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02-08-2013: Almost Time for Pitchers and Catchers to Report

By DocProc at February 08, 2013 13:46
Filed Under: Off Season Ramblings

As we’re just around the corner from Spring Training, here are things I hope for during the 2013 season. I’ll get things rolling—feel free to chime in.

--I hope Todd Frazier returns to mid-summer form—all year long. Wow, what a great July-August that guy had while Joey was out. By the end of the season, however, he looked a bit tired and was fighting for playing time with Rolen. I’d like to see him get 469 ABs and hit .277 with 26 HRs and 93 RBI (random numbers, but you get the point).

--I hope Ryan Ludwick…er, see above. Second verse, same as the first.

--I hope Devin Mesoraco shows why he was such a hyped prospect.

--I hope Billy Hamilton has a great year in Louisville but doesn’t come up until September. But please join us in September.

--I hope Scott Rolen spends lots of time at home with his kids and enjoys retirement.

Ready….GO!

05e28872-7a24-4982-b7fd-554abffda9f6|1|5.0

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Comments (341) -

2/8/2013 1:49:24 PM #

--I hope Joey Votto and Jay Bruce are fighting it out for NL MVP all season long

2/8/2013 1:50:52 PM #

--I hope Latos and Bailey sign long term.
--I hope the ever increasing list of PED users continues to be Red-free.
--I hope Johnny Cueto is healthy and continues to out-pitch his peripheral numbers, like he has so well the last two years.

2/8/2013 2:13:03 PM #

I absolutely think Bailey is here til he is a free agent then he's gone. I think Latos has made some friends in the clubhouse and likes playing on this team and could potentially sign long term. I'm not sure the deal gets done this off season though.

I'm pretty certain Bailey is just counting the days til he can get the hell out of here though. He may surprise me, I'm just not getting my hopes up on him.

btalbert25 |

2/8/2013 1:58:59 PM #

--I hope the average attendance goes up by about 3000 a game.
--I hope the Reds play some really good games when the house is packed so fans want to come back for more.
--I hope we enjoy our new seats in Section 426, Row C (which is why I'm not so concerned about fighting big crowds anymore).

2/8/2013 2:05:43 PM #

I think we'll see a boost in attendance next year, but it'll be modest like in 2011 and 2012. I think the Reds are at a point with attendance where they'll have to win a playoff series or 2, to see a significant boost in attendance. The last couple of years have had decent, but not great increases, but 2013 will be better, they are going to win this division again, probably running away. If they can win the NLDS and hopefully the NLCS I think next year we'll see a significant increase.

btalbert25 |

2/8/2013 2:13:57 PM #

Was this one of Doc's hopes

Mark Sheldon ‏@m_sheldon

RT @Britt_Ghiroli #Orioles claim RHP Todd Redmond on waivers from the #reds

Champ Summers |

2/8/2013 2:14:43 PM #

--I hope the Reds go wire to wire. (Hey, go big or go home.)

2/8/2013 2:20:09 PM #

- I hope I get to go to a LCS game at GABP and see many of y'all there.
- I hope Big League Choo baffles NL pichers to the tune of 2nd place for the batting title. (We all know the Bat is going to win it, right?)
- I hope February is the quickest month ever.

2/8/2013 2:27:42 PM #

I agree with all of these (and all of everyone's hopes, pretty much), but especially that last one.

2/8/2013 2:22:26 PM #

Oh, those of you who are considering a trip to Goodyear, there will be a fairly decent contingent from RO at the 3/15 game. Docproc, Sonofdocproc, Champ and I will all be there. Sitting in the same row, no less. (Without even consulting each other on seat locations first.)

2/8/2013 2:31:36 PM #

Clearly an act of fate! Sec. 106, Row D.

2/8/2013 2:32:04 PM #

Kinda funny. Doc can witness my cousin and I knocking back the PBR's

Champ Summers |

2/8/2013 2:40:01 PM #

I am tempted to make a last-minute trip.

Statmom |

2/10/2013 9:19:30 PM #

Opening day schedule has us playing the Angels at 4:10 up against 3 other 4:10 games including Dodgers/Giants.

There are also 4 other NL games before our game. Still ticks me off.

