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Hall of Fame baseball writer Hal McCoy is in his 36th year of covering the Cincinnati Reds, the longest tenure for any active writer covering one team. Counting spring training and postseason games, McCoy has covered more than 7,000 major-league baseball games, written close to 18,000 baseball stories and eaten enough hot dogs to give Babe Ruth indigestion.Home > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2008 > June > 15 > Entry
Homer - As in Home Run
In the “No Truer Words” category:
When a colleague in the press box arrived Sunday morning, he said: “Josh Beckett vs. Homer Bailey? Why are we even here?’
Why indeed?
This was a bigger mismatch than Georgia Tech vs. Cumberland in football in 1916: Georgia Tech 222, Cumberland 0. Georgia Tech by quarters: 63, 63, 54, 42.
It was agonizing to watch Bailey, a perfect match to Jackie Gleason’s Poor Soul. I mean, it looks as if he is afraid to throw the ball, then when he does throw it he is afraid to throw it over the plate.
It is probably wise that he doesn’t throw strikes more often because he gave up three home runs to the Red Sox Sunday in 2 1/3 innings and for those counting, that’s six home runs in 12 1/3 innings this year.
I’m no pitching coach, but I’d say that falls under the horrendous category, although Homer truly is living up to the worst first name in major-league baseball pitching history.
Dare I say it? OK, I will. Homer Bailey is a righthanded Eric Milton.
Even before Bailey’s awful appearance - brief as it was - former Reds interim manager Pete Mackanin, now a Yankees scout, had this assessment: “I’ve never been a big Homer Bailey fan. He doesn’t have any pitches to go with his fastball and he doesn’t locate his fastball very well.”
And for all those out there who clamored and clamored and clamored for Bailey’s call-up? Be careful, you might get what you ask for.
Even before Homer’s odyssey Sunday, manager Dusty Baker had a message that was as clear as an S.O.S. in a bottle.
Baker was talking about the team’s pitching prospects — specifically RHP Josh Roenicke and RHP Daryl Thompson, knocking them stiff in Louisville (AAA).
Baker emphasized that there is room for them and the team won’t hesitate to make changes.
“We have some other dudes coming and they’re coming pretty quickly,” he said. “Roenicke is coming quickly and Thompson is coming quickly. We have some competition coming that can either push some of the guys here or pass up some of the guys here.”
Thompson allowed one run and five hits over 8 2/3 innings against Rochester Saturday and he is 3-0 with a 3.25 ERA in four starts. Roenicke is 0-0 with a 1.08 ERA and two saves in seven appearances.
“And who knows who else we have coming,” he added. “Usually, when they start coming we have so many that we have to make a decision on who to keep and who to trade for what we need.”
As Inspector Clousseau used to say, “Verrrrrrry interesting.”
After the carnage, Baker was more succinct.
With his 0-3 record and 8.76 earned run average, Bailey’s rotation spot is in jeopardy - maybe double jeopardy if Alex Trebec is pitching well in Louisville.
“There has to be some serious discussions (about Bailey),” said Baker. “If you are not making pitches and that’s your job to do, you have to figure out what’s up and why.
“They hit him pretty good,” Baker added. Not pretty good. Real good. “He still has work to do, especially on his change-up and breaking ball.
“You have to make pitches, locate your fastball and hopefully you can get your secondary pitches over,” Baker added. “In the big leagues, if you don’t get your secondary pitches over, they’ll sit on one pitch (the fastball) and you have to locate perfectly to get the out.”
