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Reds Insider
From news of the day to news of the weird, John Fay provides a glimpse of what it’s like to cover the Cincinnati Reds

John Fay
John Fay has been the Reds beat writer for the Enquirer since 2001. Prior to that, he served in a variety of roles for the Enquirer: backup Reds writer, UC beat writer, backup Bengals writer and as a general assignment reporter. He is a Cincinnati native and a graduate of Elder High School and the University of Dayton.

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Monday, March 17, 2008

Reds 5, Tigers 3: Cueto's day

Johnny Cueto's worst outing of the spring wasn't bad at all. He went four innings, allowing two runs on four hits. He struck out four and walked three. All his troible came in the first. He retired 11 of the last 12 he faced. His ERA shot up to 2.08.

Detroit manager Jim Leyland gave Cueto a major compliment to Dusty Baker.

"He said he'd take Cueto," Baker said. "He wasn't tampering. He was joking. I was talking to him before the game about what happened to him with (Joel) Zumaya and (Juston) Verlander. Those guys came out of A ball. It's a matter of sometimes you go with the talent, especially when you haven't been winning with the stuff you've been using. (Cueto's) made an impression on everyone around this Grapefruit League, not just us."

With Jeremy Affeldt going to the bullpen, the Reds' rotation is starting look settled. Baker was asked he was convinced Cueto could do what he's done down here once the season begins.

"I never said I wasn't convinced," Baker said. "I just can't say that. I don't want to squelch other guys and I don't want him to think he has it made. Not that he'd do that. I don't think he's that kind of young man.

"This guy wants it badly."


Cueto's day started with two bloop singles by Edgar Renteria and Placido Polanco. Cueto struck out Carlos Guillen. But walked Magglio Ordonez to load the bases, then walked Miguel Cabrera on four pitches to force in a run. He fell behind Jacque Jones 3-1 but got him to groundout. Another run scored. Cueto struck out Ryan Raburn to leave runners at second and third.

"If you're going to get him, you're going to get him in the first," Baker said. "It's not like he was pitching against slouches over there. That's a good line-up. I knew it was going to be a big test. he passed it like he's pass all the other tests."

"He seemed unfazed," Baker said. "I know he was rattled by it. But he handled it like a veteran. He demonstrated damage control, which is what it's all about. When you do have your real good stuff, keep your team in the game until you can score some runs."

Corey Patterson doubled to lead off the first for the Reds. An out later, Griffey Lined to center to drive him in.

1-2-3 second for Cueto. He's not nearly as sharp as he's been, i.e., he went 3-2 on Kenny Rogers after being up 0-2.

1-2-3 third for Cueto as well.

Cueto walked the leadoff man in the fourth and then retired the side in order.

Adam Dunn tied it in the Reds' fourth with his second homer of the spring -- a high shot to right that went through a strong wind to get out.

Josh Roenicke gave up a hit and walked two in the fifth but struck out Cabrera to leave the bases loaded.

David Weathers picked a scoreless sixth. Francisco Cordero pitched the seventh and eighth. He allowed a run. "He only threw five pitches in the seventh," Baker said. "That's why he went back out. He was working on his fastball. When he got in trouble, he threw some nasty splits."


98 Comments:

at 1:29 PM Anonymous Anonymous said...

if this were majewski, stanton or bailey, everyone would be calling for their head

 
at 1:32 PM Blogger jdeezman said...

Let's see how he follows that inning up.

Composure, does he let the rocky start defeat him or does he keep his team in it?

Let's see what you've got Cueto!

 
at 1:39 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

With all the talk about Cueto, Volqez, and to a lesser extent Fogg, Arroyo has kind of flown under the radar. I think we all agree he has something to prove right now as well.

His line for spring:

2 games, 6IP, 3H, 1R, 1.50ERA

Pretty good, but I think in his next start theyll stretch him out a bit, maybe hell go 5 or 6. It will likely be againt a mostly A lineup and we should get a better feel for how hes throwing then.

If Cueto pitches well again today, Arroyos next start will be the last one of any significance this spring.

 
at 1:40 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

John FYI, Jack is on the Kareoke post and is worse than ever.

 
at 1:42 PM Blogger Grizzlyfox said...