Also the Sunday night game is horrible. Rangers/Astros? WTF?

Champ Summers |

2/8/2013 4:14:15 PM #

I would love to make the trip. Unfortunately, my job has blocked off all the days from the end of this month til the middle of April from us. They are putting in some new software that we have to learn and I can't miss any of those days. 2014 though, Champ can teach me how to appreciate PBR!

btalbert25 |

2/9/2013 12:01:02 AM #

Son, it is not really possible to appreciate PBR. It is possible to enjoy yourself when drinking PBR, but it is not the PBR you are enjoying.

Frank_Robinsons_Ghost |

2/9/2013 9:18:39 AM #

;0

2/9/2013 9:19:21 AM #

I mean

2/9/2013 7:28:03 PM #

You can appreciate PBR especially in volume

Champ Summers |

2/8/2013 4:22:18 PM #

It's crazy that someone keeps track of this stuff. Also, very cool.

www.hardballtimes.com/.../

2/8/2013 5:45:30 PM #

Remember that special Reds' bat boy? He's in the news again
www.usatoday.com/.../

2/8/2013 7:33:46 PM #

One of my favorite games of the year. Might sound corny but I can still remember the joy that he brought to the celebration. God bless him and the Reds for making that happen for all of us.

2/9/2013 1:23:56 PM #

Next up? Live music and fresh seafood at the Evergkades Seafood Festival in Evrglades City. Hope it's not too hot!

2/9/2013 3:06:00 PM #

Major case of envy.

2/9/2013 3:40:14 PM #

I just saw my playoff and World Series tickets from October in a drawer. I can't throw them away yet. I've decided I'll toss them when they're replaced by a new set of playoff tickets.

I hope that happens this season. And next. And next...

2/10/2013 9:05:28 AM #

Although I continue to focus on those four wonderful words, "Pitchers and Catchers Report," I just noticed that the Reds' first spring training GAME is only 12 days away.

The first three games are all against Cleveland at Goodyear. Do you think Stubbs is going to get an eyeful of Choo and Hamilton patrolling center field for us?

2/10/2013 3:38:01 PM #

I wouldn't mind seeing him start to make more consistent contact as the first step towards a higher OBP.

2/10/2013 5:08:27 PM #

Thirteen years ago today, the Reds signed Ken Griffey, Jr.

network.yardbarker.com/.../12883498

Statmom |

2/10/2013 9:20:08 PM #

Reply jail has little logic

Opening day schedule has us playing the Angels at 4:10 up against 3 other 4:10 games including Dodgers/Giants.

There are also 4 other NL games before our game. Still ticks me off.

Also the Sunday night game is horrible. Rangers/Astros? WTF?

Champ Summers |

2/10/2013 9:21:09 PM #

game of Thrones is back 3/31. Double torture relieved all within 24 hours.

Champ Summers |

2/10/2013 9:38:25 PM #

Tony Campana waived by the Cubs. If the Reds picked him up, I'd squeal in delight like a school girl who first discovers the existence of Justin Beiber.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/10/2013 9:39:47 PM #

Oh my goodness--I would squeal with you. That's a really disturbing thought.

2/10/2013 10:27:51 PM #

Would be great to add him but not sure where he fits. He's a CF'er and billy Hamilton will be getting that time in AAA and there is no room on the big league club. The OF in AAA is semi-full. I guess someone could go to make room.

Champ Summers |

2/10/2013 10:52:27 PM #

Interesting that there are just 6 OF'ers on the 40 man and YRod will be no help. There is no help at AAA so maybe he would be a fit if he'd accept a demotion

Champ Summers |

2/10/2013 11:33:13 PM #

Campana is perfect Hamilton insurance. Color me skeptical that Billy is ready in 2014.

Also, why not just put him in place of Paul, who doesn't play center? Right now, outside of Heisey, no one on this roster is a center fielder. Who knows what could happen, but I know that if, say, Choo is DLed, I'd rather just slide Campana into his spot than Paul or Heisey.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/11/2013 9:56:55 AM #

I think Hamilton will be here in 2014 ready or not unless he takes a huge step backwards.

If Campana was signed he would likely be on a one year deal so there is little chance he would hang around for two years.

