing differently?

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 14, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Moderator: Please cut Matt off. He’s addicted to seeing his own words in print. Is there no limit to this kid’s ego? Matt: Shut up for awhile. You write more than McCoy!

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t mind if they replaced the entire Reds broadcasting team. The best broadcaster this year has been Jim Kelch because he actually did play-by-play rather than talking about irrelevant BS. Couple him with a good color person that doesn’t think the it’s cool and debonair to speak in an ultra-southern drawl. Maybe, it’s time to put a women in the position as long as she isn’t as obsessive about tanning as Jeff Piecoro.

By Mike-Cinci

July 14, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

At the risk of offending many I agree with Wizard on Marty. I loved his quote when he was in Chicago last week about the controversy over his remarks about Cubs fans earlier this season. Marty said “I walked 8 blocks in Chicago and nobody said anything bad to me”. Earth to Marty, there is not a person in Chicago who would recognize you on the street or have any idea who you are or what you do. This guy does have a very high opinion of himself. Some would recognize Thom from his days broadcasting the Cubs.

By Wizard

July 14, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

I agree not enough praise for Homer’s performance. I think part of the reason Marty and Jeff didn’t focus on it, is their propensity to get sidetracked on the stupid sideshows they participate in.The first night Weathers was in relief, I thought he got screwed on several close pitches—called balls. You could tell by Marty’s remarks that he hadn’t been paying close attention, when Weathers walked the hitter, as he was condescending about Weathers walking someone—when I thought they were close enough to be called strikes.I wish he and Jeff would pay closer attention to what is important—the game!

By Matt

July 14, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

The Reds should at least let Baker complete his contract (3 years) before making any move to replace him. In all honesty, this isn’t even Dusty Baker or Walt Jocketty’s team. They pretty much inherited this club. I think once they have a full offseason to make changes and to leave their fingerprint on this team, they will do so. I’ll say this about Baker; none of the players he has managed that has spoken publicly has anything bad to say about the man. They all sing his praises. Players that have played with him note his passion for the game and for winning. He is a winner. He has a winning attitude, and has won everywhere he has gone. He’s not the greatest manager in baseball history, but frankly, who else is there out there that is a better choice than Baker? I can think of a lot worse ones. Again, Baker does not manage strictly, 100% by the book. I think that is why he has had the success that he’s had. You could put a 15 year old kid in the dugout and have him manage just by the book. You get the sense that Dusty manages from the heart, and makes his decisions based on his senses, and what he feels is right for the team. He doesn’t have his nose stuck in a statistician’s book, and I think the best managers in the game are cut from the same cloth. The Reds are a few pieces short of going all the way. Again, give Jocketty/Baker a little time to assess this ball club and make the changes they see fit to make to turn this ball club into a winner. And to the person who told me to quit posting, no I won’t. I have just as much of a right to post here as anyone else. My posts may not be perfect, but at least I’m not referring to a Hall of Famer as a “cancer” and an “albatross”, or saying that a manager with all the accolades and accomplishments that Baker has to his credit is a terrible manager who should be fired. My posts are a lot more intelligent than that.

By MAC

July 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Hal, enjoy your time off! From the sound of it, Bailey pitched a hell of a game considering his previous efforts. He’s received a lot of flack when not pitching well; I’m not sure he received an equal amount of praise by the fans here or by Hal? Likewise, Marty & Cowboy mentioned little more than Bailey’s velocity being up and a pretty good job of him staying ahead of the hitters. There was very little said about his breaking pitch or a change-up if any? What about it folks; was there more bite on the breaking pitch, did he display a change-up and how was he locating his pitches?

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

I wish Keppinger had the arm to play RF then if Gonzalez comes back he can slide in at SS. As much as I wish Hairston could be our CF I fear he is too fragile to be an everyday player. We lived though eight years of that with Junior and I don’t want to go there again. Hairston could be an important part of building a bench that the Reds could rely on. That sure isn’t there this year.