I don't really care that Cueto gave up 2 in the first. His stuff was dirty. He was fine until the runner advanced to second, and then being the competitor he must be he wanted a k of Ordonez and Cabrera. He'll learn its better to give up one then two and not to overthrow. Plus with his stuff I don't see him getting into trouble too often.

 
at 1:56 PM Blogger Redleg city said...

I think "Jack " must be a 14 year old kid and doesn't have anything else to do but bug us with his hatefull talk. I guess the video games must be getting tiresome for him or "Mommy " hasn't called him for lunch yet...LOL

 
at 2:02 PM Blogger j-rod said...

its looking like votto may be aaa bound with bailey and belisle if he doesn't get cranking and hatte keeps hitting. a little struggle is good for kid cueto

 
at 2:04 PM Blogger Branden said...

affeldt is done? i think he should get one more start

 
at 2:08 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Started of Shaky, but he's(Cueto) settling in.The RISP avg. for the reds doesn't look much improved.

From what I remember that was a issue last season.

 
at 2:14 PM Blogger Scott Botkins said...

If they send Votto, Bailey, Bruce and Cueto to AAA, then Dusty Baker needs to be fired on the spot. These guys are never going to get the experience they need in the majors if we keep sending them down while scrubs like Freel, Hopper and Patterson play and most likely won't be on a team in 2-3 years.

 
at 2:15 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Branden-.Affeldt's line as a starter not good.Leave him in the bullpen were he can flourish & be used as a LH option for a spot start.

Dust said he wasn't comfortable with him pitching 5-6 innings.Meaning Dusty wants to win.

 
at 2:16 PM Blogger Unknown said...

Dunner ties it up!

 
at 2:18 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Dunn just got got Lucky,the wind just gave him a dinger.New game 0-0.Cueto should be able to settle down a little more.

Happy st.pats day everyone.

 
at 2:18 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

With Affeldt, I think its more because Cueto and Volquez have looked so good. Even if Affeldt had a good start next time out, it wouldnt outweigh what C, V, (or Fogg for that matter) have done.

Theres just no more open spots in the rotation.

 
at 2:22 PM Blogger Osogato said...

Good call Redlegg. I've been worried about clutch hitting all spring. It seems when we signed Cordero and then focused on the starting rotation everyone seems to have forgotten that aside from pitching, our biggest problem last year was hitting in clutch situations. I havn't noticed a marked improvement yet this spring, and that does worry me a bit.

 
at 2:27 PM Blogger Unknown said...

How many pitches did Cueto throw?

 
at 2:29 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

RedlegCity, funny post on JinBA, but lets not even mention his name.

I think we all know he cant stay away, so even if hes not posting, you can bet hes reading.

Lets not give him a false sense of importance by including him in posts in the future for any reason.

Its been nice hasnt it! :)

 
at 2:30 PM Blogger Branden said...

redleg-do u think affeldt will be used in a lefty specialist area, or what? I guess hes our backup option if fog/cueto/EV struggle?

 
at 2:35 PM Blogger deQuadra said...

Some interesting tidbits from Rosecrans today. Sounds like Bruce is AAA. And opponents don't think much of Mr. Bailey.

http://700wlw.com/pages/ctrent.html?feed=246017&article=3416676

 
at 2:36 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

John= What are the chances Roenicke making the bullpen?

 
at 2:37 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Affeldt will be in the pen all year, our backup plan for guys who struggle should be either Belisle or Bailey in AAA.

Hopefully they both get their heads out of their...

 
at 2:38 PM Blogger John Fay said...

They did not keep a pitch count on Cueto. I lost track while dealing with Jack's nonsense on another thread.

I think we're going permanent moderation. Jack's posting, who someone pretending to be him, has gotten nasty.

I'll to keep the posts popping up, but it will be slow at night.

 
at 2:39 PM Blogger Gunner said...

OMG ... This just in, Cueto is human! =) Just kidding, nothing wrong with a little adversity ... he pitched his way out fine and settled down. Its nice to see Roenicki back too ... I have postured that he deserves a spot in the pen as much as anyone this spring. Kid has been lights out to this point.

 
at 2:43 PM Blogger Branden said...

griffey said a nasty word after getting hit in the foot and the ppl behind him booed LOLOL

 
at 2:44 PM Blogger jdeezman said...

