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Hall of Fame baseball writer Hal McCoy has retired from the Dayton Daily News after covering the Cincinnati Reds for 37 years. Hal's blog, though, will continue to be a must-read for Reds fans. He'll share his thoughts on the team this season and will file updates from Great American Ball Park. You also can catch Hal in print every Sunday in his popular Ask Hal columnHome > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2011 > June > 26 > Entry
Reds again guilty of littering
UNSOLICITED OBSERVATIONS from The Man Cave, missing the Maryland crabcakes in Baltimore’s inner harbor and missing an invitation from the curator of the Babe Ruth Museum for a personal tour and an offer to swing one of the bat’s Ruth used in 1927 when he hit 60 home runs.
It looked as if the Baltimore Orioles were swinging Babe Ruth bats this weekend when they hit nine home runs off Reds’ pitching to win two of three in Camden Yards.
And it seems as if once a week the Reds score in double figures, but spend the rest of the week scouring the Yellow Pages for runs. Hint: They’re listed under ‘R.’
ON SATURDAY, the Reds ripped five homers (perhaps they borrowed Ruth’s bat?) and won, 10-5. Then on Sunday, facing a pitcher who came into the game with a 2-9 record, the Reds spent the afternoon leaving the basepaths littered with footprints, but not scoring enough.
Two of their runs came when Baltimore pitchers walked four straight batters.
They lost, 7-5, and put runners on base in every inning, but they stranded 14. For the series, the Reds left 31 runners standing on bases, begging to be driven home.
BALTIMORE STARTER Jeremy Guthrie, he of the 2-9 record, has many losses because the Orioles don’t score runs for him, scoring the ninth least runs for an American League starting pitcher.
The O’s solved that problem for Guthrie by reaching Homer Bailey for five runs and building a 5-0 lead by the fourth inning.
It was Bailey’s first start after coming off the disabled list and he was not sharp, more like a dull razor.
But the defense didn’t help when he gave up four runs in the fourth inning. The rally started when the first batter, Adam Jones, lifted a pop-up to the infield.
First baseman Joey Votto, not wearing sun glasses, lost the ball. Bailey, realizing at the last instant that Votto couldn’t see it, made a late dive but missed and it plopped in the grass for a dubious single.
After that, Votto wore sun glasses — and why do major leaguer players constantly do that? They don’t wear sun glasses on a sunny day until after the fact, until after they mess up.
OF COURSE the next batter, Pedro Guerrero, singled. The third batter, Derrek Lee homered to almost the same spot he homered Friday night, a 12th-inning game-ending walk-off home run.
From there, the Reds chipped away. They scored one in the fifth when Brandon Phillips homered. They scored three in the sixth on Chris Heisey’s single for one run and two more on bases-loaded walks to make it 5-4.
But they left the bases loaded when Drew Stubbs grounded into a force. Baltimore relief pitcher Jim Johnson had thrown 11 pitches, 10 for balls, when Stubbs swung (why, why, why???) at a 1-0 pitch to hit into the inning-ending force play.
BUT THE ORIOLES retrieved a run in their sixth off Jose Arredondo on a two-out single by Nick Makakis, who has a 16-game hitting streak. And the Orioles made it 7-4 in the seventh off Aroldis Chapman.
Chapman returned to the team from the DL for this trip and made his first appearance Ssturday night in a non-pressure situation. With the Reds up by five, he pitched the ninth and struck out the side.
On Sunday he struck out the first two — five strikeouts in a row — but with two outs, Luke Scott hit the first home run hit off Aroldis Chapman in the majors.
Ramon Hernandez homered to lead off the ninth against O’s closer Kevin Gregg before Miguel Cairo, pinch-hitter Scott Rolen and Heisey all went down harmlessly.
Rolen had his regular day off after a night game and Jay Bruce was out of the lineup with the flu.
IF RE-ALIGNMENT happens, Reds fans best pray their favorite team isn’t relocated into the American League.