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Comments
By MAC
June 22, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
Bailey is just a newer version of Jack Armstrong, or Brett Tomko, or Scott Williamson, Mike Remlinger, Rob Bell and M. Belise and even Tom Browning to a lesser extent. Browning lost his fastball after his rookie season and did what most others couldn’t or haven’t done…he had to learn another pitch to survive in the Bigs. Same thing could be said about Remlinger who became an All Star AFTER leaving the Reds and getting some GOOD COACHING in Atlanta. All are classic examples of throwers w/ good arms whom the Reds hoped they could teach to pitch. Point is the Reds need to stop drafting throwers and find a coach who can help teach them to pitch at the ML level.By Monroe
June 19, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Hal - You are off base complaining about lack of fan appreciation for Griffey. It’s the other way around, Griffey shows the fans nothing. He is not even a shadow of what he was in Seattle where he always wore a smile. He hasn’t produced at all in Cincy, even admittedly some of that was due to injuries out of his control. At the same time he hasn’t been responsive to the fans here. I have written him 2 letters, both complimentary, and haven’t even recieved an acknowledgement. Aguy making $8+ million a year ought to be able to afford an $8 an hour secretary to help him acknowledge the paying customers. I’m glad he”s nice to you and all, but it sure hasn’t extrended to the fans. He has shown no leadership, and he ought to go to Rusty Baker and tell him to move him down in the batting order. Hew appears to be terribly out of shape, can’t run at all. Narron did the whole world a favor when he insisted he move to right field. AI’m 60 and I wouldn’t be much worse in the outfield.By puppy breath
June 17, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
What does living in Washington D.C. have to do with anything? Let’s see…Mr. Redlegs lives in the nations capital. Uh, so are you a lobbyist or just another garden variety crook or a fed employee on the public dole doin’ a whole lotta nuthin’?By Leander Wapshot
June 17, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
So, what are HB’s attributes that made him so highly regarded before he came to the majors? If he has only one pitch and doesn’t even place it well, what was all the fuss about?By antinomus34
June 17, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
He has some problems alright. Homer has an ERA higher than a jetliner. That’s never good for a pitcher. Maybe he’ll never be ready. His first pitch, he can’t throw for strikes, and has nothing else to keep hitters off balance. That’s death for a ML pitcher.By coach
June 16, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the info Mike. We are agreed.By Mike
June 16, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
Coach…I agree for short term use.. they call these guys “journeymen” he’s ( Cabrera) been around for 10 years or so.. only 3-6 with the Reds.. But..lifetime .259 hitter….984 fielding %, doesn’t strike out that much only 213 times in 1297 AB’s (16%)..Great guy to fill in right now..better than Janish..By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Funny. Considering I live in greater Washington, D.C., it’s amazing how some people continually make posts that fully illustrate their lack of decorum, class and intellect, baseball or no. Seriously, dude. Undies? Diaper? Terd? That must be popular in elementary school.By Greg Tampa Fl.
June 16, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
wow we got us a chili cook off!!!!!!By Drex
June 16, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Mr. Redlegs (Original) Skyline Chili in yer undies…don’t youhave anything better to do than to gripe about your shortcomings which are pointed out by those of us in the know? You sure are an easy one to get riled … Mr Thin-Skinned Dayton Loser would be more apt for you, ya whining crybaby. Go change yer diaper, it’s stinkin’ bad!By coach
June 16, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Hey Mikey—if you can make the plays better than those available—as well as, swing the bat—who cares about age? Until they find a younger/better SS play Cabrera!By Mike-Cinci
June 16, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Most seem to agree the Reds have a lack of talent. This causes the team to rush Bailey and maybe even Cueto (though I hope not). Janish does not seem to be a major league hitter. Bruce should be great but he will have problems. All young players do. The Reds should give Bailey more time in the majors. The Reds aren’t in the race. They can afford to be patient. It is possible Homer will be a bust but let’s give him a reasonable chance before declaring him over and done with. Louisville will always be there for him. Bad teams always rush their young talent and the Reds are a bad team.By Jack
June 16, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
Not sure you can say Homer’s been rushed. He has been moved up quickly in the organization, but succeeded on every level but the Major leagues. He was brought up last year, made some starts and sent back down. He was pitching well in Louisville and brought up again. Again, he failed at the Major League level. Send him down again. Thats why teams have options on players.By michael
June 16, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
Wonder what Gullet could do with the talent the Reds have now? He did a decent job with the rejects he always had to work with. Oh well, that bridge is probably burned.By Greg Tampa Fl.
June 16, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Bingo buddy but he has changed one thing he has an enormous tatto on his arm so I guess he can endure pain thank god!By Nick
June 16, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Lets just put it this way. Homer is messed up, be it from being called up to early, having him change his delivery, cockiness, lack of motivation, bad pitching coaches, whatever it is. The whole situation stinks and is a direct reflection upon how this organization looks. Overrated and under performing.By Greg Tampa Fl.