Sad... the blog is definitely much better without the nonsense though.
Real baseball talk with opinions, REAL debates, and no one getting bent out of shape and repeating the same tired BS a million times!

Cueto seemingly wasn't "on" today and he still did a good job. What more can you ask from a young talent?

This is easily the best pitching we've had since 1990, but as others have stated... our clutch hitting is still suspect.

Catcher and clutch hitting... pretty damn important!

 
at 2:45 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Whatever you need to do John, we appreciate your efforts.

 
at 2:46 PM Blogger Matt McWax said...

Hey Mr. Fay, any clue why Marty Brennaman regresses to criticism and questioning of Encarnacion so often? He's always been generous with criticism and reluctant with praise. It's like he forgets what EdE has accomplished. Freel over EdE at 3rd? Wake up Marty. EdE did have a poor April last year and doesn't look so great this spring but he hit .289 and had 76 rbi in 502 at-bats.

Most importantly, he is the undisputed RISP champ of the Reds. After the all-star break: .446/.500/.538/1.038 with risp. That is top-drawer. Even before the all-star break, was .282/.400/.465/.865 which is respectable. And with the bases loaded, his career OPS is 1.339. Another bases loaded stat that I like is that he has 5 walks and only 4 k's in 37 at-bats.

You bat him 6th or 4th, you get Dunn, Hopper, Keppinger, Griffey on base and he will knock them in. He should run more this year. He's very quick 1st to 3rd, home to 2nd, etc..

He also compiled a striking highlight reel with the glove.

I think you take the good with the bad with EdE. Marty just needs to tie a note on his wrist that says EdE Clutch.

 
at 2:52 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Hello DL! LOL Just kidding....



....I HOPE!

 
at 2:52 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Thanks for the weather update,Aaron.It looks really windy from my TV screen,But you can't see which direction the wind is blowing.

 
at 2:55 PM Blogger Unknown said...

With Cueto and EV looking good this spring, would we be more likely to trade Bailey?

I think are rotation could be average to above average this year, but could be dominating in a year or two?

 
at 2:56 PM Blogger NVreds said...

thanks a bunch jack, too bad you couldn't act your age regarding this whole thing.

Cueto did ok getting out of that 1st inning jam, walking the 1st 2 batters in the tigers lineup is a recipe for disaster, he should've given up more runs, good job. affy in the pen is best, he's the only LH we can depend on right now (bray hopefully avoids injury because hes got a better arm)

 
at 2:57 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Matt, I agree, besides BP hes the one "core" guy in this infield.

Sure he makes mistakes, but hes a legitimate evreyday player and will only get better. He and BP are the only guys I dont worry about.

 
at 2:58 PM Blogger Osogato said...

matt, I'm listening to the game at work, and Marty and Jeff were just saying that people talking down on EE this spring should relax because he has started slow the past 2 years. He doesn't really get going until April.

 
at 3:15 PM Blogger Branden said...

gil can hit!! what are the chances hes on the 25 man?

 
at 3:20 PM Blogger RickDinChicago said...

Listening to MLB Gameday Audio of Marty and Welsh today. I'm in Chicago, so no WLW =(

Welsh made a comment that Cueto's early innings struggles were a good learning tool. He'll run into more of those and it's good to learn to rebound early. That to me is exactly what Spring is for. Learn, learn, learn. Sounds like Cueto is a quick study, which, from what I have read, is where he is light years ahead of Bailey.

People bash Bailey left and right... the guy is 20-21? C'mon. Give it some time. He's a universal Top 10 prospect for a reason.

I'd love to see an updated organizational prospect rankings after Spring Training. Based on what I have read, I have:
1) Cueto
2) Bruce
3) Bailey
4) Votto
5) Francisco
6) Stubbs
7) Mesoraco
8) Rosales
9) Roenicke
10) Frazier

Maloney needs work. Lots of talent in this organization.

 
at 3:29 PM Blogger Champ Summers said...

Someone said "great news Affeldt to the pen!!!".

Not really. We realy needed him to step up and get a LH inthe rotation.

It's too bad he's had such a poor spring.

 
at 3:32 PM Blogger Unknown said...

It's one thing to be an established veteran who starts slowly rather than a young player trying to earn and keep a job.

If EE doesn't "get going until April" then he needs to start his spring training early so he's ready on opening day. Maybe play some winter ball.

