Reds Insider: Kepp's streak ends

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Kepp's streak ends

Joe Smith, the Amelia High and Wright State product, struck out Jeff Keppinger in the eight inning to end his streak of seven straight hits and streak of reaching base eight straight times.

Smith fell behind 3-0. Keppinger took two strikes and then swung through an inside sinker.

“That’s a lot of hits in a short period of time,” Dusty Baker said. “That’s one of the best runs I’ve ever seen there.”

From the Reds: Keppinger’s 7 straight hits are the most by a Reds batter since Adam Dunn produced hits in 7 consecutive at bats from 7/26-7/27 of last season at Houston. No Reds batter has produced more than 7 straight hits since Dmitri Young had hits in 9 consecutive AB from 6/27-6/29, 2001.

More Keppinger:
Reaching via hit, walk, or HBP (consecutive plate apps)
8 (7h, 1bb), Jeff Keppinger, 5/10-5/11, 2008 at NYM
9 (7h, 2bb), Adam Dunn, 7/26-7/27, 2006 at Hou
10 (9h, 1bb), Dmitri Young, 6/27-6/29, 2001
13, Barry Larkin, 5/25-5/27, 1997 (club record)
14, National League record, Pedro Guerrero, 7/23-7/26, 1985

84 Comments:

at 3:57 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

Thanks John its about time you give this solid ballplayer the blog recognition that he deserves

I see an all star

at 4:10 PM

redfuture said...

Baker did the 'out of order' thing against the Reds while managing the Cubs too. What a manager!

at 4:23 PM

will said...

Hes been hitting well this year. Prob the most consistant hitter on this team. But allstar? By my cound theres five maybe six shortstops in the NL that are offensivly better so far this year. Heck while where at it why dont we hrow his name in the MVP race as well.

at 4:23 PM

BubbaFan said...

I can't wait to hear the explanation for that batting out of order screwup.

And who gets credit for the Patterson putout?

at 4:32 PM

Closer Doug Bair said...

This team is now officially a "train wreck," with players batting out of order and neither the coaches or the manager noticing that the players are batting out of order. Also, who is the player that should have been batting, none other than Corey Patterson.

It is time to shake things up, or the season will be lost (if it isn't already). Jocketty needs to do the following ASAP: 1) Demote Belisle to AAA, 2) Release Corey Patterson, 3) Trade Griffey to Seattle, 4) Promote Bruce, and 5) Start Affeldt in place of Belisle.

at 5:11 PM

sabr_blogger said...

From rotoworld:

"Though Corey Patterson was supposed to be at the plate, David Ross batted out of order in the ninth inning of an 8-3 loss to the Mets on Sunday.

What is this, Little League? Per MLB rules, Ross has to complete his at-bat to be ruled out, and the outcome of his at-bat is then discarded with no runners allowed to advance. The Mets allowed him to do so, and since he lined out to right there was little harm done. Ross was the batter listed in the order after Patterson, so he was forced to come back to the plate for his 'real' at-bat and Patterson was charged the out. Ross singled after returning to the batter's box. There's almost too many jokes here for us to enjoy. Corey Patterson making outs even when he's not at-bat is just one of them. As if their wasn't already overwhelming evidence that Dusty Baker is a horrible manager, this just adds more fuel to the fire."

at 5:19 PM

chris111 said...

I just got back from the game at Shea and to say the Reds were lethargic is an understatement! Let the fire sale begin!As much as people complain about Freel, at least he tries.. Jr. doesn't even jog much less run and his defense is awful at best. Dunn=wet bag of rice!?*# Also how can Bako and Votto go from so good to so bad in three games. Lets face it this season is a done deal!

at 5:21 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

Just a little note: Had Willie Randolph not said anything after Ross flied out and Corie Patterson then came to the plate, he could have then spoken up and had Ross declared out for batting out of turn also.
ST CSA

at 5:23 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

John it appears that you may be minority in your failure to recognizes Griffeys lack of hustle and diminishing ability

at 5:28 PM

redfuture said...

I'm so tired of the Griffey era! There has been no fire ever since he arrived. I appreciate that he is a good family man but so are many of the fans. If he doesn't want to talk about himself during interviews and such why not talk about team and other players and such. There is no passion for team, for family yes but for team no. This team has sunk even deeper due to Dusty's urging of Griffey & Dunn to take leadership roles. Dusty has been around long enough to know better or should have been. You can't make a dishrag be a leader, it has to be someone passionate about the game.

at 5:28 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

- Baker doesn't have a clue. That lineup was ridiculous and the batting out of turn, well that just says it all.
+ Lou Piniella is a good manager in Chicago.
St CSA

at 5:32 PM

dan said...