June 16, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Nick you are absoulutely correct to the tee,however he has been this way since day one.Im from Dayton 53 years moved here a year ago and saw Homer as a Dayton Dragon he was rushed into majors to early do you sense a lack of enthusiasm and seems to be aloof try something different.I would think several demotions would change your demeaner.By Nick
June 16, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Greg, if Homer is truly unwilling to change then that is a Homer problem (literally and figuratively). That being stated, is it not true then that if he has not changed because he is stubborn then shouldn’t he still be in the minors? Once again, the big leagues are not a place to learn how to play. This is the front offices problem for having him up here. I think that it is safe to say that no one cares what the record is of any of our minor league teams as long as they produce MLB talent. We all do care about the record of the Reds. Keep Bailey down in the minors until he shows improvement, otherwise add more talent thru free agency and the draft to replace him. It is not Homer’s fault for being in the majors before he is ready.By Mark
June 16, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
It appears to me, bing the 1st time I’ve seen Homer pitch, that his head is too upright upon releasing the ball, thus not driving through the release with more leg power. The Reds have been wondering where he lost 6 MPH, look at his delivery. I think when he relaxes at this level, he may get into the one on one battles more with the opposing hitters, currently it looks more like batting practice.By Greg Tampa Fl.
June 16, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
Nick I understand your message however Homer has been known to be hardheaded and not someone subject to change Hal is not the first to say what he has so has Welch,cowboy,marty and Thom.By Nick
June 16, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Hal please listen up because you need to be taught a lesson. I love your blog and read it everyday but I think that you have stretched it a little too far this time. This is not Bailey’s fault. This is the major leagues. It is not a place to learn how to throw a second pitch or work on your motion. It is the fault of the front office that brought him up without all of the tools. If Bailey does not have everything that he needs to be a consistent MLB player then he should be in the minors working on them. The Reds are in the Big Leagues for a reason and it is not to grow players into MLB ready talent. The players should either be ready to play everyday or every fifth day or they should not be in Cincy. The reason Homer is even in the majors right now is because there is a complete lack of talent on this roster and he was the best move that the front office could come up with, which is sad enough as it is. Homer did pitch horribly but wouldn’t you if you were 22 still want to be in the majors instead of the minors. Don’t tell me you wouldn’t because the MLB check is a whole lot better than what he gets in the minors, not to mention the food and other amenities that come with it. Anyways, in conclusion, please stay off the kids back and start writing about how there is not talent because of the front office moves that have been made the last 7 years. We all know that Homer should be in the minors so there is no reason to bash on him if the front office is being stubborn.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Hey Drex, next time you want to talk about the class (or lack thereof) of Reds fans, re-read your own post, go stand in front of the mirror and see if the mirror doesn’t magically point right at you.By Jane
June 16, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Wayne Krivsky was correct in that Homer Bailey wasn’t ready..too bad he was forced to bring him up!By Drexel
June 16, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
Gads, cut Homer some slack. Any phenom in the Reds organization for a few years is bound to be ruined. Look at their pathetic pitching coahes. Dick Pole/Pohl/Poole whatever. Get us Mazzone/Mazzoni or macarroni for that matter…don’t care how it’s spelled if it works! Yeah, that’s tight Mr. Redlegs (Original) — yer a dildo. Who cares about spelling on a blog? You obviously have no life. The Reds are heavily invested in Bailey and need to help him out not dump him. And the fans booing him? Probably that bunch of drunks who spend 1/2 the game on their cell phones mugging for the cameras, not true baseball fans, just a bunch of Phillie’s wannabe critics, like Mr. Original. Original what? You probably have your undies full of Original Skyline chili…Ya terd!By tom
June 16, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
What’s this? A HOF sports writer making fun of a young pitcher’s first name? Give me a break. After a bad outing, that’s just unnecessary backbiting.By Chuck
June 16, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
So Hal, who are you blaming in the Reds organization for either not workig with Homer or screwing him up completing? While his location was not good yesterday, I also didn’t see offspeed pitches or breaking balls either. Who was calling the game? I feel bad for the kid. All sorts of buffoons - including some I’m sure on this board were making him out to be the savior of the team. I seem to remember seeing Volquez’s numbers in Texas before coming here…not good. Not good at all.By L-in Indy
June 16, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
Don’t give up on Dunn. He hits 40 HR drives in 100 RBI and scores runs as well. But we should send Griffey somewhere this season and free up a spot for Kepp and Hairston to play at the same time? Then we will see better ABs and score more runs.By Monroe