The Reds have played four interleague series and lost all four — 0-3 in Cleveland, 1-2 at home with Toronto, 1-2 at home with New York and 1-2 in Baltimore. They have three more the next three days at Tampa Bay, then three at home against Cleveland.
AND IT IS time, right now, for the Reds to get their act in high gear. The Milwaukee Brewers are starting to step it up. They lead the second place Cardinals by three games, while the third/fourth place Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates are four games behind. Manager Dusty Baker talks about keeping teams in sight, not letting them disappear over the hill, but the Brewers are showing their tail lights.
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By RC
June 28, 2011 4:09 PM | Link to this
Just being contrarian today, I guess, but… I’d argue the point that there’s no worse out than a strike out. A double play is certainly worse, and I would also say that any out made on the first or second pitch of an at bat is worse, since it takes at least three pitches to strike somebody out. I know what you mean - put the ball in play, and you’ve got a chance, but really, I’m of the opinion that outs is outs for the most part (sac flies being an exception). Which leads me to Mr. Dunn… not that I want to refight the Dunn wars, and he’s certainly having a sub-horrible season in Chicago at the moment, but I still consider it a failure of the management of the Reds at the time that couldn’t find a way to make use of a guy who consistently got on base 4 times out of 10. Call me crazy…
By DeckFan
June 27, 2011 7:13 PM | Link to this
You’re dead on ZEKE = Reds do struggle against pitchers they’ve never seen, and have for ever. This could be a tuff series, good pitching for Rays. Important stretch prior to All Star game. Reds need a good stretch - NOW!
By DD
June 27, 2011 4:56 PM | Link to this
Don’t let the facts get in the way of a good story, permanently disabled posters or Believe It or whatever you want to go by today. Don’t you hate it when facts come up and slap you right in the face? Talk about simpleton comments…the “Fire Dusty” or “Gomes sucks” or “Play Heisey” or “Dickerson is an all-star” with no substance to back them up are about as simpleton as they get. No basis for your point of view is the boring thing to read. Thanks for the laughs though.
By KNOW IT ALL
June 27, 2011 3:52 PM | Link to this
I have two jobs but do find time to vent some frustration about the team we follow. DD is pretty smart and I enjoy reading his comments because he can put out the facts. He has set me straight many times and 99.9% of the time he is correct. On his last comment the stats do speak for themselves but I disagree as even though they are batting with high averages they seemed not to be able to get the clutch hits that will turn a game around and win it. I just feel some changes are needed quickly but may be too late. Another thing this interleague game schedule is stupid. Reds should be playing divisional games instead of American League teams enough is enough of this type of play. New city tonight Tampa so maybe this will be the jump start they need. Time will tell
By @ permanently disabled posters
June 27, 2011 3:27 PM | Link to this
Do any of these “know it all’s” have real jobs? Wouldn’t it be great if the rest of us could sit around all day with our book of baseball statistics, so we could jump all over someone’s post{who really could care less what stats are thrown at them}, to make our selves look important and all-knowing? Some of you jack a$$e$ ought to get a life, or, take a permanent vacation. It’s really boring to read the same simpleton comments everyday. Do everyone a favor,just go away,forever.
By DD
June 27, 2011 1:41 PM | Link to this
ohdave - explain something to me. With all these “high power/high stike out/low average” guys on our roster, how can the Reds be 3rd in the NL with a team BA of .261? How can there be 6 teams in the NL with more strike outs than our Reds (7th out of 16 teams)? How could we lead the NL last year with a .272 average, and have 5 teams (putting us in 6th) strike out more than us? Are we not as bad as it may seem? Do all teams have the same issues (if not worse) than those here?
By ohdave
June 27, 2011 1:14 PM | Link to this
This team needs personnel moves. Really tired of the high power/high strikeout/low average guys that seem to end up on this roster. We got rid of Adam Dunn and got a whole slew of Adam Dunn’s.