I also just returned from the game at Shea, and was really embarrassed to be there with my Reds hat on. We have no offense outside of Kepp and EE (Dunn, as much as I like him, just looks awful up there...Larue-esque at the moment).

My favorite part of the day though was the whole batting out of order trick. Why? Because on the gigantic scoreboard in center they have each team's batting order on display. And guess what? It had ours correctly (with CP first then Ross) prior to the Reds batting in the 9th. So everyone in the whole stadium could see that the Reds were out of order when Ross went up there to bat. Unbelievable.

at 5:45 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

- "So everyone in the whole stadium could see that the Reds were out of order when Ross went up there to bat. Unbelievable."

.....LMAO, I hope Bob Castellini was there. If not, I'm sure he watched it somewhere. This team is fast becoming a laughing stock not just a loser.

+ Davey Johnson might be available.

St CSA

at 5:46 PM

redfuture said...

I remember Bob Castellini saying after one of his firings that he may have to fire himself. Since he won't really do that at least do the next best thing, admit your mistakes and do something about it pronto. Fire Dusty and bring back Mackanin and bench or release any players who don't like it.

at 5:50 PM

redfuture said...

Dunn's remaining days as a Red should be spent as a pinch hitter. Nothing wrong with that. If pinch hitting was good enough for Jerry Lynch and Art Shamsky then it certainly should be good enough for Dunn. There is a reason some guys are pinch hitters like poor defensive play and inability to hit lefthanders. Nothing wrong with that, nobody is perfect.

at 6:08 PM

redfuture said...

John,

I hope you remember the story you wrote about the last time Dusty messed up the double-switch and it was against the Reds on 4/16/2004. Coach Jerry Narron is the one who caught it. Bring back Jerry, or Pete, or Dave anybody but Dusty or Boone!
Here is the link:
http://reds.enquirer.com/2004/04/17/red1nte.html

at 6:19 PM

redfuture said...

I George Steinbrener was man enough to re-hire poeple he had fired, like Billy Martin and Gene Michaels, so should Bob.

at 6:35 PM

redfuture said...

I'm going to chalk up these losses to "just Dusty being Dusty".

at 6:40 PM

Joe said...

Streaks - the Reds need a hot streak. They need to win 10 or 11of their next 15. Easier said than done considering who is coming in, FLA and CLE. Then it is off to CA for 7 with LAD and SD. Didn't say it would be easy but they need it.

Not sure I would put Keppinger in the All Star game just yet. The way things are shaping up, the only Red I see getting much attention or consideration is Volquez. I vote for EE just because I like the kid and Phillips. Both of them have some competition at their positions that is also pretty good too.

at 6:41 PM

Red Heat said...

you are leaving out Bip Roberts' 10 consecutive HITS in 1992 which is tied for the NL record
AND
you are also forgetting Billy Hatcher's 7 consecutive in the '90 WS...

at 6:47 PM

redfuture said...

What are the chances of Spring Training 2009 starting next year with Dunn still an unsigned free agent? Ahh, some team will gamble on him at $1.85M next year.

at 6:51 PM

John Fay said...

That's straight from the Reds. They're not listed in order of longest streak. It's longest "since"

at 6:55 PM

redfuture said...

I bet the old ballpark will be filled with eager fans tomorrow night!

at 6:59 PM

INDYREDFAN said...

i might be crazy but I think Chris Stynes had a 11 for 11 streak when he was with the reds.

at 7:05 PM

ST fan said...

Isn't Chris Spier the "bench coach?" Batting out of order batting is his blunder???

at 7:48 PM

jerchio said...

This team is a embarrassment for the 1st time that I have been a reds fan in 35 years,This team from top down is total disarray and the mental errors are just disgusting I have no desire to watch right now and go through a bottle of tums a game

at 8:00 PM

JF said...

This team can't run the bases, can't field, can't bunt, can't think clearly, can't play fundamentally sound baseball, and can't manage to outplay the Pirates.

I'm surprised no one has batted out of turn earlier. Did we manage to have a zero picked-off game?