June 16, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Bailey’s outing yesterday was rough to watch but what was even worse was the booing from the so-called Reds fans. The kid is young and he obviously should have been left in triple A to work out his issues, especially with his velocity so mysteriously diminished. Real fans would never boo a kid like that. You’re only making it harder on him. Ask yourself: would they do that in St. Louis? No way.By Mike
June 16, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Lot of talk about Cabrera at SS..Just a little info here..he will be 36 in December..Certainly not the SS of the future..or the long term answer!By Pete
June 16, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
TO EVERYONE WHO’S ALREADY JUMPED ON THE CABRERRA BANDWAGON….. Yep, he sure made some awesome plays yesterday. However, he’s 35YO & hasn’t had much time in the majors for a reason. Don’t go sticking him in as the everyday SS just because of a good defensive weekend series. Keep Homer up here w/ Cueto so they can get their brains beat out & hopefully learn something for the future. If not, then send them to where Coffey & Belisle currently sit.By HuberTucky
June 16, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
READ THIS QUOTE: From the New York Post: “New Reds General Manager Walt Jocketty is telling baseball people he wants to clean house, particularly of high-priced free agents like Ken Griffey Jr., Adam Dunn and Ryan Freel, plus Bronson Arroyo, for the right deal.” Sounds like Walt is of the mind of ‘Why pay these bloated salaries for a last place team?’ Star fresh with young talent. Coul it be worse? Cincy deserves better. Homer Hasbeen. What about that Justin kid from Beavercreek who pitched so well against the Reds when he lost to Harrang’s excellent effort? He’s young and not a Homeric Headcase!By Steve
June 16, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Hal, in all due respect I don’t think that was Inspector Clousseau but Artie Johnson as the German soldier from Laugh-In. I think you can’t give up on Bailey. The rookie for the Cards who pitched against him the other nite is 24. He seems kind of thin compared to some other rookies who come up. I guess that will come with age.By Mike-Cinci
June 16, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
The Reds are going nowhere this season and probably nowhere next year. How many times have we heard “I’d rather see young guys struggle than old guys fail?” I’d let Bailey pitch the rest of the season to see if he learns from experience. Why give up on a 22 year old? It would be differnt if the Reds were in a pennant race and winning games meant something. This team is in last place. It needs to find out if their young talent is any good. Play and pitch the young guys.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Look at Milton’s three years in Cincinnati, look at Bailey’s numbers with the Reds, come up with the average number of homers allowed per 9 innings and the comparison isn’t THAT farfetched.By Jimmy1Time
June 16, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
Somebody ask Todd Coffey were throwing straight fastballs with zero movement gets you? Triple A!!!!!! Homer just needs time people. Its not like this team is going to beat the all-star team Cubs. (I hate bought teams). But then again you have to love the fact that want to win.By Coach
June 16, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Remember when Boston’s closer was a starter? Bailey to the bullpen!Affeldt I said WEEKS AGO{copy cats}, should be in the rotation! In addition, a really good looking infield has Cabrerra at short—Phillips at second—Votto at first—Keppinger at third.By Chris
June 16, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
Nice. Back to back posts that actually make some sense. Good job Harry and Cait. BTW… I know exactly what Hal was trying to compare… not real hard to figure out. He’s comparing 1 1/2 full seasons to 2 games which equals bad comparision and would have been better off if it were omitted. I respect that you’re sticking up for Hal, just as I’m trying to stick up for Homer. Everyone has their own opinions, which is fine by me if they make logical sense. I don’t want to give up on Bailey just yet, but would not be opposed to trading him for a catching prospect like Salty. I doubt the Rangers would do that deal though, they’d more than likely try to push Laird off on the Reds.By Coach
June 16, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
Cabrera!!!!!! Bailey to pen. Affeldt starts—best stuff on the staff, after Volquez—location is his only problem! Cabrera at shortstop!!!By Harry the Horse
June 16, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Just remember the same things we are saying about Homer, Ranger fans were saying about Edinson Volquez last season. In fact the Rangers may be a good team to shop Homer to. Homer goes back home and maybe the Reds get another prospect. Salty??By Cait
June 16, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
The Reds are far enough out of contention that it won’t hurt to give guys like Thompson and Roenicke a shot. But don’t dump Bailey. He’s soooo young. I don’t know if more time in the minors, shifting him to the ‘pen or different coaches is the answer. At 22, he’s too young to push aside, but get him out of the starting lineup ASAP.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Hal is clearly comparing Bailey to Milton as far as giving up home runs. Good grief. Reading challenged?By Cabrera
June 16, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
Cabrera—our newly found talented shortstop! Anyone notice??By Chris
June 16, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
WOW, I didn’t know Homer was consistently throwing 100 MPH? Amazing!By Greg Tampa Fl.
