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Is it towel-tossing time yet?

By Hal McCoy | Monday, August 4, 2008, 10:44 PM

What should the Cincinnati Reds do? Is it towel-tossing time? Should they keep trying to win games or should they experiment with lineups and positions?

Maybe they should try Brandon Phillips at shortstop? Maybe they should try Joey Votto in left field? Maybe they should transfer the franchise to Nashville or Spokane? You know, a fresh start?

I’m kidding, I’m kidding.

They are sputtering on three cylinders, spinning their wheels in the muck, their tongues hanging as they chase Pittsburgh and Houston in the National League Central.

Never mind Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Louis. Those three teams are distant cousins in faraway domains.

That doesn’t faze Cincinnati Reds manager Dusty Baker, doesn’t make him want to give up the ghost of 2008 and think about 2009.

“Never quit. Never say die. Never,” he said before Monday’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Despite losing eight of the previous nine that included three straight to the pathetic Washington Nationals, the Reds showed some spunk by stopping the Brewers, 6-3, behind Bronson Arroyo’s pitching and hitting.

Arroyo held the second-place Brewers to one run and four hits over six innings and drove in the game’s first runs with a two-run double in the fourth.

Asked if it isn’t about time to think about next year and tinker with things, Baker said, “Not for me. Most of the guys who are pretty close to being major-league players are here already and have been most of the year. It isn’t like we have 10 prospects at Triple-A who are ready to take a job up here.

“I always want to win, no matter who I put out there,” he added. “It has been only a few seasons that I went into September and it didn’t mean anything,” Baker added. “And it’s only August.

“In our division, a lot can turn around in a hurry,” he added. “If you get hot, man, I’ve seen it. People think I’m the eternal optimist, but I can be that because I’ve seen that and done that.

“You try to finish as high as you can finish,” he said. “These are primo times for somebody. When you are playing inside your division the last two months as much as we are, well, it might as well be us.”

That is talk from high in a steeple, an unlikely scenario, but for one night the Reds seemed interested and dedicated to winning a game.

“It has been a struggle,” he said. “But you keep fighting and you keep struggling. You don’t look back. You look forward. Keep the spirits high.”

Looking only one day back, the Reds are now 1-0.

Jeff Keppinger opened the bottom of the first with a walk, but the Reds didn’t have another base runner until Jolbert Cabrera broke up Manny Parra’s no-hit thoughts with a one-out single in the fifth.

Parra then walked Jay Bruce and David Ross to fill the bases and Arroyo banged a two-run double into the left field corner. Joey Votto pulled a two-run single to right and Parra’s no-hitter was now a 4-0 Reds’ lead.

Arroyo has four hits in his last six at-bats and said with a smile, “I came in on an off day with one of my buddies and I changed my stance a little bit hitting in the cage, messing around. I was joking around and I said I was going to try it and it has been working.

“It’s always luck when we (pitchers) get hits, but I’m feeling good at the plate,” he said. “I’m crouching a little more and widened my stance to see if I could stay back on breaking stuff.”

Spoken like a true Pete Rose.

Arroyo was nicked for a run in the sixth, but Bruce got two back in the bottom half.

Dropped to seventh in the order to protect him from the lefthanded Parra, Bruce drove his 10th homer the opposite way over the left field wall for a 6-1 lead.

“When you are lefthanded and hit a home run to left field off a lefthander, that means you’re staying on the pitch, not pulling off,” said Baker. “He hit a tough pitch.”

Bruce smiled when it was mentioned he was dropped from third to seventh on this night because Parra might have been too tough.

“Dusty has no evidence as to why he shouldn’t do that, but I know that I’ll have no problems with lefties soon enough,” he said. “You have to respect his decision. It’s logical for right now until I show him otherwise. I will. It’s just a matter of time.”

After Parra left the game in the seventh, he and his first baseman, Prince Fielder, engaged in a brief dugout shoving match when Parra was walking toward the tunnel to leave and Fielder didn’t like Parra leaving the scene.

“That’s our first win since Ken Griffey Jr. was traded and it is always a shock to a team when a guy who has been here a long time gets traded,” said Baker.

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Comments

By うつ病

September 21, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

はい。

By Matt

August 7, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Yes, this season has been a tough one. I had hopes for at least a winning season, if not a playoff berth. Especially when you factor in the signing if Cordero this offseason as the closer, after as bad as the bullpen was last year. Things appeared to be on the up and up. But this team never really was built for October. Patterson starting out as an everyday player? Not on a playoff team. The situation with Hatteberg and Votto at 1B. That was settled fairly quickly, but not fast enough. The Reds should have went with Votto right out of the gate, especially after what he did late last year after being called up from Triple A. Those are just a couple of things. But I am confident that next season, with the maturity of the young players (Votto, Bruce), and what will hopefully be a big offseason spent filling the team’s holes, the Reds will be winners in ‘09. The Reds, with the right decisions and direction, are not that far away.

By Hilliard Dave

August 7, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

The benefit of taking in a game at GABP is you know you won’t have to hear Geo Grande. ha ha ha. Seriously though, I think your last sentence answers your initial question, Mike. Yes, there are die-hard fans and then those who just go for the experience or they had free tickets from a friend at work. How many of these are repeat offenders, I wonder? Looking around the stands lately, there are just tons of empty seats. The new park novelty has worn off for most of us and it’s down to a core of hardliners who show up to see baseball. Even marginal baseball, it seems. I’ll still go to a game if the tickets are free, but gas and parking and the absurd price of concessions encourage me to just stay home and watch them lose on the tube and listen to Marty’s growing tone of disgust.

By Mike

August 7, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Question..yesterdays attendance was 26,000+,the day before 24,000 Why are people driving hours to see these guys? They pay $7 for a brownie or $8.75 for a hamburger, all while watching a last place hapless team. Some say, it for the “game experience”. Or it could be they are driving to see Encarnacion and Patterson play. Tonight’s attendance will probably top 30,000 because as I blog, there are 10,000 women out front to get thier free pink hat that will be embarrasing to wear!

By HuberTucky

August 7, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

I totally agree. I mean, how much more can we learn about Patterson and Bako? We need all we need to know about these two duds. Hopefully and most certainly they are not part of this team’s future. Plus, the Reds are 17 games out (stick a fork in this turkey, it’s done!). What possible reason is there NOT to bring up young talent for an audition? Yes, I too will always watch and follow the Reds — have all my life. But 2008 is an exercise in watching them invest new ways to lose. I’ve just never seen so many errors and base runnung gaffs! And TERRIBLE patience at the plate. It’s just a matter of how much I yell out loud or mumble during the games that varies. Right now, I’m so disgusted I spend the whole game channel surfing, checking back in to see how badly my team is behaving. God, what a dreary season so far. I’m just so greatful for a remote.

By Steven Ross

August 7, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

There are some sardonic plus clever retorts today. Nice job all! I’ve noticed a common theme: fans have thrown in the towel. Getting swept by the Nats put the cap on everything I already knew—-this team is done. I’ll still tune in to see Bruce and Votto though. I’m with all of you who say bring up the kids and let them play. I’d rather watch Dickerson, Hannigan, Maloney, et al instead of Bako and Patterson. Sheesh.

By jeff

August 7, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Things to do: Cut Bako-Call up Hannigan Send down Patterson call up dickerson When Harang comes back, trade fogg through waivers and let Bailey keep pitching. Septmeber= bring up Thompson, Maloney, Roenicke and Valakia to give them a taste. PS. Go to the reds website and look at the picture of Homer (His eyes are looking at his release and not the plate, then compare that to the other pitchers, paging useless Dick Pole, Paging Dick pole)

By jeff

August 7, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

It is 100% time to throw in the towel. One thing before I get started, Go to the Reds site and look at homer’s picture and see how he is looking up in the air instead of towards the plate. All the other pictures of pitchers shows them focusing on the plate. I have seen little adjustments like this help tremendously. Ok so anyways Dusty is a moron and to be honest he hasnt proven one thing to this fan base. McKannin did a better job with less and for that matter I would like to see Jockety do more. There are two triple A players who deserve to be here and that is Hannigan and Dickerson. Both these players are on the 40 man. Wouldnt it make sense to cut Bako and send Patterson down. And whether he is 0-6 or 0-20 Bailey needs to pitch up here. If they send him down and let Fogg continue we really have to wonder what the heck they are thinking. And for that matter when Thompson/Maloney is better lets see him in Spetmeber. this is all about planning for 2009 and beyond If Dunn isnt going to be here then move someone there to get used to him not being in the lineup. This has been my argument from day one is that Dusty wasn’t the right man for this job. He is used to a veteran team and not young rebuilding teams. The good thing is that this team isnt that far off.

