May 7, 2010

The Daily Brief: The Return of the Arm Breaker

Last Game
The Reds managed to eke out another last at-bat victory to take the series from the Mets on Wednesday, in a game where Johnny Cueto threw 118 pitches. They won 5-4 thanks to an extra-innings, walk-off home run from Orlando Cabrera.

Next Game
After an off-day, the Chicago Cubs come to Cincinnati. Homer Bailey, fresh off his 121 pitch outing, will take on Carlos Silva at 7:10pm EDT.

When There’s No Good Answers
To Those New Questions…There’s Nowhere to Go But Down

The Reds have many problems. One that manager Dusty Baker is focusing on right now is the lack of anything good coming from the lead-off spot. Chris Dickerson is injured, leaving only Drew Stubbs, who has been struggling and carries a .267 on base percentage. Apparently, Baker is leaning towards moving Phillips to the top of the order.

This is an interesting management tactic to use when dealing with a player you’ve derided in the media for lack of hustle. I’m sure that’s what all well-run, successful organizations do: promote and give even more responsibilities to their trouble employees.

At least there’s no need to hustle in the lead-off slot.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
In 28 games, Paul Janish has started 2, the last time on April 24.

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