June 16, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
hal this team is brutal to watch.why cant the reds beg mario soto to spend the rest of the season as pitching coach,he is by far more on level with these young kids,man its obvious the pitchers have no guidance.as far as jr.bringing him here would destroy cliff floyd and the rays dont swing 3-0 with arun at 3rd base and 0 out plus his defense is lacking.saw it spring training myself against twins 3 balls he should have caught he didnt.finally planted himself right on rightfield line.By glenn
June 16, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Get him out of here. The phenom days are over. He has lost 9 mph off of his fastball in less than 2 seasons. He is not a great pitcher. Move on without him!! The Dragons need some help badly!By Coach
June 16, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Haven’t heard mentioned the sparkling play of Mr. Cabrera. We found our short stop!This man has a presence about him in the field and at bat. Play him dumb Rusty!!! He looks great to me. Made two outstanding plays during the 9-0 pasting.Talented young man—and noone, including the hall of famer, has even mentined his play. I think one of the Reds problems is that there is no good judge of talent—anywhere!This guy is better than anyone else we have had at the shortstop position—with more playing time, he’ll prove it!By Gerry
June 16, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Maybe the problem is Dick Pole. His tinkering has robbed Bailey of his velocity. Perhaps the Reds ought to provide him with competent coaching.By Chris
June 16, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
If this site has an archive section, go take a look. He was on the wagon and now he’s using him as his whipping boy for the Reds problems. Homer has struggled big time, I can’t argue with that. His tendency to giving up the long ball is mainly because he can’t locate his pitches and they pretty much sit on the fastball. Milton just flat out didn’t have the stuff to get it by anyone. However he was trying to spin it, it’s a bad comparison.By Jack
June 16, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
Chris, not really sure where you are going with your post. Hal has NOT been on the Homer bandwagon, actually wanted Thompson to come up before Homer. I wanted him up…now want him down. He got three starts. Thats fair. Send him back down to hopefully work on some stuff and lets try someone else. I see no problem in bringing up starters for audtions, lets find one that works.By Steven Ross
June 16, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
In reference to Homer-Milton, I believe Hal’s referring to his propensity to getting shelled and giving up the long ball. Their ilk, while still early for Homer, is remarkably similar. So many changes need to be made. Falling deeper in LAST—-again! Changes are looming with Griffey at the top of the list. While we’re at it, let Baker go too. I’ve never seen a manager fill out a linup card which makes no sense….daily!By Chris
June 16, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
This is about as nice as I can put it. Hal, you’re losing it. Homer Bailey = RH version of Eric Milton? You’ve got to be kidding me. Keep piling on, you’re obviously embarrassed that Homer hasn’t lived up to the hype you and your media buddies surrounded this 22 year old with. I guess everyone has forgotten what was written about Volquez earlier in the season. Hmmm, how old was he when he was struggling at the big league level and was sent all the way down to single-A? Not saying Homer will turn out to be like Volquez, but he’s got a chance to help this club in the future if he can figure some things out. That’s all we should be concerned with at this point anyway. This season is lost, .500 maybe, but contention forget it. He’s shown signs that he can be very successful at this level. This team is all-around bad… might as well let the kid learn under fire. If somebody else is more deserving then give them a shot. I’ve never been a big fan of the idea of Homer in the bullpen, but would that be a good place for him to work on some things? I don’t know, we’ll have to see I guess. Watch out everyone… if Jay Bruce has another 0-4 with a couple K’s and a GIDP, Hal will be jumping off the wagon like it’s on fire!By MikeCinci
June 16, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