By Mike-Cinci

July 14, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Mark: Good points. I just don’t see anyone trading for Arroyo with his salary. The OF and catching will be a challenge. I’d stick with EE and Votto and hope they develop. Gonzalez is signed for next year but I like Hairston and Keppinger better. Hairston could play CF. Over the last 2 months he is the best lead-off hitter I can remember on the Reds. Freel is signed too but I think most folks don’t see him as an everyday player. Cory will be gone. I don’t see Hopper in their long term plans. It will be interesting.

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

The MRI indicates that Hairston has a mild hamstring pull. Re-evaulation on Thursday.

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Patterson, like any hitter, should be up there to drive the ball. To do that a hitter has to be somewhat selective in what to swing at. It seems he simply wants to make contact. Result - fly ball outs. I think people are too hard on David Weathers. He has done the job most of the time and doesn’t complain. He feels worse about yesterday’s loss than any of us do. He shouldn’t have been out for a second inning of work yesterday. As for Arroyo, he will be more attractive now for a team in a pennant race. Desperation makes some GM’s less rational. The Reds have to keep Dunn and find one more outfielder over the off-season to replace Junior. Hairston and Freel are too injury prone to rely on. I wouldn’t mind seeing the Reds spend some money for that void but I think the pickings will be slim.

By Mark

July 14, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Arroyo get moved in the off-season. Think about the trades this team has made to acquire pitching help… You will have Homer Bailey, Daryl Thompson, Matt Maloney, and a handful of others fighting for 2 spots in next years rotation if Arroyo is shipped (Harang, Cueto, Volquez the leave-overs)… I do think outfield will be a bit of a challenge. They CANNOT keep CP, but how does Freel come back? What about Hopper and when he will be ready? Do they keep Hariston around to play center everyday? The infield is more concrete, even with Gonzelez not coming back. Kepp and Hariston have been solid at short, EE is starting to hit like he should (can he avoid the slow starts?), and Votto is going to be just fine at first. Catcher will remain a huge question mark until they develop someone from within (Mesaraco is still 3-4 years out at least), or go out and try and find a solid free agent. They should have some money to go out and grab some players assuming Dusty doesn’t convince them to hold on to CP and some of his other holdovers from his Cubs days. Hopefully experience pays off in the long-run, because they have a great core of young players which should keep the team competitive for a long time if they develop.

By Mike-Cinci

July 14, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

I’d give Dusty the rest of this season and next to see if he can make something out of the Reds. Last year the Reds were 14 below 500 at the All-Star break. This year they are only 4 under. The Reds have to stop firing GM’s and managers and give them a chance to do something. Jocketty and Baker will have a chance this month and over the winter to make changes. I worry about the quality of the young players in the Reds minor league system. There is little in the way of near term help. Will we keep Dunn? With Bruce in RF who will play LF and CF if Dunn is gone? Will EE and Votto develop into top line players or are they no better than what we see today? Will the Reds put Gonzalez back at SS next year? Where do we find a catcher? Can Harang and Arroyo produce to justify their salaries? Are Volquez and Cueto for real? Should the Reds stand pat, keep what they have and try to add a catcher and center fielder next year? Do the Reds rebuild, do they tinker and add some needed parts, or do they stay with what they have expecting improvement with experience? We will soon find out.

By Jerry

July 14, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Matt, I have counted ten posts by you on this blog today, so far. ENOUGH! Give it a rest. If you don’t have something new to contribute don’t! I think we all know how you feel about everything and everyone, I for one am sick of your childish jabbering! I will not read another of your posts. You are ruining it for the rest of us.

By Mike

July 14, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Tom..about Thom sounding like his Dad..he even said yesterday….’ If your’e ready now… lets check today’s starting line ups”..Dad says that everyday.. just like..today’s attendance is 41, 238. for todays..titanic struggle..(.obligatory pause) that 41,238..He has’t done that yet…but he has said like Dad does 10 times a game…”There’s no question about that!” I guess that’s OK..

By bill

July 14, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

I agree with tom about Thom Brenaman. He got his job only because his dad was in the business. He says lots of the same stuff his dad says! That ain’t good either.

By D8Nken

July 14, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

First off, I am in no way a fan of Corey Patterson. However, Dusty did him no favors yesterday. He had not started a game in a month and then gets a start against on of the toughest left-handers in the league. Even though I don’t think Corey has any business on this team, I felt he got a bad deal yesterday. I blame Dusty for that.