That said, having Campana compete with Paul would be a good thing.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 9:54:09 AM #

Campana would be good AAA depth and potential injury replacement OF for the Reds until Hamilton is ready.

2/11/2013 10:18:54 AM #

www.fangraphs.com/.../

Interview with Frazier.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/11/2013 10:37:25 AM #

Man, I like that guy.

2/11/2013 11:17:53 AM #

A$$hole cardinals getting coverage already since they reported a day earlier.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 1:56:37 AM #

Well, the BFIB couldn't wait!!

Frank_Robinsons_Ghost |

2/11/2013 11:28:40 AM #

first tweet from Goodyear beat writers

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

I'm in Goodyear, where it's 46 and not-so sunny. Miguel Olivo was first player I saw. Warmly greeted me. Choo blog entry in works. #reds

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 11:29:53 AM #

DKnobler ‏@DKnobler

Justin Verlander has decided against pitching in the WBC, another blow to the tournament. http://cbsprt.co/Xxp2le
Retweeted by Jon Heyman

C'mon JC, Joey, BP...walk away

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 11:31:49 AM #

Preach it.

I can live with BP being in it, but not Votto and Cueto coming off injuries.

2/11/2013 11:44:15 AM #

cincinnati.com/.../

"I'll try" doesn't exactly make me overwhelmingly confident.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 11:45:51 AM #

above was Fay's first goodyear piece on Choo.

Fay needs to proof read.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 11:49:29 AM #

Here's hoping he's just being humble and modest.

Interesting that he likes to be called "Choo."

2/11/2013 12:07:07 PM #

Choo obviously is incredibly humble in everything he said - he wouldn't even take credit for destroying Arroyo.

That's Spring Training puff piece that tells us a whole lot of nothing (though it certainly doesn't make me think the Reds shouldn't go sign Campana to get a guy on this roster who's played center every day before)

Ashlandateam2 |

2/11/2013 12:59:03 PM #

I don't worry much about Choo handling center field. Other than all the ground to cover (though GABP isn't huge), I think you get the easiest reads off the bat out there. Fewer tailing fly balls/line drives in center too. As long as he can cover the ground, I think he'll be fine.

SDDennis |

2/11/2013 1:06:13 PM #

I wish I had the confidence that you and AAT had with Choo. Bruce throwing his hat in the arena so soon after the trade made me perk my ears up some.

I get to witness his transition in less than 5 weeks. Doc, Son of Doc, Amy and I can argue about it in Goodyear.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 1:09:09 PM #

We'll be watching like hawks--both at the game and during practices.

2/11/2013 1:03:42 PM #

cincinnati.com/.../

Sounds like we won't see Massett for a while. I'll bet he doesn't log any innings in ST and stays on rehab. He'll do extended ST and then a max rehab assignment in the minors. He's the first guy to go on the DL. He will be using the 60 day variety.

Shoulder issues are a bitch. He may never get all the way back.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 2:03:32 PM #

not exactly a best shape of career story but close

cincinnati.com/.../

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 2:04:34 PM #

Fay has hit twitter full force and the crazies are already out.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 2:20:03 PM #

more than just P&C's reporting to camp. Sightings of Choo, Ludwick, Cozart and Donald and then this tweet

Jay Bruce ‏@JayABruce

Thanks, @nikebaseball! It's time to go! pic.twitter.com/pbgzO9iV

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 2:24:01 PM #

Is it my imagination, or has the Enquirer backed off on their pay per view news? I've been getting through on links that I would have been blocked from immediately after they implemented their new policy

2/11/2013 2:46:02 PM #

I thought I was "out of options" but when I followed the links on R.O., I got right in. I just logged directly in to Fay's blog and it says I have 16 articles left. Not sure what is going on.

Statmom |

2/11/2013 4:20:10 PM #

Apparently you get so many articles per month. I've had the same issue with the Tennessean in Nashville too. During the actual season, I'm sure I'll run out at some point, but really, unless you are reading everything on their website every day it's not a big deal. I'm also reading some at home and some at work so my allotment is really doubled.

2/12/2013 1:59:21 AM #

I've noticed the same thing Mary -- a seeming change in the past 6 weeks or so -- although I do log in from 2 different IP addresses. It may also reflect my reading habits now that baseball AND football are over.