The Reds are 5-9 since June 2 (Phils, Fish, Cards, Red Sawx). The Reds record proves there is a lack of talent issue this year and it will get worse next year. The Reds need a catcher. They will need 2 outfielders to replace “aging” Griffey and the “as good as he will get” Dunn. Where are they going to come from?EE looks to be an “almost but not quite good enough” type of player. Votto appears targeted for the outfield or why draft Alfonso #1. SS is uncertain with all the possibilities being just OK but not great. Phillips is a nice player but he is not a #4 hitter. Bruce better be good. There seems be some potential in the pitching staff but it is a work in progress. Does this team look and smell like Pittsburgh Pirates or Kansas City Royals? Jocketty has his work cut out for him.By Will
June 16, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
Hal I usually agree with you on most things, but comparing a 22 year old kid with 12 career starts to Eric Milton is preposterous. Seems to me that cicy has never given this kid fair a chance. He got over hyped by the local media when he first came up, and when he didnt deliver it was as if the media took it as a slap in the face. You could just hear the disdain in marty’s voice during sundays game whenever talking about homer. Give the kid a fair shake before you throw him under the bus.By Reds Fan
June 16, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
Is it me or does Baker have any clue managing this team? Sat was a must win why not take all the stops to winning it winning the series and taking your chances Sunday. He can say all he wants about not pitching Cordero or Burton. BUT A COUPLE OF THINGS: Weathers career is over absolutely rotten and Griffey isn’t far behind. Who in gods name swings at 3-0 with Bruce on 3rd and 1 out. I don’t think I’ve ever been so mad this year. I knew after that they’d lose only got lucky by EE. The only possibility for Griffey to do something stupid and he does into a DP. Yesterday the Reds had no shot with Beckett on the hill. Man taking 2 of 3 would have won the series. I have no experience in MLB but 2-3 is better than 1 of 3. Just a sad pathetic team.By andy
June 16, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
Is Bailey in over his head at this point? Quite possibly. Is he, at 22, deserving of Eric Milton comparisons? Absolutely not. It’s this kind of reactionary tripe that has lowered the baseball IQ in southwestern Ohio.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Totally agree with Chris’s assessment about what Bailey once had and apparently doesn’t now. Could it be that Bailey was the classic wind up and throw ‘em fireballer who, once they started tinkering with his stride to cut down on basestealers, he’s lost his arm slot and leg drive? Having a 95-plus fastball is one thing, having one without movement and no effective secondary pitches is another.By Chris @ Redlegnation
June 16, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
I’m not sure I’m ready to call him Eric Milton yet, but Mr. Bailey is definitely not been impressive. Here’s what I don’t understand: If the guy never threw 96, never had any movement on his fastball, and has no other pitches, how did he have such success in the minors? That description sounds like a guy who wouldn’t even be drafted. I know there’s not a 1:1 correlation between minor league success and major league success, but he did something to get those guys out down there. Whatever he did have, he apparently doesn’t any more. They need to figure it out and fix it. Now, he may never have the stuff to get major league hitters out, but he most certainly “had” more than he has now.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this
Clears signs you don’t know what you’re talking about: 1.) The bullpen coach work on Bailey’s mechanics? Not his job; 2.) You want to hire Mazzoni as new pitching coach? It’s Mazzone; 3.) You want to fire Dick Pohl? It’s Pole; 4.) Uncle Walt did a great job as GM of the Rockies? He was director of player personnel for just a year. Bob Gebhard was the GM; 5.) The only people who ever said Bailey was touching 95-96 was from the uncalibrated radar guns in the minors tat add 3-4 mph. You never heard scouts say Bailey threw that hard. But hey, don’t let mere facts get in the way of an unfounded rant.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
June 16, 2008 8:07 AM | Link to this
Clears signs you don’t know what you’re talking about: 1.) The bullpen coach work on Bailey’s mechanics? Not his job; 2.) You want to hire Mazzoni as new pitching coach? It’s Mazzone; 3.) You want to fire Dick Pohl? It’s Pole; 4.) Uncle Walt did a great job as GM of the Rockies? He was director of player personnel for just a year. Bob Genhard was the GM; 5.) The only people who ever said Bailey was touching 95-96 was from the uncalibrated radar guns in the minors. But hey, don’t let mere facts good in the way of an unfounded rant.By Pete
June 16, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