Congrats. Great job Dusty. You're such a genius.

at 8:09 PM

Anonymous said...

Bubbafan,

I am pretty sure the catcher gets credit for the putout when there's a batting out of order debacle.

~Mike

at 8:22 PM

Closer Doug Bair said...

I initially approved the hiring of Dusty as manager, and it appeared that Spring Training was much more organized and business-like than in past years, which seemed to validate my opinion regarding the hiring of Dusty.

However, I am very dismayed at the state of the team, and his seeming inability to effectively manage or lead this team. His batting orders do not make any sense, and his handling of the pitching staff has also been questionable, at best.

With the exception of the Pittsburgh series, this team played very well under Pete Mackanin, and he seemed to effectively lead this team after Jerry Narron was fired. As you recall, Pete's batting orders made sense, and the team responded to his leadership approach. While I agree that there is no way that Dusty will be fired this season unless his three-year contractis compromised by agreement, something needs to be done ASAP.

Therefore, if I was Jocketty, I would also consider replacing Brook Jacoby as the hitting coach. The team appears stagnant and with the exception of a couple of player, they seem to be going through the motions. If there is not a mini-shakeup soon, this season will be completel lost, if it is not already.

Except for the first week, this season has been a complete disaster. Didn't Mr. Castellini say, "We're just not going to lose anymore." Due to Jocketty's inaction, the team has actually played worse since the firing of Krivsky.

at 8:31 PM

Anonymous said...

WE WANT BRUCE CHANT DURING THE BOTTOM OF THE 1ST INNING AT TOMS GAME GET THE WORD OUT TO ANYONE YOU KNOW THAT WILL BE AT THE GAME

at 8:32 PM

Clinton said...

Get Jack McKeon out of retirement, although he's 77 and will be 78 a month after the world series! Still shocked 7 years later that a 85-77 season got him fired "because we were supposed to go far with Griffey" in 2000.

We're doing pretty bad in pitching but I still think it's best to leave Bailey down at AAA. We don't need a train wreck like Belisle has been. Sure he may be better than Belisle but let Homer get some confidence.

At this hour, we're tied with Colorado for the third worst record. The second worst record is suprising Seattle, (didn't know they were sucking but Texas has a winning streak and has passed them). San Diego is still the worst, even with Peavy. We're only a 1/2 game worse than the $138M Detroit.

Florida will be a test because at this hour, with the seven game winning streak, they ARE the best team in the MLB at the moment passing Arizona and St Louis.

at 8:38 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

= QUOTE FROM DUSTY BAKER:
"The guys hit out of order, and it's my job to catch that," Baker said. "So I take full responsibility.

ST CSA

at 8:49 PM

Firefly said...

Why is Patterson still on this team? Why is Belisle still on this team? Why is Baker, with his love of veterans, still on this team? When are they going to take "steal at will" away from Freel?

at 8:53 PM

robby said...

I refrained the entire winter from entering the Dusty Baker discussion, because I wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. But after today I am absolutely convinced that hiring him was a huge mistake. Castellini's batting average on baseball decisions has fallen below the Mendoza line.

Everyone talking about moving Griffey and Dunn should realize by now that the Reds may be stuck with both of them until the end of the year. If you were a GM would you trade anything for either one of them given their salaries.

It's kind of sad to watch Griffey play. One has to wonder if he won't retire at season's end. He was a wonderful player.

at 9:13 PM

JerBear said...

I was all for bringing up Bruce and Bailey...but now I'm wondering, if you're this bad what is the point in rushing them?

I don't think Bailey's quite ready. And Bruce strikeouts out quite a bit, plus I've heard that is defense is not too exceptional. (Not terrible I was told, but average.)

But then again...I can see someone saying why not just let them learn at the big league level. They're gonna be here anyway eventually.

So it's a tough decision. Either way I'd be fine with the decision. I just hope Hopper gets a chance in center once he's healthy if Bruce is kept in Triple A

at 9:51 PM

Steven Ross said...

JF: Freel was picked off. He broke for 2nd but was a dead duck when Perez threw to Delgado who then made the throw to 2nd. Down by 5 in the 7th, Votto up and he attempts to steal. Hello? I like agressiveness and hustle but that was just plain stupid. Freel's making a habit of it.

at 9:58 PM

Middie said...

