My theory on Blanton

Here's my theory on what the Reds are thinking about with Joe Blanton: They want to get a look at Homer Bailey, Johnny Cueto, Edinson Volquez and Matt Maloney before they decide whether to pull the trigger on a trade. Remember, Dusty Baker and Walt Jocketty haven't seen any of these guys throw.

If Baker and Jocketty like what they see, the Reds may decide they don't need Blanton. Or vice versa.

"Baker said the Reds are still looking, but that's the case around baseball.

"Everybody I know is looking for one," he said. "Maybe except Boston. But they might be looking for one with (Curt) Schilling hurt."

But there becomes a time when you go with what you've got.

"There some late (free agents to sign) out there," Baker said. "But you've got to move forward with who you have here. You don't want the guys here thinking: They're looking at somebody else. Are they dissatisfied with me? You've got get rid of that notion."

One early note:

--Left-hander Bill Bray is being held back because of a sore shoulder. He doesn't think it's serious. He over-correct in his rehab. "Now, I have to correct that," he said. "We're working out what I have to do." He is throwing but not off the mound.

Cueto, Bailey and Volquez throw today. I'll report back with what I see. my guess is I could hit any of them.