By jeff

August 7, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

It is 100% time to throw in the towel. One thing before I get started, Go to the Reds site and look at homer’s picture and see how he is looking up in the air instead of towards the plate. All the other pictures of pitchers shows them focusing on the plate. I have seen little adjustments like this help tremendously. Ok so anyways Dusty is a moron and to be honest he hasnt proven one thing to this fan base. McKannin did a better job with less and for that matter I would like to see Jockety do more. There are two triple A players who deserve to be here and that is Hannigan and Dickerson. Both these players are on the 40 man. Wouldnt it make sense to cut Bako and send Patterson down. And whether he is 0-6 or 0-20 Bailey needs to pitch up here. If they send him down and let Fogg continue we really have to wonder what the heck they are thinking. And for that matter when Thompson/Maloney is better lets see him in Spetmeber. this is all about planning for 2009 and beyond If Dunn isnt going to be here then move someone there to get used to him not being in the lineup. This has been my argument from day one is that Dusty wasn’t the right man for this job. He is used to a veteran team and not young rebuilding teams. The good thing is that this team isnt that far off.

By fan_from_afar

August 7, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Definitely time to throw in the towel. Let’s face it, if football season started the first week of August, most of us would’ve thrown in the towel weeks ago. As for me, I’m gonna stop watching Reds games for the rest of the season and keep an eye on the Brewers. In many ways, they remind me of what the Reds COULD be in the next year or two. They are a small-market team who has a relatively new stadium, a newer owner, good young players that they developed through their own system like Braun and Fielder, guys a few years older who are solid producers (Bill Hall) and they made some good moves to get some more experienced players even before they picked up Sabathia (like Suppan for one - who may not be great but is often good enough). Their whole process really started to show two years ago, and it wasn’t always pretty but anyone paying serious attention could tell what they were trying to do. Perhaps in another two years, our Reds will have a similar look? It certainly would be nice! =)

By jsc139

August 7, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Hey Steve, c’mon now…they’re only 17 games out and it’s only August 7th. There’s plenty of time for the Reds pitchers to find magic through the mater tutelage of the awesome Dick Pole, and for attitudes to snap back and do a 180 under the brilliant leadership of world-renowned motivational speaker Dusty Baker, and for bats to mysteriously awaken under the guidance of .270 lifetime batter Brook Jacoby. Remember, miracles DO happen! Just not for this sad sack Cincy team, not in the past 10 years & not now.

By Steven Ross

August 7, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

By jsc139: Hal sick? Yeah, he probably had a heart attack reading his blog. More likely sick of covering the sad-sack Reds. We’ll finish 25 games out of first. We’re all so proud. Get get ‘um Dusty. Where the hell is Bako and Patterson?

By Brarhopper

August 7, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Buuuudddddy, now Wizards jes tryin ta be nice. What really happen was while ridin around in circles, I got all dizzy and the one of my trainin wheels snapped and I dumped that Harley right there in the Huber K-Mart parkin lot. I’m still trapped, but I got my WiFi laptop and my cell so I’m textin all the tweens and playin vid games. Bored in Huber parkin lot. Why don’t HuberTucky come and save me?

By jsc139

August 7, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Hal sick? Yeah, he probably had a heart attack reading his blog.

By wizard

August 7, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Well now, Cait, me and Brarhopper dunn got real tired a sittin’ out here n this parkin’ lot. We dunn what cha said, an come on out cheer—but Cait, these skeeters got real bad in the middle of the night, so’s Brar got this here idea ta ride around in circles in the lot and that worked fer awhile, till we runned outer gas—and, heretiz mornin’, wouldja believe it? Nobady ain’t showed up yet!

By Florida Buckeye

August 7, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Hal, I hope all is well with your health, and it’s nothing more than a little nausea from reading the childish back and forth that’s been cluttering up your blog of late: Take care and we all hope to hear from you soon!

By michael

August 7, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

Bailey had decent stuff? He got rocked again, please call it like it is. I think Bailey still has a chance to develop into a good Pitcher, but only if we get a Pitching Coach and a Legit Catcher. I think those are areas that need to be addressed. I have to wonder what Cueto, Thompson, and Bailey could have done a little Coaching and mentorship.

By AP-FLORIDA

August 7, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

I for one turned to the Brewers announcers after 2 innings. Charity is nice but for 9 innings? I will keep my Pete Rose rookie card. AS far as Rusty, just read my past posts. I believe that was Dunn’s first hit since JR was traded, and 2 fielders had to run into each other for him to get that! I don’t think he’s pouting, this is his normal cycle. And lastly, WHO’S MATT?

By rockieredsfan

August 7, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Hal on waivers? MIA for two days. Rockies picked up Livan Hernandez off waivers. Hurdle believes he will help the team. I hope he is right but the jury is still out.

By sick of it all

August 7, 2008 6:39 AM | Link to this

given up yet??dummy baker gave up 6 weeks ago..his boy corey goes to bat again in the bottom of the 9th down by 3 runs and still corey and his 150 batting averag go to the plate for another laydown out..this team will never win with this excuse for a manager

By Matt

August 7, 2008 6:35 AM | Link to this

MAC it seemed like Bailey had decent stuff yesterday, but it wasn’t good enough. The Brewers were hitting little grounders, little “bleeders” all day long. Add a couple line drives where nobody was at defensively and it turned into another ‘L’ for ole Homer. It’s unfortunate. Plus, the Reds only scored 3 runs. 3 runs against Jeff Suppan, another middle-of-the-road SP. Another loss and another disappointing season continues.

By Mark in Sun Valley

August 7, 2008 2:47 AM | Link to this

The ‘55 ball is nice, but no trades. I’m keeping my ‘76 Reds autographed bat, ‘70 autographed ball, or even my ticket stubs from the last game at Crosley and from Seaver’s no hitter. You can have my Kirk Gibson bobblehead for the Uncle Orrie cap straight up. Living in Dodgertown sucks.

By MAC

August 7, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

I guess Hal must be sick; no new Blog for a couple of days now? Anyone watch Bailey pitch today? It sounds as though he pitched better, but the story didn’t provide many details. I’m sure his command was better w/ the FB, but what about his breaking ball and change-up? Was he ahead in the count and getting ground ball outs, or was he constantly pitching from behind and w/ men on base?

By Brarhopper

August 6, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Well, Cait, me an Wizard are sittin here on our Harleys in the Huber K-Mart parking lot, drinkin’ jars of corn squeezins with our tootless gals, guns loaded… and nobody showed up. Oh wait, did you say WalMart? Shoulda knowed you fancy city guys woulda picked some rich guy’s store! Shucks! How do ya like me now, fellers?

By Michael in Monterey, CA

August 6, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

Awesome Dr Creep! I was p.o’d when that Joe guy replaced Malcom. I wonder if the robot Stan the Man built is still outwitting Duffy the Dog? Caitlin you are wise! Thanks. Farm hands get ready to show us your game in Sept.

By wizard

August 6, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

How am I doin’ Cait?

By Matt

August 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

I remember a couple weeks ago there was a gentleman on “Sports of All Sorts” on WCPO, who was taking calls from people asking how much their autographed items or things of that nature were worth. I thought that was pretty cool, and I’d like to see more of that type of topic on shows like that. Neat stuff.

By HuberTucky

August 6, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Cool! And I still have the Uncle Orrie cap given me by Ferdie Fussbudget! AND my 1955 Reds autographed team ball (actually my son in California has it’s and it’s his prized possession). Bob Thurman, Smokey Burgess, Bob Purkey, Temple, MacMillan, Hoak, Klu, Post, Bell, Bailey, Haddix, Tebbets, etc. I checked ebay and they go for about $250!

By Mark in Sun Valley

August 6, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Wow. Kudos to the Malcolm, Duffy the Dog and Dr. Creep reference! I still have a stuffed Duffy the Dog that 5th/3rd Bank gave out as a premium.

By Calvin S.

August 6, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

I like the idea of trying Votto in left. Maybe they should try EE in left too, in case the Reds let Dunn walk it might not hurt to see if who could he could be replaced with. One thing I think they should stop doing is running Patterson out to center. This player shouldn’t even be on the team, but since he is for the this season, than I say use him as a late game defensive replacement or a pinch runner. He should can’t hit. I seem to remember Baker making a statement in the spring to the effect that all you have to do to know about a vetern player is look at the back of his playing card. Seems Baker lost his glasses when looking at Patterson’s. Surely he won’t be back next season. If he is I might just stop watching baseball. No I could never do that, it’s in the blood. I have to admit I am addicted to this team no matter what they do. Darn it!