By KNOW IT ALL
June 27, 2011 12:55 PM | Link to this
HeY DD welcome back, I wasnt blaming baker like before I relaxed if you read my comment correctly but he had made some weird decisions on some of the games. I am just frustrated as they just can’t get it together. I do not think it is too early anylong now is the time to mame a move and they aren’t.
By DD
June 27, 2011 12:29 PM | Link to this
Mike-Cinci….what are you doing??? You’re letting the facts get in the way of a good story! It’s a fictional story everyone here likes to cry about. Don’t ruin their fun!
By Mike-Cinci
June 27, 2011 12:13 PM | Link to this
Why do I say it is talent especially pitching that is the Reds problem? The Reds are #1 in the NL and #3 in baseball in runs scored. Reds are #1 in the NL and #2 in baseball in total # of hits. Reds are #2 in walks in the NL led by Votto. The Reds pitchers ERA is near bottom of NL. Reds lead NL in most total bases and walks allowed. Overall comparing the 16 NL teams the Reds are #1 in offensive stats and #14 in pitching stats. We think hitting is the problem because the Reds are always trying to come from behind. Actually the problem is pitching and if it does not get better the Reds will look inconsistent and fans will get frustrated and blame Dusty because it is so easy to do. Fixing the talent level is not easy. That said, there is still a lot of baseball to be played.
By bob
June 27, 2011 11:23 AM | Link to this
That’s the problem, TYGO. The offense is huge or none. I can’t say for sure, but I suspect the Reds lead or near the top in K’s. There is no worse out and I see no chance of improvement. The same K out hitters do the same thing over and over expecting different results. You know what that example is the definition of? I’m not saying our batters can’t before hitters, I’m saying coaching is the answer. We send all of our problems to Louisville to get fixed by Ted Power and Rich Sweet. Many come back showing improvement. Maybe we need to bring them to Cincy and get them fixed on a daily basis. Dusty doing his LF matchups is not working. Waiting for the bus that never gets there. Being “almost” there seems to never change.
By KNOW IT ALL
June 27, 2011 10:34 AM | Link to this
Sorry TYGO you are correct I was wrong about your statement. MIKE-CINCI why would you say it is not the manager, talent, etc but pitching is the problem. I think it is hitting with runners in scoring position. We just about lead the leagues in hitting but last in the league hitting with runners on base. That is the problem, we can’t bunt, sacrifice, know when to take a pitch etc. Dusty Baker also has made some poor judgment calls so I blame the whole team.
By DD
June 27, 2011 10:26 AM | Link to this
Back from a much needed vacation without internet access to keep me away from this drivel. KIA…you were relaxing there for a bit. It was nice to see. But…the panic and negativity are back! Are our Reds struggling? Yep. And of course, it’s all Dusty’s fault. Shocking to see that again. It’s funny how so many of you talk out of both sides of your mouth with regards to Dusty. He gets no credit for his past success - 3 Manager of the Year awards and led the Reds to the playoffs last year for 1st time in 15 years - as he had great players in SF and last year the players made up for Dusty’s terrible lineups, pitching decisions etc., but when things go wrong it’s Dusty to blame and no fault goes on those same players that gave him all his previous success. Good rationale there. Also…all those complaining about the Reds not making any moves. Unbelievable. Anyone listen to Doc Rogers last night? Personally, I’m not a fan but he made interesting points coming from someone who ran the Baltimore farm system previously. He said simply looking at the stats of Cozart or Alonso or whoever is dumb. The fact that Cozart is hitting .320 in AAA is a moot point if all he’s hitting is fastballs. How’s he look against a breaking ball? Anyone know? If you think you do, I’ve got news for you - you don’t. As Rogers said, a guy is in the minors to work on something (whatever it may be) to get them to be successful at next level. From A to AA you may be working on one thing and something different to go from AAA to the bigs. I (like all of you here!) don’t know what the organization (which by the way, EVERYONE was in love with Jocketty & Co. just 6 months ago - amazing how fickle you all are and can sway your opinions from one day to the next) is looking for. But, I do know Rick Sweet (the next Reds manager whenever Dusty leaves btw), Ted Power, etc. are fantastic talents down in Louisville and we are lucky to have them. If Jocketty, Sweet, etc. say these guys aren’t ready - they aren’t ready. As for trades….anyone notice all the trades going on around the league? No? Oh…that’s cause there haven’t been any. I’m sure St. Louis would love to get help in its bullpen or at SS - haven’t happened. The back end of Milwaukee’s bullpen will probably get addressed too. The Tribe is starting to struggle and could use some pop in the order - no moves yet! That’s cause 18 of the 30 teams are either in first place in their division or within 5 games. So, a lot of teams still think they’re in it and aren’t dealing. Those that may be willing must be wanting an arm and a leg in return at this point. If the Reds were the first to make a move, it would hurt the organization for years to come and all of you would be whining about how dumb Jocketty is. It’s a no-win situation at this point. Everyone relax - still plenty of baseball to go.