Frank_Robinsons_Ghost |

2/11/2013 2:40:30 PM #

Champ, here's why I'm not worried about Choo:

Here were the worst defensive center fielders last year, per Fangraphs:

1. Curtis Granderson
2. Dexter Fowler
3. Josh Hamilton
4. Yoenis Cespedes
5. Michael Saunders
6. Andrew McCutcheon
7. Adam Jones

Out of those seven players, four of them played on playoff teams (New York, Oakland, Texas, and Baltimore); one of them could have been the MVP (Cutch), and the other two were bright spots on miserable teams, and happened to play in absolutely enormous ballparks (Seattle and Colorado).

In other words, all seven of those guys are pretty good ballplayers - the worst in the bunch (Saunders) was still a 2.3 WAR player.

Shin-Soo Choo may be as bad as Curtis Granderson this year - I dunno. But even if he is, the Yankees didn't seem to suffer that much for him being out there. And Granderson only hit .232 with a .319 OBP (albeit with 43 homers). Choo's career average and OBP is .289 and .381, and he's now in a ballpark that was literally built for left handers to thrive.

I'm not worried about Choo because I think that on a team whose defense is good as ours, one weak spot isn't a big deal, and it's been proven that really, really good teams can get away with having a less than perfect defensive center fielder. And the Reds are a really, really good team.

2/11/2013 3:19:21 PM #

Yep, yep, yep.

We know Choo is an excellent right fielder, so I have great confidence that he can be at least an average center fielder--probably more. And an average center fielder with a .380 OBP improves this team dramatically.

2/11/2013 3:23:11 PM #

We always need something to worry about I suppose and Choo in center is the issue to worry about this year. Not so much people here, but in general people have made it sound like Stubbs was Willie Mays and Choo would be like putting Adam Dunn in center. Will he be as good as Stubbs in the field? NO. Bottom line, whether it's runs he drives in, or runs he generates simply by getting on base all the time, Choo will be responsible or contribute to this offense scoring a lot more runs than it did with Stubbs or Cozart in the leadoff spot last year.

The runs generated by having him and BP at the plate ahead of Votto, Ludwick, and Bruce will be significant. The runs they lose by having him in center, to me, won't be as great as many think.

btalbert25 |

2/11/2013 4:03:02 PM #

Could not agree more. Choo makes this entire line up better. No one has to bat in a spot that puts undo pressure on them (see Cozart) and everyone will see better pitches. That is going to be a killer line up.

Hebron Reds Fan |

2/11/2013 4:22:19 PM #

The funniest part is that all those guys you listed are "fast". We always think the key ingredient for a CF is quickness, but honestly, that's like trait number 3. #2 would be ability to read a ball off the bat and #1 would be the angle you take. If Choo can do those 2 well, his speed is irrelevant.

2/11/2013 4:26:58 PM #

And the good news is, Choo has some speed, too--about 20 SBs a year. I'm betting he's as fast if not faster than Bruce.

2/11/2013 3:46:45 PM #

I seem to remember everyone worrying that Ludwick was going to be Dunn in LF at one point in time...

2/11/2013 4:02:44 PM #

Although I never expected Ludwick to be as bad as Dunn, I thought he'd be slightly better than Gomes. After seeing him play the field I feel Ludwick is very under-rated in terms of his defense. He gets good reads and I seldom feel like he mis-reads a ball. He may not have the range of other guys but he's a good two steps into his break while others are trying to recover from a poor read.

2/11/2013 4:22:14 PM #

One other thing to consider with Choo is his arm. If I remember correctly, he has a world class arm out there. After all, he was a pitcher at one point. Stubbs arm was pretty good, but that is one part of defense Choo may actually be an upgrade.

2/11/2013 4:27:48 PM #

Christ...I said 8 words about Choo and got this???WTF

I just thought the choice of words "I'll Try" were a bit peculiar plus the comments made by Red's players didn't give me the most confidence.

Jeez

I know its not like we're sicking Yonder Alonso in CF. He'll be fine most of the time.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 4:30:16 PM #

Sorry, Champ.

For the record, I wasn't wild about "I'll try" either.