Dunn wouldn’t swing @ a stinkin’ ball that I set on a tee for him. & there’s still Cincy media clammering’ for the Reds to keep him? C’mon!!!! & to add to a point that I made a couple of weeks ago that Griffey’s no longer a #3 hitter — & hasn’t been for a LONG time….. he not just showing me that he’s not only washed up as a consistent hitter, he continues to blatantly show that he’s not a team player, but a SELFISH player. Who in the hell swings at a 3-0 pitch, less than 2 outs w/ a runner on 3rd?? Of course, it’s JUNIOR! HOFer?? Yes. Gonna help this team get over the hump? NEVER!By blit
June 16, 2008 6:54 AM | Link to this
nice analogy between a 22 year old kid with very limited experience and a washed-up, has-been/never-was pitcher…no wonder homer hates dealing with media guysBy Rich
June 16, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
I’m with redfuture. He has said what I was thinking this afternoon-better than I could say it.By Rich
June 16, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
I’m with redfuture. He has said what I was thinking this afternoon-better than I could say it.By John Denver
June 15, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
I absolutely agree with AP-FLORIDA…I bet Walt is about to come out of his shoes. I lived in Denver when he was GM for the Rockies, watched him in St Lo and he is NOT one to sit around and watch this team continue to cirle the drain and claim the toilet as their personal property. Go Walt! Do it! It is your destiny! We can no longer blame this lame nonsense on Wayne. BTW, Lincoln is STILL stinkin’!By carsick
June 15, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
With all the concerns about Bailey’s attitude in the Spring and his inability to show them that he should be in the rotation on Opening Day, I thought we should have traded him when his potential was still speculated as extremely high. As it is, he’s showing the rest of the league why we’ve had questions about him and his trade value is sinking like a stone.By AP-FLORIDA
June 15, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
HAL-PLEASE WAIT TWO MORE WEEKS BEFORE YOU NAME THE REDS WORST MANAGER. YOU MAY WANT TO CHANGE YOUR MIND. (RUSTY BAKER) GRIFFEY WAS A GREAT PLAYER BUT HE IS DONE…THEY RAN GULLETT OFF AND THEY PRAISE POHL….DOES THIS SAY ANYTHING ABOUT MANAGEMENT? I DO BELIEVE WALT IS ABOUT TO JUMP….I HOPE SO////By Jay Bruhner
June 15, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Man, I sure the rumors about Jr. going to Tampa Bay (or anywhere) are true. Maybe that’ll put a smile on his face. He never shows one to the loyal and supportive fans who’ve been behind him in Cincy. This guys seems to have a chip on his shoulder ala Barry Bonds. A real ‘tude. His indifference on camera is disgusting. Hope Florida like a 250 batter who can’t hit a fast ball, pops out a lot, strikes out more and hits weak grounderst even more. Jr’s attitude is certainly no role model for my son. Go and don’t let the door hit your big outta-shape wide @ss on the way out. Ta ta. Adios. Bye-bye. Good night, good luck & good riddance.By JimmyTime
June 15, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
City Jim I agree about Pole. And also think they should 86 Brooks! I love Dunn to, I dont want to trade anybody man. But the guy is so up and down man. I so wish he could be more consistant. I can deal with the avg. but with runners in scoring pos. he kinda sucks! As for Jr. Jim I jus read what websits say lok at CBSsportsline. My ego still thinks this team can win. But until we start playing small ball, this team stays in last place. Jim its gonna be a long season.By bruiser
June 15, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Amen to the comments on Griffey. Hal, when are you going to write that Griffey is an abomination batting third or that he needs to be rested or that his time is past? Did you see that “basket catch” of the line drive early in the game?His legs are shot ala an old Willie Mays! He should gracefully retire.By HuberTucky
June 15, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
ANOTHER horribly painful game. OTH Griffey has to go (Over The Hill). Next, get Leo Mazzoni and turn him lose on Homer. The Reds have ruined Homer…he WAS great and the Red’s defective coaching staff is trashing him like they have trashed so many others. And Dusty is becomming a candidate for Hal’s WORST manager’s list. (Loshe was a good pitcher, comes to the Reds and sucks, now is 8-2 with St. Louis. Common denominator? Reds coaching staff.By Y-City Jim
June 15, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Jimmy. I don’t want to see any more young guys brought up prematurely especially since I don’t buy that Dick Pole was the best pitching coach that Greg Maddux ever had. Just give the ball to Affeldt. I think he can be a decent #5 starter for now. As for Junior, do you really think the Rays want him? Certainly not for the remaining money. Dunn’s a keeper provided they have a legitimate shot of extending his contract. I’d like to see someone buy him a 1B mitt and get that 6’ 7” frame over to 1B. Votto has to be a better OF than 1B. Put Hairston in CF and keep Kepp at SS and Ed at 3B.By Jimmy1Time
