Reds win 9-8

The Reds win 9-8, despite themselves. They scored three runs in the eighth -- two-run homer by Juan Castro, RBI single for Norris Hopper -- after the Pirates took at 8-6 lead on four uneaned runs in the top of the inning.

Mark Bellhorn didn't make a very good case for himself by booting a routine groundball that led to the four unearned runs. Bellhorn has looked shaky on defense at second and third. The Reds made four errors on the day, leading five unearned runs.

Josh Hamilton had three more hits, his fourth multi-hit game of the spring. He's hitting .538. He attributes his success to this: "I've been calmer at the plate. Maybe it has something to do with being older."

Brian Shackelford, the pitcher in the eighth when all the runs scored, got the win. Brian Meadows saved it. Other offensive highlights: Ryan Freel 2-3, Edwin Encarnacion, 2-4, RBI, Alex Gonzalez 2-3, 2B, RBI. Pitching: Todd Coffey struck out the side in the seventh. Scoreless innings from Mike Stanton, Bobby Livingston, Meadows. Eric Milton 3 2/3, 7 hits, 4 runs, 3ER, 1 BB, 3 SO. Brad Salmon gave up three runs in 2/3 of an inning.