By Mike-Cinci
June 27, 2011 9:56 AM | Link to this
The manager is not the problem. I wish it it was that easy. The problem the Reds have is talent. It could be just a bad period but 75 games have been played. It is just possible that this team is not as good as we expected. Votto, Phillips, Cueto, Cordero, Bruce and the catchers have played up to expectations but everyone else has been below. The major problem has been pitching which everyone thought was a strength. The Reds are near the bottom in pitching and you don’t win without it. Volquez, Wood, Arroyo have ERA’s above 5. Leake is above 4. Bailey has been injured. Baseball teams look terrible with ineffective pitching. There is not much pitching help in the minors so we must hope for the current group to turn things around. Is there enough talent to do it? Based on the results so far I would say no but that’s why they play the games.
By Zeke
June 27, 2011 9:50 AM | Link to this
What is Price’s plan for studying upcoming pitchers? We constantly struggle with these new guys in interleague AND in the NL.
By J
June 27, 2011 8:44 AM | Link to this
The word is spelled GUILTY! DDN needs to fire their proofreaders!
By TYGO
June 27, 2011 7:48 AM | Link to this
Know It All, Apparently you can’t read. No where did I say the Reds will make the playoffs. My point was, for all of you who insist on putting EVERYTHING on Baker, the manager was no more responsible for Saturdays potent offense then he was for Sundays lack thereof. I also said that Jocketty needs to make some moves. I strongly suggest you improve your reading and comprehension skills.
By Mike Mc in Ky
June 26, 2011 11:31 PM | Link to this
Well what did I say guys? 1 game out of 3 again !! Lost another series… How much more do we stick with these games where dusty an b price for that matter, sitting on their butts with the everlasting ?We’re not even halfway thru the season ? speech? Sorry to break it to ya Mr Toothpick, were just about there!! If we dont get a leader an a different ss,lf, an someone who is willing to ACTUALLY manage, we won’t survive this next roadtrip! BOB HEAR OUR CRIES!! PLEASE HELP SAVE THIS TEAM FROM THEMSELVES AND DUSTY BAKER!
By Mike Mc in Ky
June 26, 2011 11:31 PM | Link to this
Well what did I say guys? 1 game out of 3 again !! Lost another series… How much more do we stick with these games where dusty an b price for that matter, sitting on their butts with the everlasting ?We’re not even halfway thru the season ? speech? Sorry to break it to ya Mr Toothpick, were just about there!! If we dont get a leader an a different ss,lf, an someone who is willing to ACTUALLY manage, we won’t survive this next roadtrip! BOB HEAR OUR CRIES!! PLEASE HELP SAVE THIS TEAM FROM THEMSELVES AND DUSTY BAKER!
By KNOW IT ALL
June 26, 2011 10:32 PM | Link to this
DECKFAN - Keep watching my post comments and what the Reds do this week, next Sunday we will meet again on this blog and see what difference a week makes…Then I can’t wait to hear your comments. Reds right now are all wet, the fight is not there. That starts with their laid back, player loved manager whom needs to put his foot down but won’t.
