Willy Taveras cf
Jerry Hairston 2b
Chris Dickerson lf
Jonny Gomes rf
Ramon Hernandez c
Alex Gonzalez ss
Adam Rosales 1b
Paul Janish 3b
Aaron Harang p
Believe it or not, this was the starting lineup for the Reds today as they kicked off a series against the Astros. 3 of these guys weren't in the majors 2 weeks ago. Worse than that, other than Taveras, none of these guys were guaranteed a starting spot at the beginning of the season, and most were questionable to make the roster! So what did the antithesis of "Murderer's Row" do? They beat up on the Astros for 8 runs on 13 hits winning 8-5.
So how did we come to this awful lineup? Votto has been out for 2 weeks now with an inner ear infection. Phillips broke his thumb. Encarnacion has a broken wrist. Bruce was worn out and got a day off.
How have we continued to win? Our pitching ROCKS! Our starters have been as good as advertised. Our bullpen has been solid. Cordero has been almost perfect as closer. I was a little worried when Volquez went down with back spasms, but it looks like he is fine.
I honestly am optimistic about the rest of the season. The Reds are hanging in there despite the MAJOR injuries that have depleted our already below average offense. When we get guys back healthy and summer rolls around, I think we may be a complete team that makes some noise!
By the way, I still hate the Astros. Even though they suck this year, I always remember that awesome game we went to at Riverfront when we were really young and there was a huge bench clearing brawl. I'm glad they suck!
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4 comments:
You're really testing me, but I'm fighting temptation and sticking to my policy of not commenting on the Reds until after the All Star game - the same All Star game at which the Reds' only representative will be a pitcher the manager has to select so they have at least 1 player on the roster...
Hey now, the Reds might get two players. Johnny Cueto will most likely be the pitching selection, but Joey Votto also might be voted in. He's been clutch all season!
Also, I think Jay Bruce sucks. The guys swings at anything remotely near the plate, and lays off pitches right down the middle. Not to mention his defense is shaky at best. However, I can't suggest an alternative, so I'll have to hope he gets better.
Votto will NEVER be voted into the All-Star game as long as Pujols can still stand upright and catch a ball in his 1st base mitt!
OK, after last night, I have to admit that Jay Bruce is good. He does look like a use-car salesman, however. He needs a haircut.
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