Those pesky Marlins in town for four games with their 7 game win streak and best record in baseball plus their 20 mil. payroll versus the Reds 74 mil. They've got rid of Josh Beckett, Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis, Derick Lee, etc. and gone with the Youth Movement. Taking notice Reds management?

at 10:11 PM

Matty G said...

When I look at the standings and see the Pirates(!!) 3 games ahead of us and just 2 games under .500; I throw up. Where does this end? Are we a 100-loss team?

at 10:14 PM

Phill said...

Demanding a player be brought it up is pretty lame and anyone chanting that is a fool. If a whole organization says he needs to be down there and work on things at that level then he needs to be down there. This team will lose just as much with a RF playing CF who's batting depends soley on hitting the ball and nothing else...oh wait that's just a Corey Patterson with less range. Homer wasn't ready, Bruce isn't ready. Quit trying to rush crap for no reason. Learn some patience and when you learn some, teach it to Bob Castelini.

at 10:16 PM

mentalmidget said...

After my major meltdown with my profanity laced comments about Jr. & Dunn being there for the paycheck only,,, and being the laziest players in MLB, now I feel Dusty Baker is proving to be an inept mgr.!! That's a very bad combination. Let's not forget Pole and Jacoby and Spier and their roles with this team. I REALLY haven't seen Baker manage this season. He's in love with Patterson, tolerating bull$$$t baserunning blunders, won't move Jr. down in the lineup, just to name a few.....

This team is in sorry, sorry shape. BC and/or Jocketty should suck it up and re-hire McKanin. This man worked at managing, had a real passion and, for the most part, pulled the right strings. Our Beloved Reds seemed to respond to him. I think BC felt he had to hire a "name" mgr. Now fire this "name" mgr" and hire the "no name",,Pete McKanin!!! Yes, I know, I mispelled Pete's last "no name"!!

One more thing; HIRE SOTO AS PITCHING COACH!!!!!!

at 12:12 AM

JerBear said...

Will Javier Valentin ever start another game? I know Paul Bako has hit pretty well, but another of Dusty Baker's mistakes is just completely disregarding Javier Valentin.

He hasn't had more then 2 at-bats in a game since April 16th I believe is what I saw. Valentin had some big hits last year for the Reds and can get big hits in spurts. But Valentin only has 3 at-bats in May...all pinch hits.

I feel sorry for Valentin and Hopper. I'm not putting the blame for the Reds woes on Baker. I think that's silly. But I think he's really misjudged a couple player's abilities.

I remember Baker saying in spring training how it was kind of a clean slate for everyone and he wasn't really looking at past stats to decide who would play. It sounded kind of good, but it also kind of signaled the Baker didn't have a good read on the current personnel coming in.

The signing of Patterson, and the lack of playing time for Hopper and Valentin have been Baker's biggest mistakes in my opinion.

With that being said...if you're calling for Baker's head then I have to question if you've followed the Reds for the last 8 years!

The manager aint the problem! He might not be the best solution for this team, but they need to keep Baker for a couple years and add some stability to the Reds.

Narron, Miley, Bob Boone, Mackanin....Dusty Baker. You really think they were all terrible managers? Was Lou Pinella a terrible manager in Tampa Bay? It's more an organizational and lack of players problem with the Reds over the years than a manager problem.

at 12:41 AM

BubbaFan said...

Thanks, Mike!

at 12:47 AM

Anonymous said...

I went to the game today, sitting on the 1B side. My mother watched it on TV and told me Keith Hernandez was drawing a lot of paralels between Cueto and Soto when he was in his prime. One in particular they should probably watch out for is that Cueto apparently has a temper.

I had a feeling at the start that Cueto was not yet ready. I think he should be sent down more than Belisle, if for no other reason than Cueto still has time to get it right and Belisle might not be given many more chances.

And I still maintain that Dick Pole has no business being in charge of this pitching staff. He's done a horrid job and it's clear he is not communicating with the pitchers. It would make sense to have Soto there instaed, for the sake of Cueto and Volquez. And also, considering how the Louisville pitchers are doing great and how evry pitcher who got sent down last year also excelled before being brought back up, maybe Ted Power should be given serious consideration.

Jacoby needs to go too. He was an AL player his whole career (except for a month with the Braves). He's teaching an AL style of hitting to an NL team. The best choice would be Tony Perez. Wonder if the Marlins would be willing to "trade" him.