By tom

July 14, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Thom Brenaman is as bad as it gets. On Sunday Homer Bailey was rolling along but allowed a baserunner in the sixth inning. The camera was on Dusty Baker. Was he going to go to the bullpen? He stayed in the dugout and Thom said, “I like this move!” A second later Baker headed to mound to get his pitcher and Thom said, “I like this move too!” That is as bad as it gets! Compliment every move a manager or player makes, regardless.

By HuberTucky

July 14, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

The real problem with CP is the Reds (on Baker’s authority) gave this zero (who was sitting at home twiddling his thumbs) an outlandish $3.5 mil offer. Huh? Nobody was interested in him so the Reds make an absurd offer like this? I wonder why, since he can’t hit and flails at horrible pitches and shows absolutely no discipline at the plate, why he doesn’t try bunting more often? The answer appears to be that he is simply incompetent at 50% of his job — offense. Perhaps he should go keep Mike Stanton company. He is truly the flipside of Hairston. I wish Hair was getting CP’s paycheck. man are we gonna miss Hair. You know what that means…more Corey!

By Mark

July 14, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

The problem with CP is that he tries to do more than he can. Think of when he was first with the Cubs and he tried to be a power-hitter. Now, he should be trying to put the ball on the ground and use his speed to his advantage, instead, it seems like every other at-bat is a lazy fly ball or strikeout. As for Weathers, he has been consistent over the past 3 years, you can’t blame him for Dusty making him pitch 3 straight games (and try to go 2 innings last night). Why not bring in a rested Majewski, or Cordero from the start of that inning, especially knowing you weren’t going to see CC anymore. I would no longer question the players desire to win, but rather the manager making the right decisions. No RP should be trying to go 2 innings in his 3rd straight game, thats just plain dumb.

By Roho Radio

July 14, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

First post after about a month of reading this blog. It’s entertaining reading since I never get to watch Reds games on TV. Stupid Dish Network….but my wife likes it, so what you’re gonna do? Anyway, so what has inspired me to chime in? 1) I went to a Reds game and saw an absolutely lifeless baseball team last month. But what really shocks me, is that this team may have a shot at the playoffs! Only 4 games under .500. It felt more like 14 to be frank. Maybe they can pull their heads out and get this done. 2) On to Dusty Baker…………You guys and Hal are my sources of info. When I read about his managerial decisions, I can only shake my head because you guys make total sense—most of the time! Even Bengals beat writer, Chick Ludwig, has chimed in on his blog with “Dusty Doubleday strikes out again”. Matt, I’m not want to get in on the bashing parade, but what do you like so much about Dusty? Please don’t say it’s the intangibles….you already stated you have no idea what those are…but you’re sure he has them????? Are you sure that other players would say his successes and accolades were not just dumb luck? Did you survey them first so you can back up your point? In general, I like your opinions….you’re a big fan. Stick to the opinions, not “pretty sure” statements to back up your points and these guys might leave you alone. I look forward to my next break in the work day…….peace and Go Reds!

By Michael in Monterey, CA

July 14, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Release Weathers NOW!!

By Y-City Jim

July 14, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Batting practice for Corey Patterson should consist of him standing at the plate and only looking at pitches. He needs to learn “read” what is coming to the plate. Also, how did Patterson suddenly get so stupid on the bases. He had 45 and 37 stolen bases the last two season respectfully and only got caught 9 times each season.

By Matt

July 14, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

That’s a good point, Mike. Even myself, a Dusty Baker supporter all the way, cannot understand what is so great in Dusty Baker’s eyes about Corey Patterson. His swing is atrocious, he has next to no plate discipline, and is a liability on the bases. The only redeeming quality I see for Patterson is his defense. That’s the one part of his game that is good. But everything else is pathetic, and he should be the first transaction the Reds make once this season is over, if not sooner. And that transaction should be his unconditional release.