2/11/2013 4:30:51 PM #

Ha ha ha ha.

Sorry. Though in my defense, what else is there to talk about?

2/11/2013 4:45:09 PM #

Yeah, at least the board woke up.

I'll try to moderately over-react about something else the next time things die down.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 4:42:25 PM #

I didn't really think you were ripping the guy. My comment was more based on the fact that I think there's this real part of the fan base who think he's going to be horrible out there and cost the Reds games. Since we were talking about Choo, I thought I'd chime in on why felt that was incorrect.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 2:01:56 AM #

Some fans (like most Reds fans) just can't stand prosperity.

Frank_Robinsons_Ghost |

2/11/2013 4:43:47 PM #

I think we all just want something to debate/discuss at this point.

How about whether or not we see Massett ever pitch again?

2/11/2013 4:50:11 PM #

I've already moderately over-reacted to that earlier

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 4:49:16 PM #

BREAKING NEWS

ALERT>>>>MINOR LEAGUE FILLER UPDATE!!!!!

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

#Reds also signed Clay Hensley, a 33-year-old right-hander. Was 4-5, a 4.62 ERA in 60 games for Giants last year. Minor league deal.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 5:09:13 PM #

Former Padre. Afraid his "best" years were in San Diego. I like surprises though.

SDDennis |

2/11/2013 5:21:47 PM #

need warm bodies like that Clay Zavada and Ron Mahay from last year. Maybe he'll hang around for Minor league depth but something says this is a way for Hensley to catch on with another club after the reds let him go around 3/25. He will eat some innings during those dead arm days and the SS games.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 5:01:25 PM #

Looks like they avoided arbitration with that guy in centerfield:

www.mlbtraderumors.com/.../...oid-arbitration.html

2/11/2013 5:22:25 PM #

one down 2 to go. Latos hearing is up first.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 5:12:10 PM #

Champ, just wait for my hart hitting breakdown of Jason Donald VS Cesar Izturis. THEN you'll really see some overreactions.

2/11/2013 7:02:51 PM #

that will be an interesting battle for worst Red

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 7:56:38 PM #

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN

Kyle Lohse finished eight in the big leagues last year in ERA. espn.go.com/.../2 … He threw 211 innings. He's unemployed. #Strangebuttrue

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 8:40:42 PM #

with Carp out I hope he doesn't find his way back to STL

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 9:53:44 AM #

twitter.com/Reds/status/301342322313011201/photo/1

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 8:40:12 PM #

Adam Rubin ‏@AdamRubinESPN

Four years, $48 million for Michael Bourn with #Indians, reports @hoynsie

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 8:52:23 PM #

Wow, can't believe he only got 12 million. Wasn't he being projected for like 18-20 per year.

btalbert25 |

2/11/2013 9:26:40 PM #

Poor Stubbs. A back up again. He may get traded twice before opening day.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 9:06:11 PM #

Here's a legitimately crazy idea: the Reds should sign Kyle Lohse.

Give him 3 years and oh, $30 million. He's gotta be desperate right now, right? Right. Move Chapman back into closing for this year, let him start next year when Bronson's gone.

Think about that - you'd make your biggest rival's ace your #5 guy. And there'd be no one that touches a rotation of Cueto/Bailey/Latos/Arroyo/Lohse.

I know - it won't happen. But man. That'd be awesome, right?

2/11/2013 9:07:13 PM #

(also that last post reflects a truth that I may not have mentioned: I'm deeply concerned with this bullpen. I have zero confidence in Broxton, and whatever less than zero is for Marshall. I really worry about what happens when Chapman starts.)

2/11/2013 9:18:32 PM #

Zero confidence? He worries me for sure but zero confidence might be strong. I think I'm the one who asked the user under on when Hoover gets the closer role.

Champ Summers |

2/11/2013 9:44:33 PM #

Cleveland could be sneaky good - Bourn, Swisher, Kipnis, Cabrera, Santana, Brantley, Reynolds, Aviles, Chisenhall is a really solid 1-9. That's good enough to be optimistic, I'd say.