You don't think it irks the life out of Cubs fans that Zambrano doesn't decide to pitch until about the middle of May? Beginning on opening day, every game counts. April games mean just as much as September games.

I'm not saying you give up on a guy because of a slow start, but you do start tracking patterns, and then working to correct them so we don't go through the same stuff year after year.

 
at 3:36 PM Blogger redsfan8557 said...

http://redsballparkquestionsandanswers.blogspot.com/ guys this blog is for everyone try it out

 
at 3:48 PM Blogger Osogato said...

Edwin actually did play winter ball in the Dominican this winter. And from what I understand, he was tearing it up. Wonder why he's struggling now with the transition back to MLB.

 
at 3:54 PM Blogger Osogato said...

Cueto doubled his ERA with today's outing. Cut him!!!! (Just kidding, he did a really good job of settling down after the rough 1st inning, which shows he doesn't let his emotions rule his pitching).

Cordero gave up 4 hits and 1 run. Cut him!!!! (Just kidding, he also got 2 Ks, and upped his ERA to a respectable 3.00).

 
at 4:01 PM Blogger j-rod said...

it wouldn't be a bad thing to have bailey and belisle in aaa. i would like to see votto up here no matter what but if dusty doesn't think he can help the team in april you'll see him in aaa until he gets going and then he'll be brought up. and dusty wouldn't be foolish for playing it that way.

 
at 4:05 PM Blogger Matt McWax said...

EdE did play winter ball and did average there honestly. Curiously, Edwin's hit well the previous 3 springs. He's just streaky. Judging by his success with runners on, he's capable of succeeding when he's mentally focused. Perhaps that's why Marty gets frustrated because it's a question of mental consistency. He lumps him in with Wily Mo, a guy that showed tremendous flashes. I just don't agree that in this case, the Reds should miss what they have.

Eric Davis in '88 had a similar year to Edwin in '07 (of course with more power in speed). He was horrid in Mar/Apr .179/.317/.274/.591 in 101 pa. In July and August, he was dominant with an OPS over 1.000, even hitting for average.

They both have long swings although Eric's was ridiculously long (but quick), the streakiness is similar. EdE can turn on a pitch better but is more of a low line drive guy. He just gets sloppy and needs to use all fields, something Davis actually did well in his unorthodox way. If EdE finds consistency, he will be a real force and make lots of money.

 
at 4:06 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

John,

Is there some reason Cueto only threw 4?

I was thinking by this time in spring they would be getting him up to 6 or so.

 
at 4:13 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

McCoy said he thinks the reds are shopping Freel.

What would they get for freel?

Reds pitching looks good.Cordero was the only one that gave up a run (after Cueto)& he still did his job in 2 innings .Weathers looked business as usual & Mercker looked really good.

Bullpen Competion looks tough

 
at 4:20 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Champ are you kidding,Affeldt was a longshot for the rotation.He was just sold that lip service to get him to sign. I agree with you about A LH in the rotation but what they reds need is a STUD LH that dominates,not another Mility.More like a Danny Jackson or a Tom Browning.

 
at 4:32 PM Blogger bob said...

bo

 
at 4:36 PM Blogger bob said...

there goes baker again-talking too soon about the 2 pitchers.What a psycologist.He knows how to bolster the others pitchers-essemtially declaring the starting pitchers at this point in time.He sure knows how to make the otjhers feel.What a manager.Hi from Chicago

 
at 4:55 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Bob,

At this point in spring, players need to know their roles. If hes decided, why not say so, so the players can focus on that?

Should these guys only know what role they will be playing just a day or two before opening day?

If he hasnt decided yet, then he cant say, but if he has, he should.

 
at 4:55 PM Blogger Unknown said...

Nice to hear Cuerto is staying calm and getting out of trouble. It is essential for pitchers to be able to handle themselves in difficult situations. Rather give up a run or two getting outs than overthrow, make a mistake, and give up four or five runs. Cuerto continues to be a pleasant surprise. I cant wait for the regular season.

 
at 4:59 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Oh, and Dusty doesnt have to say anything, weve all been paying attention, and anyone of us on this blog new the rotation as early as mid last week.

 
at 5:04 PM Blogger KingsPoint said...

The REDS won 5-3...big deal.