June 15, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
Ok Hal here it goes. Send Homer to the pen. Let him work it out there. Sending him back to Louisville is not going to help him. It will hurt him. Bring up Thompson, send Fogg outright. Trade Weathers to a team that could use him. Now I’m reading that the Devil Rays want Jr. I don’t want him to leave. I just want the old Ken Jr. back. But I know thats not going to happen. It might be time to trade Dunn as well. 2 1/2 weeks ago I would have said no thanks. e stays. But now its time to start looking at 2010. DAMN I just want this club to be great again. As far as this season goes, they better start protecting Jay Bruce. When Kepp and Jerry comeback. Wen Kepp plays he should hit leadoff. And like you and Marty & the Cowboy said, it might be time to let Easy E move on to. I like Jerry at short and Kepp at third. THIS TEAM NEEDS A FEW SABO’S BIP ROBERTS AND LARKIN’S!!!! AND SEAN CASEY! LEADERS HAL, LEADERS.By Y-City Jim
June 15, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Put Homer in the bullpen like many others have suggested. Make Affeldt the #5 starters as many others have suggested. Homer in the pen allows Juan Lopez (the bullpen coach) to work on Homer’s mechanics. Get this kid straight so the fastball returns to its previous velocity. If Welsh knows what he is talking about and Homer is throwing “uphill” then fixing the flaws so he begins throwing “downhill” should work wonders. Maybe it allows him to add the two-seamer so he has two fastballs. Once his mechanics are sound then have Volquez teach him the change-up. The breaking call (slider or curve) then follows. KISS (Keep it simple, stupid). Short stints of relief work to “test” the success of the tinkering will help restore Homer’s psyche. Let’s remember he is still basically a kid - attitude or not. A real frustrated kid.By redfuture
June 15, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Griffey needs to be given a choice of sitting on the bench or batting 7th or 8th. If it’s too embarrassing for him to hit low in the order he should just simply make up some kind of injury so that he can go on the DL. He is absolutely killing the Reds offense. No player should come before the team, be it a HOFer, or not. Why should a team doom itself simply because they have a HOFer who must play on account of pride? Also why does Dusty play Griff every day. At least prior managers have given him a day off every couple weeks. He’s older and tired. You can see it. It’s wearing on him. He’s not going to Dusty and say I’m not playing today. Dusty has to manage and do what’s best for this team.By Steve
June 15, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
How much longer will we have to put up with Junior Griffey’s lack of performance in the #3 spot in the lineup? He is absolutely killing the Reds. I’m not saying there aren’t other problems with the team - clearly there are. It’s just that what might be the most important one - and obvious - keeps getting overlooked because everyone, justifiably, really likes Junior.By rob
June 15, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
A year ago at this time Bailey was being hailed as the savior of the franchise. Are we ready to give up on him after 12 major league starts and 50 plus innings? I hope not. Right now, Bailey looks completely lost on the mound. Could it be there are too many people telling him what to do? Bailey’s spot comes up again Saturday at Yankee Stadium. No way he makes that start.By victor mickunas
June 15, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Hal, it was great to hear you on the air today with Marty.By redfuture
June 15, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Hal, I honestly believe that there are problems with the Reds major league coaching staff. The last couple years Homer was throwing the majority of his fastballs at 95 & 96 mph and don’t say that was a myth because I saw it during some of his games last year. The staff decided to change some stuff with him primarily because his curve was too round-house. I would take what Homer had learned to do on his own over what he has been coached into doing. Also Cueto never had any minor league games last year at all like some of the disasters in the ML. Somebody is messing with these kids. As much as this team likes to change GMs and Managers why don’t they go the route of changing some coaching staff and it would be cheaper. I’m very disappointed in this coaching staff. They have to take the brunt of the blame. They are the ones who sent him back to make changes.