By Mike

July 14, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Everyone has an opinion about Baker. Some good and some bad. But he has one enigma that fans, players, radio & TV, and even Hal..can’t explain and has said so…..there is but 2 words a .191 player named Corey Patterson who is like a dandelion in your lawn..he just keeps getting starts and playing time and won’t go away. Yesterday’s game was a prime example. This is but ONE why fans are not enamored with Baker.

By Shawnee Copas

July 14, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Let’s face it. We’re in one of those eras where there just aren’t that many good managers. Baker is no worse than many others running ballclubs right now.

By Matt

July 14, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Dusty Baker has done pretty well with the “kids” here in Cincinnati. He knew what the Reds had to work with and took the job anyway. I read an article not long ago on ESPN about the Reds’ plethora of young players being one of the main reasons Dusty chose to accept the Reds offer for him to be their field manager. Baker manages according to his senses and what feels right to him, not according to a stats book or strictly by the book. If all it took to manage a big league ball club was to do it by the book no matter what, anybody could manage a major league team. Dusty Baker has the certain intangibles (I’m not quite sure of what they are, but it seems like he has them) to be able to be a successful big league manager. His successes and accolades aren’t just dumb luck or because Baker wears the lucky number 12, I’m pretty sure of that. I’m also pretty sure if you asked the players he has managed over the years, they’d agree with you.

By Mark in Sun Valley

July 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Sparky used to say there were 50 games you were going to win no matter what you do, and 50 games you will lose no matter what you do. Of the other 62 games, he felt his decisions affected 5-10 games total. Baker acts like he plays percentages, left/righty match-ups, and quotes pitcher vs batter statistic that Hal has shown were wrong to back up his decisions. I almost wish he would admit he plays hunches rather than acting like he has a cohesive strategy. His theories frequently make it harder for the team to win, but the Reds have won several games despite his puzzling use of relief pitchers and gaffs that go against baseball common sense. Having Bailey swing away with one out and your best hitter on deck is moronic. Sunday’s line-up did not bother me, even to the point of playing Patterson, and I hate CP. But if he is on the team, you have to play him to try and get him productive. Bench players need occasional starts to be sharp, and regulars need rest. The idea of giving young players (Bruce,Votto)4 days off in a row when they have never played a full year in the longer major league season made sense, as well as giving Griffey 4 days to rest his aging bones. BTW, if Hairston hurt his elbow in the first and Baker KNEW he could not swing and could only bunt as one of his quotes suggested, WHY did he still leave him in the game. An elbow is not a hammy, but letting someone play who is injured to that degree is inviting disaster.

By Steven Ross

July 14, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Patterson, Bako, Griffey, Dusty, and Weathers. ‘Nuf said.

By Mike

July 14, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

You hear a lot about Baker’s managerial accomplishments…to some it means he has excelled beyond approach. To others, he is an easy going,” one of the guys type ” that smiles and says…” Hey..we’ll get em next time..don’t worry.” His complacency & propensity to “fix it if ain’t broke” and his Little League approach has become foremost in most fans thoughts. Sometimes, coaches and managers simply win despite themselves. They usually have tremendous talent and great atheletes on thier teams and these talents overcome the manager or coach who seemingly wins despite his mistakes and is viewed as not being very good at what he does. But the talent and skills of his team pull him through. It is not his knowledge of the game, his strategy or even filling out a line up card. And then there is thing called Luck as well. This is true from Little League to the pros. Some guys just win..

By Jack

July 14, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Matt, I am with you, somewhat, in regards to Griffey, but highly disagree with you about Dusty. He may or may not be a good manager, but he is not a good manager for this team, a young team. This is a team that needs to be coached by a young fiery manager…who after taking them close, would need to be fired and replaced by someone like…Dusty.

By Matt

July 14, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Actually, I thought that was a very impressive AB by Ross with the bases loaded and nobody out. A good job of getting the ball to the outfield and scoring the run. As far as Bailey, no way he should have been swinging right there, but I can see why he was. The infielders were coming in very hard and fast and the thought process must have been that Bailey could hit a hard grounder through the infield. He hit a hard grounder alright, but right at somebody. Tough luck. As far as Baker, I think the reason why he frustrates and confuses a lot of people is that he doesn’t manage strictly by the book. He’s not a statistician, and he doesn’t pretend to be. But hey, it’s tough to argue with success. He has won everywhere he goes, and maybe he won’t win here this year, but the Reds WILL win with Dusty Baker. My opinion is the Reds will have a winning season this year. By winning I mean above .500, by the way. Quite frankly, with the way the Reds played in the first half, a 46-50 record and 7 games back in the Wild Card race isn’t too shabby.