As for Baker...losing track of the game like that. What, is he bored? He's been in the game for 40 years or so. He should know better. Maybe he should just retire if he's not into it anymore. Having him sleepwalk thru the season will not bring a winning spirit

at 12:47 AM

Aaron Simms said...

I was at the game on Sunday. Absolutely embarrassing and I'm not just referring to the ninth. Regardless, I had my reds hat on and jersey, and got harassed, but still walked away a fan. Yet it's become increasingly obvious we are not a sound team. Fundamentally as individuals or as a unit. Lack of communication on the field. No energy in the club. They're trying hard. But there's no life. No joy shared being a Cincinnati Red. Nor to be a baseball player. And that's something no fan wants to be a part of.

at 12:56 AM

Phill said...

Pete Mackinin has a job. He's a scout in the Yankees front office. Mario Soto also has a job of his own.

Just because you want someone to be hired doesn't mean it's plausible or even possible.

at 7:40 AM

JackBlueAsh said...

I see Hamilton got 2 more hits yesterday..now batting over .300

We might just go to GABP to see Cantu this evening

Baker was the wrong hire..Hes a good guy.

But if any of you followed him on ESPN last year..just a little lost

JBA

at 9:05 AM

Steven Ross said...

Reds are a train-wreck. I try to remain optimistic but after watching yesterday's complete ineptitude, I'm convinced this team needs a major overhaul.

I like Freel but has to be the least intelligent runner on the bases. Bako's had a nice season but he was lost vs. Perez. Ross should have started. How in the wide-wide world of common sense baseball does Dusty bat Keppinger 7th? Nobody understood the logic. Dumb! Votto in the 2-hole? Why? I don't get it. Blow it up!

at 9:22 AM

Rob Dicken said...

Besides Arroyo finally pitching good, and Kepp's streak (BTW, he will NOT be an All-Star)...this team played like crap. 20+ runs given up in 3 games. Absolutely horrific.

at 9:23 AM

KevinFtMyers said...

"Thanks John its about time you give this solid ballplayer the blog recognition that he deserves"

"I see an all star"

Keppinger deserves it, but it is unlikely at best.

Noone outside of the tristate knows who Keppinger is, and lets not forget, the fans vote for allstars.

Also, he would have to be at least the 3rd best (and best known) SS to get in.
A few of his competitors:

Jose Reyes (in the #1 market, a shoe in)#1 in 2007 vote

Hanley Ramierez (leads all SS in hitting and is in the NL east which includes the largest markets who are seeing him all year)

Jimmy Rollins (in the NL east which includes the largest markets who are seeing him all year)(Oh and hes pretty good too)4th in 2007 vote

Rafael Furcal (not as impresive as he once was, but still a top tier guy and hes in LA, he will get most west coast votes)3rd in 2007

JJ Hardey (will likely get midwest votes) 2nd in 2007 vote

Anyway, Kepp may edge out guys like Hardy or Furcal, but wont get enough votes to get in. SS is just s tough spot to get in from,

Votto doesnt have a great chance either with Pujols, Howard, and Prince Fielder in the mix, (not to mention D Lee and Carlos Delgado), oh and dont forget Jorge Cantu, (LMAO)

at 9:39 AM

Mr. Redlegs said...

Before you fantasy-leaguers should discuss firing Baker and rehiring his predecessor, it's highly suggested by older, wiser people with MLB logic, common sense and savvy that you first come up with $10.5 million to pay off Baker six weeks into the job and spell Mackanin's name correctly before rehiring him since he couldn't even get an on-field this past offseason.

at 9:47 AM

Unknown said...

JF, I'm just tired of hoping anything about any of Cincy's pro sports teams. They're just not worth the effort.

There'll be no trips to GABP in the foreseeable future.

at 10:10 AM

HoosierRedsFan said...

I have a question for Phil. Just what does MLB's Minor League Player of the Year have to prove in Louisville? That's what I thought, NOTHING!

at 10:35 AM

JF said...

Hire Soto as MANAGER.

Dusty is really a waste of money. I told you all that once the honeymoon wore off, you'd be regretting the most awful hire the Reds have made in decades.

Dusty McNarron is more over-rated than a barrel full of Arroyos.

at 10:43 AM

Jeff said...

How much longer is it going to take Walt or whoever to DFA Belisle and bring up Homer. If they are sticking with Cueto through rough patches, why not bring up Homer and let him cut his teeth up here? God this team is looking sorry lately.

at 10:56 AM

Brandon said...

