Thursday, April 7, 2011

Reds Finally Lose A Game

* * Well the Reds winning streak is a thing of the past, for now. The Reds lost today to the Houston Astros 3-2, and while they now can't go 162-0, they are still on pace to go 135-27. We all know that's not going to happen either, but they are still looking really good and as long as they stay healthy I think a return trip to the playoffs is in the cards for this team. Things have gone really well in the first two series for the Reds. Other than the first innings for Volquez the starting pitching has been really good and has gone deep into every game. That has kept the bullpen off the field for long periods of time, thus keeping them fresh. That's going to pay dividends later in the year. The offense has been on fire up to this point. Stubbs has looked good in the leadoff spot and both he and Gomes have become more patient hitters walking more and striking out less. The catching duo of Hannigan and Hernandez are hitting the ball as well as any single catcher in all of baseball. They are manufacturing all these runs without Bruce really even getting going yet. While Votto has been decent he hasn't put up the numbers he will by the time this season gets in full swing. When those two get really going this team is going to be tough to stop at the plate. The Reds now go to Arizona and play a lowly Diamondbacks team that they should at least take 2 of 3 and maybe even sweep them. The Reds have a soft schedule this month and with Milwaukee and St. Louis struggling could jump out to a big lead early. That would be clutch for when some rough patches happen against the better teams in the NL. Also getting out to a big lead and being able to clinch somewhat early would be key for keeping players like Rolen fresh and healthy for the playoffs. If they can keep a comfortable lead in the Central they'll be able to rest starters more and more and get the bench players more at bats. That will prove to be huge come playoff time for fresh starters and bench players that have a good amount of at bats keeping them sharp. Things could be lining up for this team to make a deep playoff run and maybe even a championship in 2011.

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