By Dr. Creep

August 6, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Or could it all secretly be Malcom and Duffy the Dog from Clubhouse 22?

By Mike

August 6, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

After extensive investigation the man who is responsiible for 17% of this blog (21-125) is really Batman. He never sleeps and is an ever present blog watchdog. He is the cousin to McGruff the Crime Dog.

By HuberMattTuckWiz

August 6, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

A STARTLING DISCOVERY YOU WON’T BELIEVE! Of the 124 posts, 21 are from Matt. But even more startling, Matt, HuberTucky, Brarhopper and Wizard (that’s all I’ve discovered so far) are ALL the same guy. This is just Matt arguing with himself and blaming others. Add it all up that way and he actually has 84 posts! It’s a conspiracy! It just COULD be that everybody on this blog including Matt is actually Hal and he’s doing all this just to get a raise from DDN!!!

By Cait

August 6, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Matt, Wizard, Brarhopper and your childish brethren - shut up. This blog is for opinions about the Reds. If you have so little intellectual aptitude that you have to resort to personal attacks, then go meet in a Walmart parking lot and duke it out like men. Matt, you do have good points sometimes. I don’t alway agree with you, but sometimes I do. However, you must enjoy the personal attacks. If you truly want them to stop, then quit responding to them. If you and others don’t respond, then they won’t have any reason to keep writing. Don’t be so defensive about your military service either. Again, they are trying to pick a fight and that’s as good as they can come up with. It is cowardly for sure. On the other hand, while I respect your military service, it has nothing to do with your opinion on the Reds. Stick to the topic, don’t respond when they bait you and this whole blog will be a refreshing read once again.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

As Thom Brennaman said, today was not about just a major league baseball game. It was about something a lot bigger than that. Watching and listening to the coverage today, it is awesome, at least in my opinion, what the Reds Community Fund is all about, and what they contribute to the city of Cincinnati, as well as” Reds Country” as a whole. I for one found the coverage to be very good, as far as what today was all about. As far as the game itself, well, same old story there.

By Hubert Ucky

August 6, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

The TV coverage of today’s game was dreadful, marginal at best. Felt like I was watching a telethon or a fund raiser. Constantly showing whoever was in the booth talking to Chris and Thom. Boring. Almost as boring as watching the game. I have a question for the Dusty defenders. Why on earth, if you have any thought of winning the game, do you allow sure-out Corey Patterson to lead off the 9th? He was already 0-3 and showing absolutely no promise of getting better or getting a hit. The Reds were just going through the motions today as usual, with very few exceptions. Another ho-hum performance by a team that seems heartless and indifferent and laconic, and anxious to just get each game over with so they can go eat & drink beer.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Nice post, copperhead. I’m the bad guy though, yeah?

By jsc139

August 6, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Two questions for Reds observers: 1st, Has Dunn had a hit since his pal Griffey left? I mean, he was as good as player-of-the-month for July and seem to be in full pouting mode since the “trade.” 2nd: Does Corey Patterson have the worst swing in MLB? No wonder he’s hitting the highway average (I-75).

By BrarHoppy

August 6, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

LOL !!!!!

By Steve

August 6, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Wood ehvrywon pleeze git uhlong?

By Copperhead

August 6, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

SHUT UP A-HOLE!

By Matt

August 6, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

For every post like the last one, I will keep offering these same couple of questions. Hopefully someone will have the sense enough to recognize them eventually? Who are the ones who attack a person’s military service? Who are the ones who constantly use personal attacks and name-calling to get their point across? You have the nerve to call me delusional, Houston, but you are the one who can’t answer some simple questions. I’m the one with the problem? Read my posts. I deliver my opinion on all things Reds baseball, and I give statistics and facts to back my claims up with. Get your nose out of brarhopper and Huber’s behind long enough to see things for what they are.

By HoustonWeHaveAProblem

August 6, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Thanks rwc—you are correct, Matt does need to be constantly reminded, it seems. How can it be better explained to him, than what Police Chief has said. He just doesn’t get it. I am starting to believe that the only solution—is for everyone to COMPLETELY ignore ALL of his blogs—just don’t recognise him, whatsoever!He lives for the recognition of his drivel, as he polices every opinion. He is delusional; and in my opinion in need of, either, some medication—or a large dose of intelligence and maturity.Doubtful we will see this in our lifetime; since so many of us have told him the same thing—and he refuses to save Hal’s blog, by giving the suggestions a try. Sad.

By mike cahill

August 6, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

This is a good forum for sharing ideas and opinions and for doing a little griping. I suggest that we agree and disagree with ideas and do so respectfully. My opinions are not necessarily better than anyone else’s. I just like them better because they’re my own. But some of you have caused me to change my mind about some things because I ended up likeing your opinion more.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Does that “sniping” include degrading a person’s military service? Does the “sniping” include personal, insulting attacks? Please inform me, todd jackson, of the “sniping” that I have done that equals that. Please inform me of how I have insulted or attacked other people on this blog. Let’s hear it.

By Roho Radio

August 6, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Suggestion 3: Mention another bloggers name only when you agree with them. The only names that should show up for any other reason should be Red’s players/coaches/mgmt, etc since this is a Red’s blog: not a blog for “You Got Served”. Can I get a witness?

By Todd Jackson

August 6, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Roho Radio, that’s an excellent suggestion. I’ll follow your advice and suggest others do the same. Maybe all the sniping will stop. He certainly will not and proves it daily. Hourly. Thanks for the heads up, Roho Radio! :-) Ooops, time to go watch the Reds lose.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Any blog that attacks a person’s service to their country is too long. Any blog that uses personal attacks to win a debate is too long. Read the damn posts and get a clue as to who is responsible for “ruining” this blog. I post about Reds baseball. If someone on here can’t see that, then that is their problem. Brarhopper clearly has his friends on here, who will defend him whether he is right or wrong. I get called the names I am constantly called by brarhopper, and his friends Wizard and Huber, and I am the one blamed for the problems on here? Get real.

By Roho Radio

August 6, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Suggestion 1: Stop reading his blogs. Just skip over them. Don’t even mention his name in your blogs. Suggestion 2: Any blog that fills the whole page is too long. More than 10 sentences is pushing it.

By Todd Jackson

August 6, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Suggestion — perhaps if Matt would stop spending more than half his time here defending his own behavior with too many posts we could actually have more baseball talk. Seems like Matt’s tirades are single-handedly ruining Hal’s blog. IMO. Just a thought.

By Michael in Monterey, CA

August 6, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what Dusty is talking about when he says, “Anything can happen.” If the Lord were to lay his hands on the Reds bats it would produce nothing but ground-outs to short and pop-flys to right. Throw in the towel? The Reds took a 10 count weeks ago. I hope they give their farm system a chance to proove themselves this September. And next year get rid of the third catcher in exchange for an extra arm……..oh, and release Weathers now!

By Matt

August 6, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

AP, did I “attack” brarhopper? No. He took a post I had written about the Reds’ inexperience and twisted that around into a personal attack against me. Now, he has crossed the line into insulting my military service. What kind of a low person does that? Someone who has served their country, and is continuing to serve their country, and somebody who doesn’t have a clue about that or what it means insulting them and denying their service? Shame on you brarhopper, for your unwarranted and personal attacks. If the facts and statistics that I have used to back up my arguments are wrong brarhopper, then please feel free to tell me what facts and statistics are wrong that I have brought up, and I will be happy to debate those with you. Provided of course that you refrain from attacking my military service and launching personal attacks against me. According the brarhopper, I am an egomaniac with no personality or sense of humor. It seems as though brarhopper knows as little about me as he does about Reds baseball. Are you done with your attacks yet, brarhopper? Are you ready to get back to objectively discussing the Reds?

By jimbo

August 6, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

It was time to throw in the towel the day Dusty was hired.There’s a reason he was run out of Chicago and San Francisco< and your seeing it on the field in Cinncinati.

By AP-FLORIDA

August 6, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Matt, while I agree BH was a little over zealous. He answered your attack. The difference is you attack everyone and all for any and everything. Do as you say so many times, post about the reds only….