How about Frank Robinson as hitting coach also. He and Soto could be a big help.

at 11:07 AM

Brad said...

Under Krivsky 9-12 (.429)
Under Jockerty 6-11 (.353)

Good thing we're not going to lose anymore!

Show some freaking emotion! When you go out and get the explanation that you had somebody bat out of order, come back to the dugout and throw the gatorade jug, or rip out the bats. Do a Hal McRae or a Ozzie Guillen one time. Remember last year what turned the Cubs around - Lou went ballistic. Dusty - show your team and coaches that it's not okay to bat out of order, to get picked off every game, to leave 15 places on base! Your reaction yesterday was accepting of the situation. It might be with you, but it's not with us.

at 11:55 AM

robby said...

I wasn't calling for Baker to be fired. That would be as crazy as firing your GM less than two months before the draft. My point was, and is, Baker is not the guy for the job at hand. Another in the long list of mistakes by the owner, who says the Reds aren't going to lose anymore.

On another front Homer Bailey is not the pitcher the Reds organization would have led you to believe he was a couple years ago. One can only hope the problem is Bailey and not the organization's inability to develop talent. It doesn't bode well if the player development capabilites of the organization are still below par.

at 12:01 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

I am appalled at all of these negative comments about the beloved Cincinnati Reds. I told you all of this a month ago, some of it last season.

I guess my 17 negative comments don't look quite so out of perspective now, do they John?

St CSA

at 12:06 PM

John Fay said...

I'll give you credit on two fronts CSA: You come up with new stuff and retain your sense of humor.

Guess I'll see you out there tonight in the Cantu jersey.

at 12:19 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

LMAO, that would be me John, hope he has a big night or i'll get ripped 50 times on here tomorrow.
St CSA

at 12:25 PM

Rob Dicken said...

I have quietly kept my mouth shut about the Dusty Baker hiring, HOPING that it wouldn't blow up in the faces of the Reds...but just like everything recently, it has.

Did anyone else see the interview on FSN Ohio where Dusty Baker said that baseball wasn't his first love (football is)? Why in the world would you want a manager that doesn't have the desire to actually be one? From that comment, that makes it look as though Baker is just a manager in baseball to collect a paycheck, not because he actually wants to be here.

The Reds should've kept Pete...at least he knew how to handle the young guys, the bullpen, and was winning games with the crappy team the Reds had last year.

If BC was smart, he'd get on the horn and call Davey Johnson, Jack McKeon, or Pete McKannin IMMEDIATELY.

The talent is there to win baseball games...the desire IS NOT. Desire = a combination of discipline, leadership, and motivation. Just like with Jerry Narron, there isn't any of that stuff.

Look at this way...at least the Cyclones are winning!! Pretty sad that the only winning team we have in Cincinnati, is a minor league hockey team.

at 12:44 PM

KevinFtMyers said...

Well, I took the weekend off from the Reds, did a family mini vacation over the weekend. It feels pretty good, Im refreshed and feeling more objective.

Dusty wet the bed on the batting order fiasco, its certainly inexcusable, the only thing I can offer in his defense is the fact that hes run so many different lineups out to try and find a solution for not hitting, hes probably just goofy about it.

Ross deserves some blame too, but he should have never gotten as far as the batters box before somebody (anybody) called him back.

Anyway, Dusty isnt getting fired, so its as pointless to say so as giving Cantu updates.

Call him an idiot, say you hate him, but he isnt going anywhere.

I think Pole and Jacoby may be in a different boat.

As far as Jocketty not doing anything, you guys must think he can just call any GM, demand what he wants and send his player a plane ticket.

Give him time, any trade is a multi million dollar business deal with far reaching implecations, lets be sure about what were doing, this season is lost anyway.

Bringing guys up? Bailey and Bruce are the only guys that could come up and possibly make a difference and we know Bruces situation, hell be up soon, Bailey, WJ has to have somewhere to put him, I suppose this may be coming after moving Fogg.

Trust me, Im pissed too, but were kind of in this limbo of a dead time for trades etc.., it sucks, but this too shall pass.

To everyone at their wits end, skip a few games, it will help.

at 12:48 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

great post CSA

at 12:48 PM

KevinFtMyers said...

