Alter H.S. graduation 2012
Warrior Soccer Classic 2012
Franklin graduation 2012
Many Reds have something to prove this year
Three new guys hope to make an impact; 4 returnees need to improve.
The run-up to Opening Day:
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Newcomer Jonny Gomes, an outfielder acquired in the offseason, brings a positive outlook and and fiery personality to the Cincinnati Reds. He also should contribute some power at the plate. Associated Press photoManagers, coaches, players and, yes, the media, love to talk about the little things that mean a lot, the intangibles that aren't quantified in box scores.
As a public service to John Q. Fan (the "Q" certainly doesn't stand for quiet), here are three fresh faces who might contribute to the Cincinnati Reds this season and four with something to prove:
New guys
Outfielder Jonny Gomes can be a positive without playing a game because of his positive outlook, his fiery personality that says, "I've got your back," and, oh yeah, the guy can play a little bit and can contribute some offense, especially power.
Pitcher Micah Owings' best contribution might be the availability of his hitting, which includes home run power (five HRs, .319 average in 116 career at-bats). That would be an added benefit to what could be a 10- or 12-win season as the No. 5 starter.
Outfielder Willy Taveras talked about stealing 100 bases when spring began. If he gets on base enough, it is possible. But the Reds will be content with 50 stolen bases if he can get on enough to score 120 runs.
Prove it
The Joey Votto-Jay Bruce tandem has to prove that a pair of strong rookie seasons were not smoked mirrors and that they can avoid the sophomore jinx fable and do even better.
Edwin Encarnacion needs a reincarnation. The Reds keep waiting for him to avoid slumps and improve defensively — but this is the fourth straight year they're hoping that will happen.
Was Aaron Harang's 17-loss season just one of those crazy things? That's what he has to prove after winning 16 in both 2006 and 2007.
Contact this reporter at hmccoy@DaytonDailyNews.com.