And they've added four starters, plus Stubbs, this offseason, as well as a high ceiling starter in Trevor Bauer. You can't say they haven't tried to get a lot better, no matter what happens.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/11/2013 10:37:24 PM #

and a new manager in Terry Francona

2/12/2013 9:53:54 AM #

twitter.com/Reds/status/301342322313011201/photo/1

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 10:01:36 AM #

Ken Rosenthal ‏@Ken_Rosenthal

Remaining arbs: #Reds' Latos and Bailey, #Nationals' Zimmermann, #Padres' Richard. Of those, Latos viewed as most likely to go to hearing.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:52:11 PM #

so much for Rosenthal knowing what is going to happen, with the two year Latos deal announced today

2/12/2013 10:05:04 AM #

What I don't like about Chapman in the bullpen is, I don't think his arm is built for throwing 3-5 times per week.  Often when he pitches 2 days in a row, day 2 his velocity is down or it takes him several batters to really heat it up.  We've seen 2 seasons in a row where he's gone through a couple stretches where he just wasn't very good, and of course last year he had the arm fatigue issue and missed time.

People say to me all the time how is he going to be able to handle more innings then?  To me, it's not an innings thing.  I've pitched as both a starter and reliever, and though I wasn't an MLB pitcher, there's a big difference.  The season I was a reliever, my arm was basically sore every day.  There were days where I reached back and just didn't have anything, and got by with offspeed stuff and command.  I threw way more pitches as a starter, but my arm only was sore the day after a game when I was a starter, and I never had a dead arm.

Anyway, Chapman was great last season, but he hit that really bad stretch mid year and had the dead arm as a closer.  I think he's built to be a starter, I really do.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 10:10:15 AM #

I like the Choo move the Reds made but I have to be honest, at what Bourn ended up getting I would rather had him and then he could slide to left-field when Hamilton is ready. I'm still happy with what we have just saying I really like Bourn at that price.

2/12/2013 11:21:55 AM #

I was thinking that earlier. 12 Mil is nothing. Hard to believe that, but crazy to think he could of been had for that. I'm happy with Choo don't get me wrong, but Bourne for 12 million ain't a bad deal. Of course they could of went a little more agressively to get Span too I guess. Anyway, 1 year of Choo for 7 mil is pretty good too.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 11:23:22 AM #

I thought the same thing yesterday. After looking at the numbers, though, Bourn strikes out as much or more than Choo with much less power, average, and OBP. Bourn is also about the age where players like him start to decline. Once that happens and he loses a step, his numbers will drop even more. $12 million or more for Bourn in two years will be a terrible deal for him, IMO.

2/12/2013 11:36:53 AM #

my guess is the Indians trade him before the deadline.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:01:02 PM #

I woke up this morning and just knew that something was different. The sun is shining a little brighter, the birds are singing a bit sweeter. The morning routine went off without a hitch, hell my tea even tasted better. It must be the first day of SPRING!!!

2/12/2013 12:20:50 PM #

Mark Sheldon ‏@m_sheldon

Mat Latos and #reds avoids arbitration with new two year deal

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:25:01 PM #

Two years--hooray! Wish it were more, but it's better than just one and having to do this again next year. I think that's also a statement that he likes it here.

2/12/2013 12:34:07 PM #

Mark Sheldon ‏@m_sheldon

It's a two-year, $11.5 million contract for Latos and the #reds http://bit.ly/WYTHug

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:36:44 PM #

How would you like to go to the office one day and find out for the next 2 years you are going to make more than 10x's the salary you've made the last few years?

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 12:37:07 PM #

I wish I could threaten to go to arbitration!

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 12:45:59 PM #

I guess baseball is a little different than most jobs. If you want to get paid to play baseball in the US you essentially have 1 choice, MLB. Then you go to play in that one league and if you're a young guy you have to play for one team. You can't choose to leave. You are locked in and locked up.

Arbitration. decent compromise.

If I told my boss I wanted arbitration he's say find another job white boy.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:54:06 PM #

lol no doubt! I was just thinking that it's awesome. I do hate that players who had a horrible year or years (Stubbs) get raises simply because they are eligible for Arbitration though.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 12:37:17 PM #

hopefully if he plays well it a discount

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:42:08 PM #

MLB Network ‏@MLBNetwork

Coming up at 1pE on @MLBNetwork, relive the history of the @Reds franchise in a special @MLBProductions feature. pic.twitter.com/ePwRUmcb

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 12:51:20 PM #

2 years for Latos is HORRIBLE news. You buy out two arbitration years, but all you've now done is give Latos bargaining power in year three of arbitration. And if that doesn't go well, then he can just leave as a free agent.