By Richard

July 14, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Bases loaded no outs. Score one run. Bases still loaded. Score no runs. How many times has this happened? They have to hold the record for leaving runners on base. They just can’t seem to play good solid small ball.

By donb51

July 14, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

Hal, Why can’t we just put the best people on the field every day without over analyzing everything? Griffey should have been in there. Oh, Hal, I am visiting a daughter in New York and went to Shea Stadium to see the Mets vs the Rockies. The Mets won their ninth in a row. It was my first time at Shea and I expected a low-rent operation based on your blogs about Shea. Happily, Shea Stadium was awesome, the fans great, and the employees very friendly and helpful. Maybe you should just cover the games there from the Mezzanine level? Please have fun on your vacation and come back ready to make some suggestions to Dusty that he will listen to.

By AP-FLORIDA

July 14, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this

Rusty is to blame, but not to the nth degree as some do. I am not a Baker fan, and he has done a decent job, but there are so many moves he makes or does not make, that defy logic. I still feel that he is not the one for this team, but 4 unfer 500 is decent for the way these guys have played…I vote for HT and Matt in a caged grudge match..HT do not let him drag you to his level…..Rest up and GO REDS!!!!!

By Gary Maloy Jr

July 14, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

HT & Matt - take it outside and leave us alone. Please!! …. As I see it, the Reds have one problem. I won’t mention names, but his initials are Corey Patterson. The guy has nothing to do in the big leagues. I can’t understand him (a lefty) starting ahead of either Bruce or Griffey. Baker isn’t the problem; the Baker-bashers intrigue me. Regardless of what Dusty does, these people bash, trash and lash (out at) him. What, exactly, has Homer Bailey done to deserve the manager’s confidence. Does he deserve (given his track record) to stay in the game in that situation? We lost that game when Burton strained his oblique in Chicago. (Now, I can see some of you proclaiming this also being Dusty’s fault. At least by those of you who say that he ruins pitchers in Chicago…{smile})

By Mike-Cinci

July 13, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Mike: Good obsevation on the line-up. Playing Cory over Votto was a poor choice. All of that said Dusty has done a pretty good job with this outfit. Who would have predicted Harang with a 3-11 record, Arroyo mostly struggling, no clear #5 starter, and Junior hitting .235 that the Reds would be only 4 under 500 and 6 games out of the wild card? Other than Hairston, Lincoln and Burton who has surprised on the up-side? When you think about it Dusty has done OK with players who have not played as well as we hoped. Dusty’s not the problem. He needs a few better players. Torre, Leyland, Girardi, Cox have better talent and they are doing a “worse” job than Dusty. Each of them has from $20 million to $150 million more payroll than Baker. Spending that money with their records would really be frustrating.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Great post, Y-City Jim. After the way the road trip started, 3-3 is nothing to be upset about. I really thought we had the sweep nailed down though. Tough loss today, but of course, every loss is tough. It’s looking like an exciting second half of the season coming up!! I’ll be down there this Friday vs. the Mets!!

By HuberTucky

July 13, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

I would venture to say that if a certain someone is so tired of reading the opinions of everyone he disagrees with (which appears to be the majority) then bow out, bud. Your childish think-skinned defensive behavior and name-calling ain’t needed here…we men don’t like it, in fact, we;ve outgrown it. You’ll see (maybe someday).

By Y-City Jim

July 13, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Tough loss today but a 3-3 road trip is nothing to complain about. It was a pleasure to see Homer Bailey pitch one of his best games as a MLB pitcher. If he adds a third pitch to his arsenal then he will be a force along with Volquez and Cueto. Rest up, Reds. Come back ready to treat the fans to some entertaining baseball.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

I am respectful of people on this blog, Wizard. I am here to talk about Reds baseball, not engage in petty name-calling. I have been called plenty of names and insulted a great deal on here, but I continue to assert my opinions and views on the Reds, in contrast to the supreme ignorance posted here by the likes of Hubertucky, Mike-Cinci, brarhopper and others. I treat folks with respect, but when I am insulted and called names, I will defend myself, period.