By Brarhopper

August 6, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Boy, I learned a long time ago that there is no point trying to have a serious discussion with a know-it-all and a young kid with major insecurity issues like you. Add to that an egomaniac with an inferiority complex and you have Matt. You deride everyone about their opinions and cite your BS “facts” which are quite often proven wrong and you never answer those challenges. You just rant on like the know-it-all always right and never correcting yourself. You are a true waste of everyone’s time. And I live in a trailer so no, I don’t look down my nose. As has been said before, you have no sense of humor and were obviously born without a personality. I’m quite certain you were never in the military…you’d have never lasted. Your fellow soldiers woulda shot you in the back after about two months of your childish guff.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

AP, read brarhopper’s attack rant, and put the blame of the problems of this blog where they belong, please.

By AP-FLORIDA

August 6, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Matt (once again) how much of your last post was about the reds? get a clue!

By RWC

August 6, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Here ya go, Houston. Mayy needs to re-read this daily: Matt has continued his annoying ways; so I must remind him of what I said to him sometime agowhich btw is what others keep saying to him,as well. Matt you keep blaming three individuals but, there are many more individuals than those three, who are irritated by you and your assinine continuance of ruining Hals blog. Here it is again:You are becoming a public nuisance. We dont want or need you to police our blog. We dont need your childish corrections of all errorsstated here. Errors as judged by you.Give it a rest.You have been told by MANY, not just three, BUT MANYto back off, shut up,disappear, come back again another year. You have the most comments everyday on this blog. People dont want to hear from one person all the time, on every subject, and every opinion.It is what is annoying about your commentsno one else on this blog gets as many negative comments about them,as you do!You are like a small child that wont go away.You, Matt, are ruining this blogyou alone! You have ligitimately been criticized on here in various forms, because YOU have been the problem! You, your attacks on opinion, are the problema blog is about opinionnot one persons diatribe of repeated comments and attacks. You are not the policeman of this blogyou have not been appointed as such; and you will continue to get comments as long as you act like a bloghog and policeman of the blog.Your repeated childish gibberish is unwanted. It isnt always the truth, as others see itthe problem is: you think it IS always the truth. It is wrong for anyone to approach a blog thinking that and correcting others.Your opinion is forced on others as: you better believe this I am saying,or you are just simply wrong. You also, do what you say you dont, you attack others directly, and indirectlyall you have to do is read your blogs.There is more from the previous comments I madebut perhaps this will suffice, for you to give some thought to why it is that the majority of bloggers are against your actions. They arent complaining to Wizard, or Huber Tucky, or Brarhopperthey ARE complaing to you Mattshouldnt that tell you something? I think so; and so do most of the bloggers here. Get it right, and Im sure most, if not all, will leave you alone.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

Brarhopper, there is one thing I can’t figure out. I can’t figure out why I still give you the time of day, because frankly, you aren’t worth it. Rather than debating objectively about your views vs. my views on Reds baseball, you have chosen the same old tired road of personal attacks to attempt to get your point across. I’m afraid that you really are confused and out of touch, brarhopper. That’s unfortunate. For your information I never attended a “trailer park elementary school”. And if I did live in a trailer park, would you hold that against me? Do you look down on folks who live in trailer parks? It sure seems that way. Another arrogant, way off-the-mark post by the true bloghog, Brarhopper. If your finished being childish, brarhopper, let’s get back to discussing Reds baseball, shall we?

By Brarhopper

August 6, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Matt, you wrote, “Most of the problems with this team is inexperience.” Since you found it so important to point out my spelling error, I thought I would point out your grade school grammatical error. “Problems is?” Should be “problems are.” What trailer park elementary school did you attend? And you don’t write serious posts about baseball, you write childish defensive retorts to any and all things that you disagree with or deem as slights. Truly, you are the frustrated BlogHog BlogCop. Enjoying your job at Burger King, are ya?

By Matt

August 6, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Houston, your right about one thing. There are folks on here who don’t care about facts, statistics or proof of their opinions. They rejoice and take pride in being ignorant, in ignoring the facts and statistics. That is unfortunate for them. I, however, choose to be informed and knowledgeable in the things I talk about. I don’t let my personal feelings or emotions get in the way of the truth, no matter what subject I am talking about. I don’t just pull my opinions out of thin air; I check my sources and research what I say, so I don’t look foolish and ignorant when I post.

By Cait

August 6, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Mike-Cinci, you are right. I get tired of Jr. and Dunn getting all the blame. Yea, they are (were in Jr’s case) below .250, and to be fair, HR hitters should be in the .260-.270 range at worst. But you can deal with a guy putting up Dunn’s #s if the rest of the team is doing its share. It’s not Dunn’s fault there often is no one on base when he comes to bat and smacks a solo HR. This team needs table setters, not first pitch swingers.

By HoustonWeHaveAProblem

August 6, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Matt, reread “ugly as ugly can be”—Police Chief—you are still the annoying one on this blog! Your stats? No one cares about them, or your stupidly repeated comments.Any chance you could take the next shuttle out of here?

By Matt

August 6, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Mike, your right, I am still me. Still providing facts and statistics to back up my arguments and positions. Still using tangible things to back up my positions. That is unlike certain folks on this blog, who let their personal feelings and emotions get in the way and let that cloud their judgment. How unfortunate. The last time I checked, this is supposed to be a blog where serious conversation about Reds baseball takes place, and I’ll continue to write serious, thoughtful posts regarding my positions on Reds baseball. Most of the problems with this team is inexperience. That is why it took Volquez almost 100 pitches to get through 5 innings. That’s why hitters like Bruce and Votto don’t give the most professional ABs. It’s not because they “suck”, it’s because they are young and inexperienced. Guys like Votto, Encarnacion and Phillips are the future of this team. They will continue to grow and mature, provided that they continue to get opportunities day in and day out to play. After all the years of players like Wily Mo Pena, Bill Selby, Brandon Larson and the like, fans finally have something to be excited about for the future of this team. I’m not talking about 5 or 6 years down the road, either. I’m talking about 2009 and beyond. Jocketty/Baker need to fill the following holes this offseason; CF, SS and C. If they can do that, and add a quality SP and a right-handed power bat off the bench, this team WILL be a winner at this time next year.

By wizard

August 6, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

It is difficult to understand how one major league team can be so inept. They are so pathetic and amateurish and immature—reminds one of the boring bloghog.

By michael

August 6, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

I mostly Agree with Mike- Cinci. The Reds do have a few good youngsters in Votto, Phillips, and Bruce, but we need much more. We need a Legit Centerfielder, Catcher, 3rd Baseman, and Shortstop if we want to compete. Keppinger would be a great utility player on a contending team. Ross would make a nice Backup Catcher too. But they are not the clutch stars we need to make us a contender. Without Griffey eating up so much cash, hopefully we can fill one or two of these slots soon. These are very important postions on a contending team.

By Mike-Cinci

August 6, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Mediocre players do dumb things like swinging at the first pitch too much, not knowing the strike zone, never going to the opposite field, not remembering what out it is, and throwing too many pitches by failing to throw strikes. This is a sign the players are not very good. The question we all have to ask is..”is this collection of players about as good as they will ever be?” Last night Volquez threw 100 pitches in 5 innings again. The other starters do the same. This won’t get it done. The Reds have 9 hits in their last 2 games vs. the Brewers after losing 3 in a row to the Nats. This team has a bunch of holes. The starting pitchers ERA is over 5.00. Of the 8 starting position players 4 are under .250 and the other 4 are .277 or lower. Griffey would not change these numbers. He was under .250 too. This team does not have enough talent. The numbers and the won/loss record do not lie. Jocketty needs to find some players.

By Bob

August 6, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Looking back, which is always easier, towels could have been thrown away eight years ago. Good pitching or bad doesn’t seem to matter. It all evolves around on how many homers they hit; very few runs otherwise. Look at EE, 20 hrs and 42 RBIs. Phillips is trying to be a power hitter and abandon everything he did right last year. I believe stars got in his eyes and he lost sight of what brought him to this point. The best use for GABP and PB Stadium would be the world’s largest flea market. Neither franchise seems to have a clue on building a winner. Florida and Minnesota just keep on downsizing and rebuilding in such a short time and put an exciting young team on the field.

By AP-FLORIDA

August 6, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

couple observations; Torre batted A-Rod eighth for awhile…I think the brewers knew what was coming from Volquez. Every time he had 2 strikes he threw his change up and most of the time it was right over the heart of the plate. Bad location and bad choice of pitches! (Volquez, Bako, or Pole?) Phillips won’t let Dunn protect him, he swings at bad pitches so they can pitch him that way, and he will get himself out! Final observation: Matt is still Matt…

By Mike

August 6, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Like I said..Griffey batting 3rd is academic..he could have went 0-4 or 0-5 with 3K’s and the Reds STILL won the game!