By DeckFan
June 26, 2011 9:57 PM | Link to this
Giants did make moves - Ross happened to be made in late August, past the trade deadline, which proves - it ain’t over till its over! Look at Giants moves last year - picked up veterans off the trash heap! Not many call ups from the minors as many here would like to see. Basically the Giants did it all with pitching. Reds lineup TODAY runs circles around Giants (last year and this) - it all comes down to who pitches the best. Reds are close - big difference this year is that other teams never overlook them and some of the team just might be feeling some pressure. KIA is all wet when it comes to FIGHT - I’ve yet to see them quit.
By jim m.
June 26, 2011 9:07 PM | Link to this
hello Deckfan, the difference bewteen what the Gianst did last year and what the Reds are not doing is they went out and got help.. Cody Ross ring a bell?? the Reds are happy with their weak hitting SS’s and inconsistent LF production 3-headed monster and Rolen not even close to what he did last year! there has to be moves made to spark this team.. and i want dusty to be a manager, not looking for being buddy buddy with his players. also how does it show the fans there is concern? hard to sell tickets that way!!
By KNOW IT ALL
June 26, 2011 8:49 PM | Link to this
DECKFAN - You must be on bath salt. Reds do not have the FIGHT to do what the Giants did. They have talent, hitters, pitchers but not the FIGHT and that is what it will take. You can see it in the way they play the game.
By Michael in Singapore
June 26, 2011 8:17 PM | Link to this
The Reds will survive their sluggishness. They’re not out of it quite yet. They definitely need a B-12 shot in left and short though. No, there’s isn’t a guarantee Cozart or Sappelt/Alonso will hit .300 but there isn’t a guarantee they won’t either.
By DeckFan
June 26, 2011 8:06 PM | Link to this
For all those glass half empty type ‘Fans’ out there - think about this; Giants last year were 7.5 games back on July 4th, and 6 games out on Aug 28. They went on to beat the Phillies and win the World Series. Give up if you want, but I’m betting that Dusty, Walt, or any of the team is throwing in the towel quite yet!
By Thanks for the crappy summer
June 26, 2011 7:24 PM | Link to this
I want to thank Walt for the crappy summer I am experiencing. I was so looking forward to this season and you just crapped on it.
By KNOW IT ALL
June 26, 2011 6:58 PM | Link to this
Bob & TYGO and everyone else that still thinks the REDS are going to be in the playoffs, wake up. I actually thought so myself until last couple weeks. Reds are a .500 team and that is all. I said Pitts would pass Reds up this weekend and they have. Reds cannot beat teams of their calibar, I don’t know why or what it is but they just can’t beat the weaker teams. They are in a team slump, no leadership, no motivation, and so so effort given by just about all of them. Nothing is going to change that this year, maybe next year but this year is over. They will finish maybe 4th or 5th when it is all said and done. So you that think playoffs need to start thinking about next year not this year…
By TYGO
June 26, 2011 6:39 PM | Link to this
Aw,c’mon Bob. The offense showed up huge Saturday and slept through this game. There’s only so much a manager can do. Fact is, this is a team full of incredibly streaky hitters. Walt J. needs to pull some strings soon and I believe he will. In the interim, we just have to wait and pray that several key guys will catch fire and begin to generate some consistant offense.
By bob
June 26, 2011 6:27 PM | Link to this
Oce again no offense unless it’s via the HR. Sat - 9 runs out of 10. Today, 2HR’s, 2 via BB and 1 RBI. 14 LOB, yet Dusty just sits there chewing on his ‘pick. After 4 straight BB’s, Stubbs grounds out on a 1-0 pick. Is it asking too much for Baker to give a take sign and see what develops? His imagination to create offense is waiting on the long ball. No matter who is brought up or sent down, Dusty will still be there. Waiting. There is no leadership. He is called a player’s manager. Is that because he lets them do what they want. I saw Edison leave the dugout after the game with his music. That must have been a learning experience.