This is the time of Spring Training when the starting lineups are supposed to be set and Baker is sending up as the One and Two Hitters, Patterson and Castro, all of the .298 and .250 On-Base-Percentage.

Baker will screw things up enough times in enough situations that a team that should have challenged for the Division Title will find itself challenged to play .500 all season.

The owners have a little too much Al Davis in them and they need to let Krivsky do his job. Krivsky never would have hired such a poor talent as Baker. What's worse is Baker won't get fired after one or two bad seasons because he's a friend of the owner. REDS' fans will have to go through this for 3 years, at least. Give me Cito Gaston where he puts the 9 best guys out there and leaves them alone.

 
at 5:17 PM Blogger Hiney said...

Kingspoint...love your last post! I agree with every single word of it, I am scared how many times I might see Patterson and Castro 1-2 this year. *Shutter*

If John is still around on this string, I saw in the 'Mailbag' today on MLB.com that Marc established the bullpen as he sees it.

1 - Cordero
2 - Weathers
3 - Burton
4 - Affeldt
5 - Coffey
6 - Mercker
7 - Volquez

This would leave out Bray, Majewski, and Stanton. Is this the way everyone else sees it?

I personally think Stanton will make it - as it Marc also stated - because of his contract, probably taking the last spot. Personally I hope Volquez ends up in the rotation, and we just bounce Belisle. His 180 IP, and 5.00 ERA will be filled just fine by Fogg, thank you very much.

 
at 5:25 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Kingspoint, I agree with SOME of your points, but tell me this, what available manager, that WOULD sign with the Reds should they have hired?

About Patterson and Castro, at one posistion (SS)you have an injury hes trying to sort out, and Kepp played last 2 games.

And CF, hes got 3 choices:

A CF that struggles @ leadoff
(Patterson)

A utility guy that struggles @ leadoff and in CF (Freel)
(especially w/ Dunn in LF / and Griffey in RF)

And a leadoff guy that is OK in center, but has no pop in his bat. (Hopper)

He just has a lack of choices and seems to be going with his guy, that has a .987 feiding % and for one reason or another beleives can lead off.

Note: he does have a higher BA this spring than Freel and Hopper for what its worth

 
at 5:46 PM Blogger KingsPoint said...

KevinFtMyers, Baker should do what the majority of REDS' fans think he should. Not because they think so, but because it's the only common sense thing there is to do. You don't give someone the starting job based upon what they do in Spring Training. Spring Training is a measley 10-day stretch during the regular season (40 at-bats) where you're supposed to be working on fundamentals, not worrying about whether you get a hit or not so you can earn a spot in the lineup.

The REDS' players all have long enough resumes to judge within 10-15% what they will produce in 2008 (pitchers are different to a degree, but not too much). Patterson will have an OBP between .285-.320 and that alone should send him to AAA (unless he's blocking someone else's progress then he should be let go). It doesn't matter what he does in 40 at-bats in Spring Training because he's proven what he does already at the Major League level. It doesn't how many bases he steals if it takes him forever to get on a base. You want his out following a pitcher's out, following Ross' at-bat?

Castro's even worse. He'll have an OBP between .250 and .290. Get out of baseball, dude, and go play with your grandkids (he probably has some). Keppinger needs to be playing every single day at SS working on the double-play combination with Phillips and taking every conceivable situation he can get so that it becomes routine for him two weeks from now. Time is short and Baker's screwing around with the lineup. Baker needs a book..."Lineups for Dummies".

 
at 5:47 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

A better lineup
(but Dusty likes AGON)


Keppinger SS
Hateberg 1B
Griffey RF
Philips 2B
Dunn LF
EE 3B
Patterson CF
catcher
pitcher


Another thaught on Patterson, I like him in CF to get to the MANY balls Dunn and Griff would let drop. Even in GABP with those two in left and right, center field is a big place.

 
at 5:52 PM Blogger Dan H said...

With Affeldt back in the bullpen and assuming Bray is healthy,it comes down to Stanton ($$$$) or Mercker ($). Mercker looked good today in the 9th facing minor leaguers. I feel more confidence with Mercker but will the Reds eat another big contract. First time seeing Cueto and if that was his worst start of spring,he has got to be in the rotation with Volquez,Fogg,Harang,and Arroyo. My pen has Cordero,Weathers,Burton or Coffey,Belisle,Affeldt,Bray,and Mercker.

 
at 5:58 PM Blogger JackBlueAsh said...

spring training all this means nothing..maybe this club will play.500 ball if they are lucky

 
at 6:02 PM Blogger KingsPoint said...