By Steven Ross

August 6, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

Matt wrote: Griffey had a lot to do with the Reds being 45-44 in my opinion when he batted 3rd. Lets give credit where credit is due. Not true Matt. Hariston leading off had more to do with those numbers than Griffey. Where’s Ozzie batting Junior now? 7th! Exactly where Dusty should have put him. By the way, your hero went 1 for 6 with three K’s last night.

By MAC

August 6, 2008 4:09 AM | Link to this

Bobby Livingston had another nice outing @ Louisville last night and for those who say we need EE @ 3rd, check out Adam Rosales for the Bats. No doubt, EE is further along than Rosales and fits the proto typical ML 3rd basemen image, but Kepp could fill in at 3rd w/ someone else @ SS until Rosales fully develops @ AAA. This would allow Cincy to possibly make a deal w/ EE which might bring the SS or CF/leadoff man the club desperately needs. I realize EE has a lot of upside and he is a pretty good player as it is right now, but a team has to trade something to get something IMO and it would appear the Reds have a number of other players who could do more than just handle 3rd base. Who’s to say Kepp couldn’t stay @ SS and Andy Phillips couldn’t play 3rd effectively?

By buddy

August 6, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

The Reds are the most underachiving team in BB this year.I’ve never seen a more impatient team at the plate.First pitch swingers,getting themselves out.Never saw so many one pitch,one out rally killers.With Bako and Patterson in the line-up we’re playing with 51\2 hitters.Edwin refuses to go to right field,tries to pull everything,opens up too soon and appears not to have figured out the strike zone yet.Team is way too aggressive when they’re behind.Looks like Brandon is trying to do too much, like he’s thinking 30-30 again and not letting it come to him,still it’s hard to complain about him.The young guys will be fine.Patterson is fine if you don’t give him a time at bat.Got to be the dumbest hitter ever.Swings at more first bad pitches than anyone in the game.He obviously doesn’t have a clue at the plate.Had bases loaded Tuesday night,just scored one run,pitcher in trouble and swings at first pitch and flies out without making Bush work.DUMB,plus the pitch was outside so he poped to left.We need a strong right handed hitter.I don’t think Edwin is the answer at 3rd,too many errors and not enough production, maybe it’s time to move him.We also need a catcher.Bako they say is great with pitchers….but how long can you carry a .210 hitter when your offense is not getting more than 5 or 6 hits a game.It will be interesting to see what kind of house cleaning will be done in the off-season.My vote would be saying goodbye to Patterson,Bako,Andy Phillips,Weathers,maybe Bailey unless he comes out of his coma, Edwin and Majewski, but that’s just my opinion.

By buddy

August 6, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

The Reds are the most underachiving team in BB this year.I’ve never seen a more impatient team at the plate.First pitch swingers,getting themselves out.Never saw so many one pitch,one out rally killers.With Bako and Patterson in the line-up we’re playing with 51\2 hitters.Edwin refuses to go to right field,tries to pull everything,opens up too soon and appears not to have figured out the strike zone yet.Team is way too aggressive when they’re behind.Looks like Brandon is trying to do too much, like he’s thinking 30-30 again and not letting it come to him,still it’s hard to complain about him.The young guys will be fine.Patterson is fine if you don’t give him a time at bat.Got to be the dumbest hitter ever.Swings at more first bad pitches than anyone in the game.He obviously doesn’t have a clue at the plate.Had bases loaded Tuesday night,just scored one run,pitcher in trouble and swings at first pitch and flies out without making Bush work.DUMB,plus the pitch was outside so he poped to left.We need a strong right handed hitter.I don’t think Edwin is the answer at 3rd,too many errors and not enough production, maybe it’s time to move him.We also need a catcher.Bako they say is great with pitchers….but how long can you carry a .210 hitter when your offense is not getting more than 5 or 6 hits a game.It will be interesting to see what kind of house cleaning will be done in the off-season.My vote would be saying goodbye to Patterson,Bako,Andy Phillips,Weathers,maybe Bailey unless he comes out of his coma, Edwin and Majewski, but that’s just my opinion.

By MAC

August 6, 2008 3:56 AM | Link to this

Great Quotes: “I didn’t really like my stuff today,” Volquez said. “They were pretty good at taking pitches and getting swings.” As the Milwaukee Brewers shelled the all-star, the Cincinnati Reds made Milwaukee Brewers starter Dave Bush look like one. Volquez (13-5) gave up five runs on nine hits in five innings in the 8-1 loss Tuesday, Aug. 5. Bush held the Reds to one run on two hits in seven innings, while striking out seven and throwing fewer pitches than Volquez.” What a concept; it sounds as though the Brewers played w/ an approach/or game plan while our guys seem to have none? IMO, our guys continue to show a lack of discipline @ the plate & on the mound. This is where Baker, Pole & Jacoby are letting down the team by not providing the leadership to emphasize plate and mound discipline and or correcting the negative behavior. The only way these young guys are going to get better (BECOME MORE CONSISTENT) game in and game out or from one AB to the next, is to improve their approach/game plan and have the discipline/coaching to stick w/ it. This is where the emphasis needs to be. Forget about wins or loses and start concentrating on 3 good Abs/situational hitting and better mound presence (mental toughness) and mechanical discipline which will better allow the young pitchers to make quality PITCHES and not just THROW the ball over the heart of the plate!

By MAC

August 6, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this

Anyone notice Dunn’s great numbers for July: 310 Avg, 381 Obs, 762 slug w/ 12Hrs, 26RBIs & 16Rs. If I added correctly, the Reds Record for the month was 12Ws & 13Ls? Of course, Dunns not the only reason the Reds won or lost a game, but IMO the same question needs to be answered for the Reds: Is Dunn worth the money and even w/ a great month @ the plate, can he carry this team and make it a WINNER?

By Tucky

August 6, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

gotta hand it to you matt, that was really some kind of brilliant original creative comeback there, snappy boy! wow! you are truly an amazing genius of intelligence and wit.

By Matt

August 6, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

And if personal attacks and insults were an Olympic event, you’d be there now as well. At least we would both be on Team USA. Well, if we lived in your world at least.

By BrarTucky

August 6, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

BlabberHog BlogMouth Matt is at it again…cracking on everybody at every turn, STILL waxing nostalgic for Griffey, bringing up things he agrees and commits to drop less than 24 hours ago, and still with the BlogCop Critic act. Matt, if jumping to conclusions was an olympic event you’d be in Beijing right now.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Not much intellectual insight from me, pummeler? This coming from someone who made posts like the one below: “the Reds SUCK. They fail at fundamental baseball. Jacoby is a drag. fire his a**e. swing at the first pitch every f# time. not very predictable, huh???” That’s really intelligent, intellectual stuff there, huh pummeler?

By rlg

August 5, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Well, another anemic hitting performance and pitching performance. Does Volquez have a tired arm now? If you look at him over the last ten starts, clearly not the same guy, location wise and selection of pitches. I agree with all the others that Jacoby must go. This continual night after night making mediocre pitchers look like Bob Gibson or Tom Seaver has to end. Again, they played with zero heart.

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

oh btw, the ddn sucks ten times as much as matty boy

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

to matt, i wish the bear would get you every time, dork. but he keeps spitting you out and you keep landing on this board, along with much intellectual insight into the game of baseball…NOT!!

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

to matt, i wish the bear would get you every time, dork. but he keeps spitting you out and you keep landing on this board, along with much intellectual insight into the game of baseball…NOT!!

By Matt

August 5, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Just a little factoid on Bush. He came into this game with a 1-6 record on the road, with a 5-9 record overall. And he retires 17 straight Reds? Pretty pathetic. The Reds should have eaten him alive in the first inning when they had the chance. But they blew it, and from there he was in control. A couple highlights from this one; Encarnacion’s head-first slide into first base in the first inning, which was an interesting play since the Reds never hustle or play hard according to some on here. Also, a fine play in the field from Encarnacion as well. And a fine catch by CP in CF. Other than that, not much to take away from this one. Just another game knocked off before what will hopefully be a very eventful offseason. Let’s put this tough ‘L’ aside, and come back and win the rubber game vs. Suppan tomorrow, and take two out of three from the Brew Crew. Go Reds!! One more thing real quick. Did anyone else who watched the game on TV notice the high-class way that family from North Carolina was treated tonight? I thought that was just great.

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

to matt, i wish the bear would get you every time, dork

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

to matt, i wish the bear would get you every time, dork

By Mike-Cinci

August 5, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Some excellent comments by Mr. Baseball, Mr. Redlegs (Original), Mike, and Y-city Jim. The team is short of talent. Jocketty has his work cut out for him.