To Jack in Blue Ash,

Here is a link to a site that sells I love Hamilton T shirts, right up your alley.

http://www.myhamilton.ca/NCF/shopping/product.aspx?CatalogName=hamilton&ProductID=souvenir004&Variant_ID=hamtshirtmed&lang=en-CA

at 12:58 PM

Mr. Redlegs said...

I'm not enamored of Dick Pole's work with these pitchers, but Mario Soto is way too valuable in the system to make him pitching coach. Soto has been working with young pitchers from the time they get into the system, learning to throw that circle change and also refine their fastballs. He's especially valuable to the Hispanic players and . . . well . . . pitching coaches have minimal impact on the big-league level. But on the development end? They're gold.

Ted Power is the guy who deserves the promotion.

at 1:06 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

The talent is not there to win many ballgames nor has it been for the past 7 plus years

Rob Oester would have been a better manager for this group of players

CSA ..we are going this evening..as walkups..I hope there are some tickets available

JAB

at 1:33 PM

Thad said...

Double switches are the Bench coach's responsibility. Word is that Mazzone wants a job, we should do whatever we can to get him on board.

Kepp is the man and he HAS to stay in the lineup.

at 1:38 PM

redfuture said...

Wow! Matt Maloney has already thrown a complete game (albeit 7 innings) shutout today with Louisville. That's his 2nd straight solid effort.

at 1:40 PM

redfuture said...

Oh, by the way. Bruce was 4 for 4 with a HR and 2 doubles today!

at 1:42 PM

redfuture said...

Maloney's game today was only 2 outs away from being a no-hitter!

at 1:56 PM

Steven Ross said...

Can't find fault with most of the posts. I was a Dusty Baker fan but now I'm wondering if he has a clue. Honestly, I could pencil-in a more logical batting order. Too early to fire him but Jacoby is another issue. Somebody new has to take another fall.

Krivsky was the sacrifical lamb so who's next? Players included. The list is endless.

at 2:01 PM

In Dusty We Trust said...

Why isn't it as obvious to Bob and Walt as it is to the rest of the world that Dusty is simply clueless?

Signing Baker to a big contract is the biggest mistake this franchise has made in a long time...and there are plenty of mistakes to compare it to.

Blow it up, starting from the top. Bring in a manager who knows how to work with and develop young players, knows a thing or two about getting the batting order correct, and perhaps knows the rules of the game...then let the kids play - 2008 is lost, we all know it. This team will lose 100 games on it's current course - why not lose 110 and let some kids get the experience.

I don't mind being embarrassed, but at least give me an out by letting me blame it on a youth movement...right now, this is simply pathetic.

at 2:09 PM

Phill said...

HoosierRedsFan,

Bruce needs to learn how to take a walk. The guy is batting over .300 with an OBP just a few points above his batting average. I understand that people can get away with it(Brandon Phillips) but look at Corey Patterson. His OBP relies heavily on his BA. He also needs to cut down on his strikeout rate. You might think no big deal right now but when he faces the big league pitchers there's a good chance it'll be even more of a problem.

In another note people are putting to much stock in managers that 'blow up'. Yes Jim Leylands "No BS" attitude is certainly helping what should be the best offense in the majors.

The Minor leagues are for developement. Dick Pole isn't there to teach these guys how to pitch. He's there to help them make minor adjustments based on their results. Make sure they're ready for their next start. Settle them down during games. That type of stuff.

at 2:13 PM

Mr. Doom and Gloom said...

watched about 2 innings all weekend, happened to be yesterday early when Cueto walked Oliver Perez.

they had a shot of Dick Pole in the dugout next to Dustbag. looked like Dustbag was actually paying attention at that point, seemed perturbed, started pacing a little, got up on the rail. freaking Pole just sat there, not saying a word...facial expression never even changed.

good lord man, if we're sentenced to 3 years of the Dustbag in the dugout cause of that ridiculous contract they sure as hell had better get some coaches in there that can help him out a little bit.

and how in the hell does patterson go from standing on deck when the last out is made in the 8th to watching ross lead-off the 9th without realizing something is amiss?

at 2:17 PM

JF said...

Kepp is the man. True

the ULTIMATE responsibility for batting in the proper order belongs to both the players and the manager--I don't buy the excuse that the bench coach has the only working brain on the field, although often that's quite believable with this sorry group.