KevinFtMyers, Hopper proved last year that he's an above average CenterFielder defensively, and proved without a doubt that he can hit consistently. His at-bats were 10 times what he's had in Spring Training and were in real game situations against the best players. He's already earned the CF job, and if not him, then give it to Bruce, and let Freel do what he does, give players rest.

As far as a manager goes, there are at least a hundred candidates I'd consider before Baker. I'm sure Krivsky could have come up with many. Didn't he interview others? Those choices would have been better.

 
at 6:04 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Dude?
Keppinger at short everyday?

HMMMM Very interesting!

How do you feel about Hamilton?

About Griffey?

About the pretzels @ GABP?

 
at 6:04 PM Blogger JackBlueAsh said...

by the way Kingspoint..I like your post..you are a wise fan..

keppinger should be in there full time fine tuning with Phillips

castro should be somewhere..else

the good Jack

 
at 6:17 PM Blogger jdeezman said...

Same thing you've posted about a thousand times jack... I'd suggest that if you want to continue to post that you abide by the rules set forth.
I don't want you to be banned (surprisingly enough) so I just thought I'd try to help you out.

Red's fans do that for each other, they don't constantly try to put someone down all the time.

So why don't you try and lighten up jack, stick around for a while. One of us on this blog is going to be wrong about the Reds, and we can all watch whoever it is suck down copious amounts of crow.

 
at 6:19 PM Blogger NVreds said...

jack - Spring training means nothing, yet you would bring up hamiltons ST stats in a heartbeat to prove he's mickey mantle. you really need to work on the hipocritical parts of your arguments.

 
at 6:22 PM Blogger Jeff said...

I thought we got rid of this guy.

 
at 6:25 PM Blogger Stan said...

Fogg will be the no.5 starter. Three or four years ago he was our ace.

Looking up!!

 
at 6:33 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

I think Stanton will be in the bull pen, and hopefully he puts up some really good numbers...

So they can trade him! And not eat his contract.

 
at 6:34 PM Blogger BATSFAN said...

Bronson Arroyo didnt look to good for the Bats 5 innings 7 runs!

 
at 6:40 PM Blogger JackBlueAsh said...

deezman..appreciate your support..but I think u been fighting with the dude that hijacked my name..actually i thought it was funny

spring training is a time for everyone to get their timing down..really nothing more Kingspoint is correct..

the good teams ..both in football and baseball tend to have miserable preseasons much of the time

yet for terrible franchises.. I guess having a winning preseason gives the fans some hope

 
at 6:41 PM Blogger jdeezman said...

You've got that right Stan!

Obviously the powers that be are getting the right people in in the right places. I'm really anxious to see what (if anything) they do to address the catching situation, and whether a contract is more important than performance.
Time will tell, but this is the first time that we've actually had a reason for optimism in quite some time.

 
at 6:46 PM Blogger rob_roy28 said...

kingspoint who are the 100 managers you would have considered?

 
at 6:47 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Good Jack,

You have stated on several ocassions that you have the ability to obtain any posters IP address.

Since there is you (good Jack) and fake (bad) jake would you please consult the archives and provide Fake Jack's IP address, as well as your IP address, and instructions how to do this for anyone who cares.

That should clear this up once and for all.

Thanks, Looking forward to good posts, Kevin in Ft Myers

 
at 7:04 PM Blogger reaganspad said...

Stop with the trade Bailey stuff. We need him to develop at AAA, not be shipped off somewhere on the cheap because of where he is today. Bailey would do well to add 15-20 pounds, and work on his stride consistancy (watch that Harrang video Homer)

The Castro Stuff is funny. Why hit him #2? Because he has produce 9 runs this spring to 5 for Keppinger.

Say what you want about Kepp's bat, but the game is score and prevent runs...not batting average.

I know, Dusty will catch hades on this board for playing the Vet...