By Wizard

July 13, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Excellent point Mike!

By Wizard

July 13, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

You are delusional! Your third sentence is a lie—go back and read your posts!

By Mike

July 13, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Aside from pulling Baily..the idea was today according to Baker..to load with 6 right handed bats to combat Sabathia. Good idea..if ya got em. So, he pulls Votto,Bruce & Jr. Andy Phillips playing for Votto at 1B & hitting well below Mendoza did go 1-3,Now..double switch time in the 6th inning..He.wacks Bailey in favor or Bray, but puts Votto back at first replacing Phillips ( a right handed batter ) who did have a double (1-3). Question..if you are going to come in with a left handed bat anyway ( Votto ) to replace Phillips (right handed ) at 1st base..Why not leave Phillips alone at 1st base..and replace the anemic Patterson in Center with Griffey ( who came in a little later anyway.) Move Griffey to Right, Bruce back to Center. The stacked right handed line up with 6 righties in theory was Ok..But Baker’s brain lock of playing Patterson (.194), a left handed batter versus a strong lefty in Sabathia borders on incompetence and /or nepotism.

By Wizard

July 13, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

If YOU want respect—GIVE it!

By Matt

July 13, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

I post my opinions about everything Reds related. Just because you don’t like it doesn’t mean I don’t have a right to post it. As far as me “attacking” anyone else, it is only when I am insulted or attacked beforehand. I don’t just lay back and take being referred to as a boy, or being personally insulted. If you think (as Hubertucky, brarhopper and others do) that Dusty Baker is horrible, that Ken Griffey Jr. is the creature from the black lagoon, and that the Reds have no talent, then you are ignorant in your opinion and view. I will counter those ridiculous claims with what I and most of every other Reds fan believes to be the truth on those issues, period. Your tired of reading my “sht”, and I’m tired of reading Hubertucky, Mike-Cinci, Wizard and brarhopper’s “sht”.

By jsc139@hotmail.com

July 13, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

I’ll just bet ya that HT has forgotten more about baseball than Matt boy knows. Reading the posts it sure sounds that way. All Matt seems to do is rant on about what others say on this blog and he adds very little substance, mainly just attacks. He’s very boring. If he’s a 23 year old man then please act like a man, even if just to fake it! Tired of reading your sh*t.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

Maybe there are some medications that can treat your complete and utter ignorance of MLB and the Cincinnati Reds.

By HuberTucky

July 13, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

M, there ae medications that can treat your paranoia.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

While your post isn’t worthy of a response, Hubertucky, I’ll say this. Just because you don’t agree with my posts doesn’t give you a right to insult me or try to take away my manhood. I’m a 23 year old man, and I’m no boy. So if your going to talk to me or about me, I’d appreciate it if you referred to me by my name (Matt) and to refrain from insulting me. We all know that in your view Griffey is a talentless sociopath, Baker is a horrible manger, and that the Reds have zero talent on their ball club. You are wrong in your ignorance, but what makes it bad is that you are proud of it.

By HuberTucky

July 13, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Man, even after agreeing with Hal about growing up and stopping the carping and the criticizing of other people’s posts, it sure didn’t take long for a certain 23 year-old boy to revert to the S.O.S.