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

dave bush??? retires 17 straight and…the crowd wants brook jacoby’s a**e

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

dave bush retures 17 straight………………………………………………………………and the crowd goes wild.

By thepummeler

August 5, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

the Reds SUCK. They fail at fundamental baseball. Jacoby is a drag. fire his a**e. swing at the first pitch every f# time. not very predictable, huh???

By Matt

August 5, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Sometimes you get the bear, sometimes the bear gets you.

By ohdave

August 5, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

What a joke. This team is a disgrace. I’m starting to wonder if there is anyone on this team I want to see back next year. There is no heart, no hustle, no leadership on the field. This team, to a man, looks like they don’t care.

By Mike

August 5, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Was discussed on WLW sports talk about a month ago. But yoiu got to know… Griffey could have gone 0-4 or 0-5 with 3K’s and the Reds still won the game. It’ like looking at the glass..is it half full…or is it half empty? Nothing more than an opinion.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

So even when you get the numbers with Griffey batting 3rd, there is still an excuse as to why those numbers don’t matter. Griffey had a lot to do with the Reds being 45-44 in my opinion when he batted 3rd. Let’s give credit where credit is due. He wasn’t having a great year, but he was just starting to heat up at the time he was traded. Also a question for Mike. Do you have a source or proof of that supposed quote by Griffey that he always wanted to bat in the first inning?

By Mike

August 5, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Reds were 45-44 with Griffey batting 3rd is 50%. Nothing to brag about. He was there for”respect” only. Had nothing to do with 45-44 which could have easily been 44-45 or 49%. If anyone on the team was batting higher than his .234 it was like having a LLoyds of London insurance policy..he was guaranteed. no one was going to replace him…no one! He was quoted as telling Baker..he wanted to always bat in the 1st inning. So,having respect, an insurance policy guarantee and the untouchable element he batted 3rd much to the chagrin of many Reds fans.Ancient history.

By ShockMonkey

August 5, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Matt wrote: I feel compelled once again to post this interesting statistic of the # 3 hitters in the Reds lineup this season. With Griffey batting third, the Reds were 45-44. With anyone else batting 3rd, the Reds were 6-17. Now Matt, that’s not a fair sample size plus nobody’s been penciled in on a regular basis in the 3-hole. Hopefully, Dusty will find a smart brain cell or two and go with Bruce or Votto. Either way, thankfully, Griffey’s gone, get over it.

By Aaron B.

August 5, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

I’ll say this for Dayton: they have incredible weather. I am stuck here in Vegas in triple digits all summer long, and everytime I come to this site I see its like 81 degrees in Dayton, Ohio. Nice!

By Matt

August 5, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

So because certain people don’t like my points of view and don’t like the fact that I post on here, I should be silenced? Talk about censorship! I’ll continue to post my views about Reds baseball on this forum. If someone doesn’t like that, then they can either ignore my comments or debate what I say objectively, without throwing in insults in order to try and get their points across. Talk about childish. And yes, read my posts. I guarantee you won’t find any hateful poems about other posters, or me calling anyone else a “worm”, an “idiot”, or a “fool” as I have been called, among other hateful, nasty names. And I’m the one being childish? Nonsense!

By Todd Jackson

August 5, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Matt, the only backup I require is a review of your numerous shallow and whiney posts on Hal’s blog day after day after day. I’ve been quiet long enough reading your childish rants. Many other men on here have given you gentle nudges but your massive ego combined with your inferiority complex simply will not allow you to NOT comment on everything that anyone else says or thinks. I’ve even seen you critize a typo for gad sake! It’s just boring and old and over the top, Matt. Then again, you already know it all because you’ve read the same comments from many and wouldn’t listen to an older wiser voice if your life depended on it…because you repeatedly have not.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

I feel compelled once again to post this interesting statistic of the # 3 hitters in the Reds lineup this season. With Griffey batting third, the Reds were 45-44. With anyone else batting 3rd, the Reds were 6-17. While Griffey still should not have been batting third while he was here, those numbers do indicate that Dusty was not as terrible as some people claim by batting Junior 3rd.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Baker is many things but aloof is NOT one of them. He’s one of the best communicators of all baseball managers. That’s why so many players like playing for him. Blame him for wobbly in-game moves and questionable loyalties, but you just don’t know what you’re talking about when it comes to him dealing with his players and working his clubhouse. For the most part he’s done a terrific job with the Reds’ talented youngsters.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Brar, Patterson hit a homer against Arizona that started the comeback to win their first game of the year. A few days later against Philly, his homer tied the game in the eighth and 2 runs helped win the game. Against the Marlins on May 12, his 4 hits, 2 runs and RBI were huge ignited a comeback win. His homer against the Yankees in June gave Thompson a 4-0 cushion and he also made two terrific defensive plays in center as the Yanks had baserunners all over the place. The point? Has Patterson sucked for the most part? Sure. But he’s played stellar defense, he’s had some big hits and he’s not solely responsible for where this team is in the standings, but far too many of you seem to think he’s the only problem.

By Mike

August 5, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Strategy and the application of certain key moves is something that is an inate and achieved through time spent managing in the minor leagues and playing as well. Baker can only use the players he has been given albiet injuries and such have limited his “strategy” to some point. He has done some things that have driven fans crazy. And what’s worse he continued to do those things such as batting Griffey 3rd and Patterson leading off. But his aloof attitude and demeanor are what stands out such as not noticing Hairston’s injury as he ran to first base. 49 games to go. His report card is still incomplete.

By bigdoc

August 5, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

I agree with the lucid and wise ‘Mr. Baseball’! Well said!

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Well Double-D, thing is, the Reds DON’T have A-Rod or Albert or Chipper or Howard or any of those types of players. Supposing the Reds did have them doesn’t address the issue of WHAT the manager actually has to work with. Remove Griffey from the 3-hole? I agreed. But replace with whom? Phillips is still gonna hit into all those DPs and swing at first pitches. Move Dunn to clean-up? He still hits .240 and still does nothing at the plate except homer, walk or strikeout. Does moving him to the heart of the order drive in more runs when there’s no one on base in front of him? No. The slot in the order doesn’t change that. Guys not getting on base in the 1-2 slots? Put who there? The logical people have been hurt most of the year. Put untested rookies in the power slots? Then you’re not doing them any developmental favors as pitchers make quicker adjustments than young hitters. So, the lineup makes a difference when you have talent playing at a high level, but when you have what the Reds have worked with this year, the difference in a batting order is really the same.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Todd jackson, care to back up your claims about my “whining, insulting diatribes”? If you make an accusation like that, you better be able to back it up.

By Todd jackson

August 5, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

What’s with the censorship? You allow Matt’s whining insulting diatribes yet you block the postings of others? What gives? I see you removed some that were previously posted. Nothing better to do in your small-minded world of Dayton, voted a dying town by Forbes Magazine and reported in YOUR paper, BTW.

By Aaron B.

August 5, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Totally disagree with Dusty. Dickerson deserves to play instead of Patterson. Roenicke is better than half of our current bullpen. Janish could probably help out. Hanigan could probably replace Bako quite easily. The season is over Dusty. We are gonna lose a lot of guys to free agency and a lot of these guys are washed up and over the hill. Time to find some replacements. Anyhow, the GM calls the shots on personnel not the manager so why does anyone care what he thinks?

By DD

August 5, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Mr. Redlegs-shuffling the order CAN make a difference. If it couldn’t, why would everyone say it was a mistake batting Junior third? Why won’t you ever see Albert Pujols or Alex Rodriguez batting 8th? You need production in front of a power hitter like Dunn. There is no excuse in him having 32 HRs and only 74 RBIs. As much as everyone wants to blame Adam for that, you can blame the first four hitters in the order just as much. Minimal production out of the 1 and 2 holes all year, Junior providing the LEAST amount of production in the MAJORS out of the 3 hole, and Phillips grounding into more DPs than anyone on the team or getting picked off while batting cleanup. Get the better players who don’t strike out and have higher OBP in front of Dunn and things would be different this year.

By Vz

August 5, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Every year the Reds give you hope for NEXT season. They will go on that little winning streak shortly and get you excited for NEXT season (again). It is hard to justify a trip to Cincinnati for the family to watch bad baseball. Also…could someone please RUN out a ground ball! (grew up in the Rose days where he ran out walks). It can be done. Those were the days. Throw in the towel and start from scratch with a new team of blue-collar hustlers. It will put butts in the seats.