Castro today 1-3. That Renteria guy 1-4 with an error

 
at 7:20 PM Blogger JackBlueAsh said...

kevin..john wants us to stick to baseball..move on

 
at 7:35 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Not suprised.

 
at 7:35 PM Blogger JackBlueAsh said...

reds scored well with kepps bat in there the second half of last season reagan.

castro is one of the weakest hitters in baseball

 
at 7:40 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Castro today 1-3. That Renteria guy 1-4 with an error

1-3 Vs the Gambler,

(Kenny Rogers, not a kid trying to make the team)

Respectable

Im not sure why, but it sure seems like Dusty is not gaga over Keppinger.

John, any insight?

 
at 7:46 PM Blogger Grizzlyfox said...

This is bull. Its still the same guy. Ya wanna know how I know? Go to the old posts & click on his name. It will give you the # of times his profile has been viewed. Then click on the good jacks name. It'll be the # you just saw plus one.

 
at 7:51 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Mr.Fay-It was Reds 5 & Tigers 3.You have it the other way around on the thread. Just Thought I'd let you know.

I'm really excited about this season,I know ST is just ST,but the Reds are looking much better than last season.The farm system looks deep ,their are options if someone doesn't work out, & the comepetion for Job's look tough.Therefore pushing guys to work harder.

Very Deep indeed in all angles of the field & batting lineup.With exception of Lead-off.I still think BP would be a good choice up top in the batting order.

RHP Batting order LHP batting Order
1.BP 1.BP
2.Hatty/Votto 2.Hop'sor Freel
3.EE 3.EE
4.KG 4.KG
5.Dunner 5.Dunner
6.Patterson 6.Kepp
7.Kepp 7.Phil/Hat/Vot
8.Bako/Javy 8.Bako/Ross
9.Pitcher 9.Pitcher

I'm sure anyone can come up with a whole slew of ideas.These lineups would obviously be changed due to who's playing,but I think some some spots in the lineup should stay put to provide continuity,last season "musical chairs" with the batting lineup was erratic,annoying,& had negative results.That noise drove me nutz.

 
at 7:54 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Jeff 5:22-Drama sell's.Just ask P & G.

 
at 8:02 PM Blogger REddlegg in Colorado said...

Dan H- I think Belisle & Bailey are going to get sent down.Looks like Roenicke may have a chance at that spot.Mercker over bray, & Stanton get's in due to contract.

 
at 8:02 PM Blogger bearcat1984 said...

Bailey, Belisle, Fogg ??? Are you serious ???

Fogg is the obvious choice FOR RIGHT NOW.

Maybe by this summer, or maybe next year it's Bailey or even Belisle. But right now Fogg clearly is the way to go for the rotation.

Bailey and Belisle (but especially Bailey) need to go work on their stuff. Bailey also needs to work on his attitude.

Harang
Arroyo
Cueto
Fogg
Volquez

Affeldt
Stanton
Bray
Burton
Weathers
Cordero
12. ????

I think this setup might just do the trick for us.

 
at 8:12 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Bearcat,

100 over 100

Totally agree.

 
at 8:13 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

Roenick as 12

 
at 8:20 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

If Bailey gets his "S" together

2009

Harang
Cueto
Arroyo
Volquez
Bailey

 
at 8:21 PM Blogger outtatown tim said...

Kingspoint said

Patterson will have an OBP between .285-.320 and that alone should send him to AAA (unless he's blocking someone else's progress then he should be let go). It doesn't matter what he does in 40 at-bats in Spring Training because he's proven what he does already at the Major League level.

...... sometimes people do change. The starting 2nd baseman for the Reds is a prime example. The Indians thought they had a large enough sample size to know BP. Sometimes ...... never know.

 
at 8:57 PM Blogger BATSFAN said...

Bats are 4-0 in spring traning their going to be so tight this year!

 
at 9:02 PM Blogger KevinFtMyers said...

John,
I realize you may not be available to answer this now, but i will look for something tommorow.

What has Dusty said about Keppinger? Anything about Castro?

I know he wants Gonzo at SS, but in the mean time are we looking at Kepp / Castro platooning, (or pitooning as Pete says) or one of these guys as the interim starter until Gonzo is cleared?

The rotation / pen seem to be shaping up, and I think Patterson will play center. So SS seems like the only "up in the air" posistion.

Please investigate.

Thanks!

 
at 9:14 PM Blogger smtides said...