By Wizard

July 13, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Today: Not enough talent/too many injuries/too many chokes-failures! Great job by Homer! I hope the next outing when he gets hitters 0-2, he doesn’t come back with the next pitch in the stike zone—he did that often today, but got away with it. Correct was someone in saying Votto needs to improve his defense. He is my favorite hitter, however.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

I’ll tell you what, Dusty Baker just can’t catch a break from some of our experts here on this blog. First, he leaves pitchers in too long. Now, he takes them out too soon. That was absolutely the right move that he made to pull Bailey from the game. Bray was the one who couldn’t get it done. Don’t pin it on Dusty because it’s not his fault. Also, those who are calling for Dusty to be fired shouldn’t even be posting. The guy is the best manager this team has had since Jack McKeon. He has won everywhere he has gone. If you want Dusty fired so bad, who should replace him? Another no-name guy that will work for peanuts? Please. Dusty Baker is a great manager and the Reds should hold on to him for as long as possible. The only real fault I have with him is his decision to keep sticking with Corey Patterson. He has no business wearing a major league uniform. He is pathetic. A disappointing loss today, but hey, still a 3-3 road trip and we’re not out of it yet. I’m looking forward to an exciting second half. It will be fun.

By Mike-Cinci

July 13, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Losing Hairston is tough. He clearly has been the spark on this team. He brings speed and energy. What a wonderful run he has had. He has hit .400 as the lead-off hitter. The big disappontment today was the failure of Bray to do his job. He walked Fielder and then gave up the hit to Hart. Dusty should have pulled him after the walk to Fielder and brought in Lincoln to face the right hand hitting Hart. I’ll defend Dusty taking out Homer Bailey. He had thrown 97 pitches which may be the most he has thrown in any game this year. Everyone has worried about Dusty over using young pitchers. I think he did the right thing here. His players have to execute however and Bill Bray did not. Joey Votto needs to get better defensively. This is an eventful All-Star break. Will Harang, Burton, and Hairston be able to come back? I sure hope so. Cory Patterson looks lost. I would have started Hairston in CF. Let Phillips play RF and leave Votto at 1B. Patterson does not have a chance against Sabathia or anyone else for that matter.

By BIRDIE41

July 13, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

If Patterson is still on the Reds roster after the All Star break then all of us fans should stay away from the Reds games, it is as simple as that! And if they really want to improve and set up a chance for next year Dusty has to be FIRED!

By rlg

July 13, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Bailey pitched today with some guts and some very good velocity BUT more important, he mixed in his “other” pitches so they couldn’t just sit on the fastball (which got up to 94 most of the time). The Reds lost because they again couldn’t come up with the clutch hit. Yes, they did get two sacrifice flies but with a pitcher like Sabathia, when you have him on the ropes, he have to take advantage. I agree with all others before me, why Dusty plays Patterson is beyond me. I have not seen so many pathetic/anemic swings (except the ones by Griffey also today). The other reason they lost is having to pitch Weathers three days in a row and two innings straight today. This is where they miss Burton (hope he’s not injured for long). This is also where someone like a Gary Majewski should have been able to be called on to keep the game tied but unfortunately, every time he is brought in, it is like gasoline being added to the fire. I would strongly consider bringing up a couple young guns like Roenicke from Louisville for the second half. Finally, we must figure out how to beat left handed pitchers. Hairston being out of the line up for any extended timeframe will not help that cause.

By HuberTucky

July 13, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Game summary: Patterson sucked; Bailey didn’t.

By Kyle

July 13, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Pin this loss on Dusty. What stupid mismanagement of the pitchers. Bring in situational lefty only to not bring in Lincoln. And then to stick with Weathers, the WORST pitcher in the bullpen. Oh well, don’t get your hopes up Reds fans, Dusty’s still manager and we lost our lead off man.

By sarasotasteve

July 13, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Hal, any word on the status of negotiations with 1st round pick Yonder Alonzo?

By BIRDIE41

July 13, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

What is Dusty thinking? Removing Bailey when he did destroys all the confidence that Homer had built up today with his good pitching!Dusty just doe not get it,has no idea how to handle pitchers,Just ask the Cubs. Also how can he sit Bruce Votto,Jr and play Patterson? What do we have to do to get rid of Patterson and send Dusty right along with him??All Star time would be a good time to rid this team of both of them!!!

By Jake

July 13, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Corey Patterson, offensively, does not deserve to be on a Major League Roster. His value over a replacement player (VORP) is negative, meaning any AAA player would perform than him…. by alot. It is baffling how Dusty justifies playing this bum. He is, offensively, one of the 5 worst outfielders in the MLB right now. He is 5th from the bottom in average, last in on-base pct, 14th from bottom in SLG and 6th from bottom in OPS. He is good defensively but not nearly good enough to offset his atrocious offensive numbers.