By Mr. Baseball

August 5, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball is not ready to jump on the Dump Dusty bandwagon. It’s not clear Tony LaRussa or other top managers could have done better with this personnel. Looking back, Dusty has made a couple of pretty big boo-boos — playing Corey Patterson as long as he did in CF and batting Junior third in the lineup. These are mistakes that he made because he has a known tendency to trust veteran players. That trust didn’t pan out for these two. On the other hand, contrary to his past reputation, he has shown a lot of patience with many young players who have received valuable playing time this year. The Reds have felt the growing pains of their youth and inexperience at times, but these youngsters will be better sooner for the experience they received this year. Dusty sometimes does not manage by the book. This means that he considers the percentages, but trusts his baseball instincts in the end. Mr. Baseball likes that even though he doesn’t always agree with every decision Dusty makes. Many times Dusty’s decisions have better results than fans give him credit for. Often his failures are due to lack of execution by the players. Mr. Baseball has many quibbles with some of Dusty’s moves, but there is no “one best way” to manage a baseball team. This has been an eye-opening season for Dusty as well as the fans. He will learn from it. The biggest concern is whether Dusty can be a teacher and motivator of young teams, like Billy Martin used to be. Because that is what he will have next year. As for throwing in the towel, no — you play the game to win. That doesn’t mean you don’t try out some things. The biggest ongoing experiment for the last two months of the season is what would this team look like WITHOUT Griffey and WITH Dunn? The Reds need to assess if the current mix of this team — in the absence of Junior — warrents signing Dunn to a multi-year deal. They can’t make that assessment by “throwing in the towel” and bringing up a bunch of minor leaguers in August. As Dusty says, the Reds’ best minor leaguers are already here. Let them play and see what they can do.

By Y-City Jim

August 5, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

The talent is uneven and, in some cases, still being developed (such as Bruce, Votto, Cueto, Volquez, and Bailey). There are definite talent holes at catcher, shortstop, and center field. I agree that the management changes cannot just happen because of dissatisfaction with the current level of play. Change should only happen if you know you can replace that person with someone better. That was why the Krivsky firing may have been a good decision because he was being replaced by someone better. Krivsky wasn’t let go because he was necessarily doing a bad job. Now I think the Mackanin dismissal was not a good decision because I think it was very questionable that Baker would do a better job but unless there is someone out there that Castellini/Jocketty feel is a better man for the job, Baker should stay.

By Brarhopper

August 5, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Mr. Redlegs (Original) — is that like Skyline Chili Original 3-Way? Better yet, Mr. R(O), you tell us how many game Patterson won for the Reds this year…the direct result of his batting leadoff? Please? I don’t think they track micro numbers. The answer could quite possible be NONE with his micro-batting average.

By Jack

August 5, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Agree and disagree with Dusty, I am with him, there is nobody left to bring up and play. Although I would rather see Dickerson then Patterson, but I would also rather watch paint dry then see Patterson in the line-up. But, for not throwing in the towel….the towel has already been thrown in. This is a bad team who may be capable of winning three, four straight games, but also capable of losing 6-7 straight.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Steve Ross, how does Baker not provide stability? He’s had three managing jobs in 16 years, been manager of the year, been to the World Series and playoffs, and won over 1,200 games? He’s been on the job in Cincinnati less than 5 months. Additionally, what evidence do you have that he and Jocketty are NOT on the same page? Or, are you just pulling bunk from the get-a-lifers on the Cubs blogs?

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Greg, please tell us exactly how many games Patterson single-handedly—all by himself—lost for the Reds this year? We’re not talking suppositions and hypotheticals … we’re talking direct correlation to defeats.

By Steven Ross

August 5, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

I agree we need stability. Jocketty provides it, Baker does not. Sorry but Walt will be looking for a manager that’s his hire, in his mold. I also say Dunn’s outta here. That’s my story.

By greg

August 5, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

What else would you expect out of the guy who left Patterson in the leadoff spot for 2 months. Sounds like we get the same old thing next year - a bunch of guys coming up with butterflies, instead of breaking them in now.

By greg

August 5, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

What else would you expect out of the guy who left Patterson in the leadoff spot for 2 months. Sounds like we get the same old thing next year - a bunch of guys coming up with butterflies, instead of breaking them in now.

By Mike-Cinci

August 5, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

I agree with Mr. Redlegs (Original). The Reds problem is a lack of sufficient talent. We have got to give Jocketty and Baker a chance. Firing another GM and/or manager makes no sense and it will make things worse The Reds need stability. They need to improve the farm system. Stability will give them a chance to compete for a few free agents. The Reds are in Pirates/Royals land. Top free agents with a desire to win do not want to play for a regular loser and the Reds have earned this distinction. Unfortunately fixing this is a multi-year project. The band-aids the Reds applied over the past 9 years have not worked. Wishful thinking will not produce a winner. There is some young talent with potential but it is not nearly enough.

By michael

August 5, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Matt, again, you are just showing your lack of maturity. Nobody said anything about cheerleading, but at least play the game hard and earn your outragious money that the fans pay you. I am in the Army (22 Years) and I understand motivation and leadership by example. I also understand who pays my paycheck, and I owe it to them to earn my pay.

By HuberTucky

August 5, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

With the Reds, it’s merely rearranging the deck chairs and polishing the brass rails on the Titanic.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

I guess it depends on what your definition of “apathy” is or what you think being aggressive is. Should the Reds have a cheer that they do before each game? Should a couple of players get on top of the dugout and join the Reds cheerleaders when they do their thing? Should the Reds sprint on and off the field between innings? And have a rally cry while they do it? Junior is an even-keeled guy. If you are a major league ballplayer and you aren’t motivated to show up and grind it out every day then you shouldn’t be playing. These guys are grown men. I’m sorry, but if they need someone to “pump them up” then there’s a problem. That being said, it is important to have a clubhouse leader of some kind, a captain in the vein of Barry Larkin. But it just doesn’t seem to me that a team of grown men, of major league ballplayers, needs someone to tell them to man up.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

By all means, La Russa and Duncan would win 100 games with this roster, schedule and injuries because, well, Dusty’s just so passively incompetent that he’s the sole reason this team is 9 games under and going nowhere fast. Dude, it’s still about the talent. It’ll always be about the talent, and besides, if the Reds eat the remaining $7 million of Baker’s contract after this year no one should utter a syllable when the ticket and concession prices rise again.

By Brad65

August 5, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Of course you don’t throw in the towel yet!!!! The Bucks don’t tee it up until August 30th…THEN you throw it in because there will be something worthwhile to watch. As for the fight…I’d be peed off too if I was getting beat by the Reds. Tony LaRussa and Dave Duncan will be here shortly. Not a huge fan of Tony, but the man flat out wins year in and year out…wouldn’t that be nice???

By michael

August 5, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Don’t read into it Matt. I think he is just saying that the Reds don’t show a lot of passion, or agressiveness. Thats how I see it as well. Thats why a lot of folks wanted your boy JR out of here. We think he was a role model of apathy.

By Matt

August 5, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t seem to me that a team having a dugout fight is necessary or should be wanted. I don’t think that any team looks forward to that to help them win. How many championships did the Yankees win all those years in the late 90’s? Did they have frequent dugout fights? I think there are a lot of other ways to show “passion” than that.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Double-D, you realize shuffling the batting order doesn’t change the fact that these guys are hitting what they are, right? Basically, you’re just moving the furniture. It’s the same pieces, just different places. In the end, doesn’t make that much (if any) difference.

By mike cahill

August 5, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Yes it’s that towel tossing time of year again. I’d be careful who I’d let toss it and don’t expect Adam Dunn to catch it. I’d mix things up a little bit. Perhaps try Josh Fogg at third base, let Arroyo bat third and play left field. Perhaps try having Brandon tilt his cap to the other side and let the players wear shorts and sleeveless tee shirts with the Reds logo.

By HuberTucky

August 5, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Can you imagine the Reds showing similar dugout passion to the Brewers with a little emotional dust-up in the dugout? I can’t. Not this gang.

By Brarhopper

August 5, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Uhm…I’m afraid the towel is already off the rack and layin’ on the floor mopping up spills, guys. This season has been one promise after another, one baited anticipation followed by yet another failure. Wait until May. Wait until June. Wait until Bruce… until Junior regains his swing…until Dunn heats up…Freel gets back…we score some runs for Harang & Arroyo…we get the lucky bounces they got…we get seeing-eyed hits like they do…until after the All_Star Break…until we have that series with lowly San Diego, Colorado, Houston…until Hairston gets back (totally and unwisely rushed)…wait wait wait. This team is way over 500 against teams with winning records and way below 500 against teams with losing records. The Reds world is upside down! What is going on here? day is night and night is day. It’s a mess and, for all intents and purposes, 2008 is over. Toss in the towel? What towel?