It's Dusty's team, and they're playing like it!

at 2:31 PM

Rob Dicken said...

The talent is not there to win many ballgames nor has it been for the past 7 plus years

That's about as insightful as stating Keppinger will be an All-Star.

You really need to read. It will do wonders for you...TRUST ME!

Peter Gammons and the whole ESPN staff were giving the Reds major props at the beginning of the season mentioning that they would be in contention with the Cubs and Brewers for the NL Central title.

As I said, the talent is there to win, but the desire is not. Not to mention the lack of quality management. Here's a little dose of your own medicine...what is is, Jack.

at 2:56 PM

Anonymous said...

It's acknowledged that they can't fire Baker without paying him off big time. That's not financially doable. But they could at least challenge him and ask him if he really wants to be there. They should also fire Pole, Speier, Lopez (all Baker favorites) and Jacoby and bring in coaches who would be a better fit with the players. Sometimes players cannot be coached by just anyone. Sometimes personalities don't match up. Remember Vern Rapp? Had some success as a minor league manager, thought to be good with young players. The Reds hired him and soon found out no one could stand him.

And as for the asinine idea that Davey Johnson or Jack McKeon could come back and turn this into a winning team----GET IN TOUCH WITH REALITY, PEOPLE! I will agree Schott fired Johnson for a truly trivial reason. But it was a good thing she did it when she did. It would only be a matter of time before his abrasive personality set the team to fighting amongst themselves, just as Johnson's Mets did in the late 80s. As you remember, Johnson didn't last long in LA or Baltimore either. And as for McKeon, there's another pleasant personality right there. He's worse than Baker when it comes to giving younger players a shot. Why do you think the Marlins fired him after he won the series? Same with his time with the Padres.

at 3:13 PM

Another losing season said...

the talent is there to win, but the desire is not.

Which is what makes this year's effort so intolerable.

at 3:26 PM

KevinFtMyers said...

"The talent is not there to win many ballgames nor has it been for the past 7 plus years"

This from someone who evaluates talent from a box score!

Talent:
Harang
Cueto
Volquez
EE
Kepp
Phillips
Votto

Thats 3/5 of the rotation, and the entire infield. Plus guys down on the farm. Pretty talented team.

Unfortunately, a few bad apples (players and coaches) have spoiled the bunch.

When we get some coaches and players in here that give a damn, the talent will flourish.

This team has the makings of a perrenial contender, its just dysfunctional right now because of the "bad apples".

Naysayers might say
"With all of that talent their record is what?"

But by that logic, Barry Sanders must not have been talented either.

at 3:31 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

if the talent was there ..we would be winning

wow Peter Gammons and the whole ESPN staff..guess Peter Gammons and the entire ESPN staff were wrong?

Huh?

at 3:49 PM

JackBlueAsh said...

we lost Josh Hamilton..offensively we are not much different than last year

Volquez and Cueto are essentially rookie pitchers..only real addition is Cordero whom we dont use..the Foggs ,Affeldts are no better than what we had last year.

we went 72-90 last year ..why expect different results this year.

sorry..the talent really is not there... thats a fashionable excuse for people that have become accustomed to losing

JBA

at 5:21 PM

Rob Dicken said...

And as for McKeon, there's another pleasant personality right there. He's worse than Baker when it comes to giving younger players a shot. Why do you think the Marlins fired him after he won the series?

The average age on the 2003 Marlins team was 26 years old. How could he NOT give younger players a shot? Dontrelle Willis was 21 years old and a starter for that team. Same with Josh Beckett (23) and Brad Penny (25). All of the starters on the team were under 30 years old, aside from Pudge. I don't get the comment of "not letting the younger players play over the vets." That doesn't make any sense considering the whole 2003 Marlins team was compromised of younger players.

Jack McKeon managed the Marlins until 2005 and retired after that year. They didn't fire him.

Jack would be a great coach for this team, but he is too old. The guy is probably nearing 80.

at 6:09 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

DUMBEST COMMENT OF THE MONTH:

"And as for McKeon, there's another pleasant personality right there. He's worse than Baker when it comes to giving younger players a shot. Why do you think the Marlins fired him after he won the series? Same with his time with the Padres."

ST CSA

at 8:04 PM

Anonymous said...

That's a huge compliment, CSA, considering you and your constant Jorge Cantu updates provide some pretty stiff competition

Previous Posts

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Kepp's streak ends

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