By Mark in Sun Valley

July 13, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

JINX! As I remember, you wrote praises for Keppinger just before his kneecap broke. Now Hairston goes down after being given the “play him every day” treatment. I love ya Hal, but please leave that bad karma in Aruba…

By AP-FLORIDA

July 13, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Homer should hit C C when he bats!!!!!

By AP-FLORIDA

July 13, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Great catch by JHJ in first, and A Phillips just doubled. 2 for rusty…..so far!

By Steve

July 13, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

It makes just as much sense to say “With Homer Bailey pitching we’re going to need to score some runs, so don’t worry about the best defense in there.” I agree with Mr. Baseball in general about Andy Phillips. He can be valuable and he needs to play. BUT, is starting him against CC Sabathia the way to do that? AND Dusty has made it clear that today’s game is extremely important, so not the day to give Phillips his “keep him sharp” AB. I’ve got my broom out, though. Enjoy your vacation, Hal, you deserve it.

By Matt

July 13, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Well as horrible as some of you make Dusty out to be, his logic and way off doing things sure has worked out for him. His accolades and numbers speak for themselves. He didn’t win 3 Manager of the Year Awards because he is a dummy. I don’t think today’s lineup is THAT bad. I would have preferred to see Griffey play, but if there’s one thing Patterson can do it’s go get ‘em in the outfield. He plays pretty solid defense. Hopefully he can give us a couple solid swings today too. The key is Homer Bailey. If he can be better than he has been so far and we catch Sabathia on a rare off day, it could be a sweeeeep today. Get the brooms ready Reds fans!!

By Brarhopper

July 13, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Amen, Steve. Today’s lineup is an absolute disgrace and a friggin’ joke. Baker is playing by the numbers? Which numbers would those be? They look like my lucky (Not!) lottery picks! What about Vottos ave. against lefties? Removing his .294 and replacing it with .067 of Phillips is absurd. Benching Griffey (who has a strong history against Sabathia) and playing Mr. .194 LEFTY Patterson is ludicrous! This manager is already on a fishing trip…his mind is like a bucket of worms! And all this against Sabathia! On paper, this is insanity!

By Mr. Baseball

July 13, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Starting Andy Phillips is a good idea. He has played so little that the stats don’t mean much right now. He’s only started one game all year and needs at-bats if he’s going to be effective as a bench player. Mr. Baseball would have preferred he play in right field and let Valentin start at first base. But Dusty’s logic for starting Patterson instead is not all bad. For the Reds to win against C.C., it’s likely to be a low-scoring game and outfield defense might come into play. Let’s give Dusty a pass on this one.

By Wizard

July 13, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Can’t understand this mgr. Well, if Homer gets in trouble and we use lots of pitchers—this way we have some sticks coming off the bench to pinch hit.

By HuberTucky

July 13, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

I am absolutely baffled by Baker’s logic. So he’s playing his lucky charm Corey Patterson, eh? He’s a lefty batter w/a .194 batting average. Is THIS stacking the line up with righties? And if Griffey has done well against Sabathia, why bench him and play Patterson? This man’s logic totally escapes me at times. Somebody clue me in…there are so many smart people on this blog, so help me out here. (See, I’m being civil!)

By Steve F

July 13, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Have a great time Hal and get some rest.

By nllspc

July 13, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Only problem I can complain about from my armchair manager’s seat is that I would’ve like to have seen Valentin on 1st instead of Phillips. Hal, any educated guesses or theories as to a possible diagnosis to Burton’s “ow”. Probably the only reason it hasn’t been brought up in the comments is the TV talking heads said they were resting his arm because of the amount of innings pitched before the break.

By Steve

July 13, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Today’s lineup is a disgrace. Andy Phillips is batting .067 vs. LHP in 15 AB this year, and he’s (a) playing ahead of Votto who is batting .294 vs. LHP, and (b) is batting 6th in the lineup. Sigh. I had wondered quite a bit about Burton, and was amazed that I couldn’t find anything written about it by anyone (including the beat writers) for a few days.
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