By Matt

August 5, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

The story that I heard on Sportscenter was that Parra was heading to the clubhouse after being taken out of the game and Fielder wanted Parra to sit in the dugout and watch the Brewers bat that inning. Parra didn’t want to, and that’s why Fielder lost his cool. When a team is in the heat of a pennant race such as the Brewers, emotions can run a little high. There is a lot on the line, and guys are feeling the pressure every day.Hopefully, the Reds can add to that pressure a little more over the next couple of days.

By DD

August 5, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Dusty needs to change the batting order around. This team has more talent than they are showing. Phillips is not a #4 hitter. How he is free of criticism is beyond me. He is the worst base runner on the team (can he get picked off any more?) and hits into more double plays than anyone. Yet, Dunn’s Ks is all fans want to focus on. Get him out of the 4 hole! New lineup: Phillips, Hairston/Patterson (since no one else available in CF), Votto, Dunn, Encarnacion, Bruce, Kepp, Ross/Valentin. Mix it up Dusty!!!

By Steven Ross

August 5, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

By Y-City Jim wrote: Mr. Redlegs, do you see no value to a team finishing strong as a means to give momentum to the next season? We finished well under MacKanin and what good did it do? We blew it hiring Dusty. Jocketty will bring in his own manager. This team is a train wreck but Votto and Bruce provide signs of a positive future.

By HuberTucky

August 5, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

I agree with Mike-Cinci when he said, “I guess we will never know what caused the Parra/Fielder fight.” But I watched the video clip and I’ll tell you one thing: Fielder is just another punk thug wannabe athlete. Parra made no moves at all, it was all Fielder. Maybe Parra suggested Slim Fast.

By rob

August 5, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Mr. Redlegs, are you insinuating Baker is smoking pot? On the one hand, it’s commendable that Baker isn’t giving up but reality says the Reds have virtually no chance of playing beyond September 28. Put me on the Chris Dickerson bandwagon. He strikes out a lot and would be a rookie at 26,but is playing well in AAA and deserves a chance.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Y-City, that momentum is most always a facade, especially when you have a team like the Reds with 11-12 (mostly veteran) free agents-to-be and massive roster turnover is to be expected. Besides, how many times do we see a bad team play well in September against call-ups and late-season roster filland give management the false belief they are better than they truly are? It’s happened to the Reds all too frequently this decade.

By Y-City Jim

August 5, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Mr. Redlegs, do you see no value to a team finishing strong as a means to give momentum to the next season? Many fans complain that this team doesn’t know how to win. Maybe every game should be looked as an opportunity to teach them how to win. Wasn’t that the point of bringing Baker aboard?

By BRAD UHLENHAKE

August 5, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

BRUCIE WILL BE FINE… DOES ANYONE ELSE THINK BRANDON PHILLIPS SWINGS AT NEARLY anything? WHAT A STARK CONTRAST TO SEE DUNN AND PHILLIPS BAT - DUNN should LOGICALLY BE THE MAD SWINGER SEEKING A LONG BALL AND PHILLIPS COULD BE expe#cted TO BE THE DISCIPLINED, PLATE-SAAVY HITTER HE IS NOT. SUCH IRONY! PLEASE MOVE BRANDON FROM THE CLEAN-UP SLOT AND TELL THE MAN HE SHOULD STILL BUNT ONCE IN AWHILE AND GO THE OTHER WAY AND STOP BEING SUCKERED INTO SILLY SWINGS IN HIS QUEST FOR A HR. WE love YOU BRANDON BUT DO not SLIP INTO BEING WHAT YOU ARE NOT. STOP SWINGING AT LOW, OUTSIDE, WIDE-OF-THE-OPLATE PITCHES… pretty please.

By Mike

August 5, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

APFlorida..I read where in newspaper, Baker in the off season is a “Motivational Speaker”! I kid you not!! I don’t guess he is using all his talents,skills or secrets on his basebal team. What a guy to hire to motivate your employees or group..! Better get your reservation in early..

By Mike-Cinci

August 5, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

It would not hurt to try Dickerson but it would be a surprise if he is the answer. He has a big swing which may not work against big league pitchers. He is the best of what is left at Louisville. Hanigan looks to be a back-up catcher and we have 3 of those already. I guess we will never know what caused the Parra/Fielder fight. Unlike Hal I thought Parra was walking away from the tunnel not toward it in the dugout. My guess, and it is only a guess, is Parra told Fielder he should have caught Votto’s 2 run single and “Prince” took exception to the comment.

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

Y-City, “winners” of what? If you don’t go to the playoffs you are not a winner, no matter what your record says. Second place, last place, what’s the difference? You’re going home all the same. Isn’t making the postseason what it’s all about?

By Jim 5

August 5, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

No, hold the towel. Bronson showed the Reds what they can do: Hit timely with runners on - he doubled in the first two runs himself; Pick up your teamates - he handled a throw at first after a Votto bobble for a key out; Do the little things - like hold at second on a grounder to score later. Talent is not in short supply this year like in years past.

By michael

August 5, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

Never throw in the towel. We have to deal with that every year. It was horrible to watch the Reds when they surrendered last year. They put a joke of a Line- up on the field everyday. Hopefully, they will put the best team they can on the field everyday and let them play it out.

By Y-City Jim

August 5, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this

I agree that Dickerson deserves a look. I’m not sure Hanigan isn’t more of the same. Just playing Ross everyday would help.

By Y-City Jim

August 5, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

I do agree that you never throw in the towel. While playoff chances are not a possibility, a manager has to push his players to give it there all if they are ever going to be winners. It is much like the last racers in a distance race. You still expect them to kick coming down the stretch.

By AP-FLORIDA

August 5, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

Rusty is not worried about wins, or he would learn to motivate. He is there to collect his paycheck, live on his name, and have his son in the dugout. Hope that Walt sees this and can do something about it. Wizard- yeah, played against starpath in LIT and they had Flynn and Tommy Helms JR one year.

By bill

August 5, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this

This is a sorry team beginning with the manager. They need to start from scratch, much like a dermatologist.

By tom

August 5, 2008 7:26 AM | Link to this

Dusty Faker doesn’t want to look at minor league players because he is worried about his won-loss record.

By VietVet

August 5, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this

The Reds would probably have to win 3 out of 4 games in each series to have a decent season. Don’t think that will happen. A .500 team at best this year. Get the towel ready.

By MAC

August 5, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure about any towel throwing, but I’d like to see Hanigan and Chris Dickerson get a call up from Louisville sometime soon. Hanigan has been solid at the plate all season long and Dickerson has slowly but surely brought up his avg (284 now) all season long. P.S. Harang pitched very well tonight for the Bats. Hopefully his arm will recover nicely from the workout.

By MAC

August 5, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this

Yeah, for a Mgr w/ as much experiece as Dusty has, I think it’s fair to expect a little more leadership than that?

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 5, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this

I’m not a Dusty basher because I think many times what he says and what he means are not always parallel, even though they are the same, but this BS about miracles happening is absurd. You tell the guys, “Look, we’re a longshot at this point but that’s okay. We’ve got plenty to play for. We have a ton of divisional games and we can make some other teams’ lives very miserable. We have our pride and we can make a huge difference in who goes to the World Series and who doesn’t. So we need to continue being professionals out there and work toward some goals and work toward next year and beyond.” It’s not hard. You have to be forthright with grown men and you have to take bigger charge in lieu of player leadership.

By HuberTucky

August 4, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Amen to that, Mr. Redlegs. And if anyone actually believes at this point that this team has the makeup to pull off what the Rockies did last year…well, I’ll buy a lid of whatever yer a-smokin’! And Dusty’s comment, “Most of the guys who are pretty close to being major-league players are here already and have been most of the year.” Uh, in what tense is the man speaking? CLOSE to being major league players? Hell, buddy, they are IN the majors (have been most of the year) and that means they ARE major league players! Earth to Dusty! Oh yeah, gotta love Bruce’s confidence and overall attitude.

By wizard

August 4, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

GO BUCKS!

By Mr. Redlegs (Original)

August 4, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

When you are 15 games out, in last place with five teams to climb over, and there’s only 50 games to play, the only person you are kidding about your playoff chances is yourself … unless you are smoking dope.
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