What kind of pathetic existance leads one to spend hours every day creating new identities and essentially crippling a message board, tying up the Reds beat writer and keeping him from doing his work and sucking the fun out of talking Reds baseball with other Reds fans?

 
at 9:24 PM Blogger reaganspad said...

Oh Come on outtatowntim:

Brandon Phillips will NEVER change. Oh Wait.

Patterson reminds me a lot of Phillips talent. The move reminds me of the same kind of BP pick up.

low risk, high ceiling. great call

 
at 9:34 PM Blogger reaganspad said...

Jack, Interesting that you never address the fact that Ross, AGon, Hatte and Kepp all create runs at the same rate regardless of their BA. And Ross contributes defensively

I really like Keppinger, but for someone to claim they are a realist, and then view this role player, let go by 2 teams as a starting ML shortstop is beyond me. And everyone else...

Now Todd Coffey, who has performed for and entire ML Season is having a great spring. Good to see him back in 2006 form. 0.00

 
at 10:21 PM Blogger redsfan8557 said...

Cant we all get along

 
at 10:45 PM Blogger Dan H said...

Redlegg, you probably are correct with Stanton and his contract ,I just like Mercker better. I disagree on Roenicke, Belisle makes the team as long reliever. Mercker over Bray,tough call, Bray probably has options left however. The question I have is what do you do with Freel,Andy Phillips, Cabrera,Keppinger, Green,Gil,Castro. They can't all make the team. Does Votto make the cut. Still some questions without clear cut answers. Could there be a trade? Less than 2 weeks to opening day.

 
at 11:13 PM Blogger reaganspad said...

redlegg in colorado.
I agree that Belisle and Bailey should be at AAA based on this spring.

Mercker, Bray and Stanton will all make it. Roenicke can use some minor time, unless there is some sort of trade. Nice to have options for the pen

 
at 12:11 AM Anonymous Anonymous said...

John - I have a friend who is a scout for the Royals, he was in town this week for a funeral and while all of us were at the bar later, we started talking baseball, of course. Now our small area has seen some good players make it.. Clint Barmes, Jamey Carrol, Nevin Ashley, Don Mattingly and Scott Rolen to name a few.. Anyway, he said the Reds have made it well known that Ryan Freel and Matt Belisle are available, is this so? Would they give up on Belisle after only one year at a starting effort? He also stated the conception around baseball is that Homer Bailey is a smart-ass, know-it-all who is uncoachable and refuses to change anything about his game, or risk his career by listening to the cather in any situation... do you get this impression from him? Just curious..

 
at 2:34 AM Blogger Unknown said...

John,

I read your blog every day. Every single day for over a year at least. I love reading about the Reds as up to date as possible....I find it amazing how many spelling errors I see on a consistent basis. Tonight was the kicker....I'm sure you know how to spell all of these things. They're probably just typing errors...but they happen a lot. Tonight's was "troible"...it just looks bad. I know "i" and "u" are right next to each other on the keyboard. Do you get to proof-read anything before posting? Also: "Johnny Cueto showed Monday that he could get the job done against a very good lineup on Monday"...Monday is in there twice. It is difficult to read when there are mistakes that are this obvious. I never wanted to say anything, but I couldn't help it this time. I am only saying this to make your blog better and for it to look like there is a professional writer behind it.

 
at 7:19 AM Blogger Mr. Doom and Gloom said...

good stuff on stanton john. hope he can rebound, but if not right away, i hope they don't make the mistake of cutting him in april or early may, and just eating that salary. i think he could bring something in a trade, even if it;s just organizational filler (catchers please!!!) the guy's got a track record and someone will give him a shot.

one more stanton question.. has he ever addressed the mitchell report? i don't think he should be allowed to skate with a "no comment" all year, i hope he has the stones to talk about why his name's in there.

 
at 12:07 PM Blogger Lish said...

Can anyone tell me where I can find complete and current spring training player stats....... for the life of me, I cannot find them anywhere.

Thanks

 
at 12:08 PM Blogger Lish said...

Can anyone tell me where I can find complete and current spring training player stats....... for the life of me, I cannot find them anywhere.

Thanks

 
at 2:10 PM Anonymous Anonymous said...

Eric,

I know the reds website and their page on espn'g mlb site have ST stats. they should be as current as possible.

 
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