This pretty much just guarantees there's no long term deal with Latos. Neat.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 12:53:40 PM #

I could see them approaching him sometime within the next year (assuming all goes well) with a longer-term deal. I think this was a show of good faith.

2/12/2013 12:54:57 PM #

I seem to remember someone named Votto who had a similar contract during his arb years and the Reds managed to keep him

2/12/2013 1:10:02 PM #

Yes, yes, yes. Same thing happened with Votto. Walt was berated about it then Votto surprisingly signs long-term. I would not be surprised to see the same happen with Cueto and Latos before it's over. Bailey will likely not (imo) and will be traded in his last year but I'm guessing one of the minor-league arms will be ready by then (or at least hoping) and the Reds will save a lot of money by not signing Homer long-term as a result. Heck, they can't sign them all long-term so someone has to go right?

2/12/2013 1:01:42 PM #

just had to say it:

PITCHERS AND CATCHERS REPORT TODAY!

2/12/2013 1:10:18 PM #

+1 eleventy.

2/12/2013 1:02:43 PM #

you expect Mat Latos to be here after his arb years?

He won't be here so might as well make the best of a bad situation.

His agent is doing what's best. getting him locked up for 2 was better than doing this again next year.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 1:04:06 PM #

Votto signed through all his arb years. That's a big difference.

Latos just took a discount for the first two years; most players don't give two discounts (heck, Votto didn't).

I'm not blaming the Reds or Walt, at all. If this was all that could get done, great. But it's disappointing as a guy who want Latos to be here a long, long time.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 1:07:41 PM #

Again, I take this as a good sign. They've been dating, now they're courting. They're not rushing into marriage, but I still think there's a chance it's coming.

2/12/2013 1:11:10 PM #

Well stated. I'm with the professor on this one.

2/12/2013 1:24:50 PM #

Not sure I want LAtos long term. Lets get his best years out of him and let someone else take on the declining years.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 1:29:36 PM #

I guess my idea of long-term for a pitcher is 3-5 yrs. I'm ok with that with Latos if he continues his current production.

2/12/2013 1:07:36 PM #

Heh. Yeah, Champ, I was hoping Latos would be here past 2015. I was hoping for a five or six year deal, honestly.

You're right - it was dumb and unrealistic, and from that perspective, this deal is good for the Reds.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 1:23:35 PM #

The maturity of Latos just screams "play for the big FA deal". It's likely that when that happens we won't be a player. If we're in contention in his final year he stays otherwise he gets dealt at the deadline.

This whole thin is about winning in 2013,2014,2015 and then all bets are off. By 2016 the staff will be blown up. Maybe we have Cueto, Stephenson but Bailey, Latos and Chapman will be out of here.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 1:55:41 PM #

Honestly, I don't blame them though. Not saying anyone else does, but when you see the contracts pitchers get, if you are a top flight type of pitcher why on earth wouldn't you go for the big payoff? Bailey doesn't care for it here, Chapman left his home and family to play in MLB, I'm sure he won't mind leaving Cincinnati to make more money. Latos, I like and want around, but he still has problems staying composed on the mound, and it may get fixed or may stay about the same. He's really good either way. I'm glad we didn't lock him up for 5 years, though, no knowing if he'll make the jump from really good to truly Elite(one of the 5 best in baseball) status.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 2:12:50 PM #

I don't blame them at all. I would do the same thing in almost every scenario.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 1:57:25 PM #

BASEBALL BASEBALL BASEBALL BASEBALL BASEBALL!!!!!!!!!

2/12/2013 3:11:16 PM #

and don't forget BASEBALL.

2/12/2013 2:01:14 PM #

I'm not so sure Cueto will be here long term. Someone on the Enquirer brought up Felix Hernandez' contract the other day and noted that Cueto has a better W/L record, ERA and WHIP than the guy who (probably at least) will be guaranteed $175 mil. Cueto could very easily end up with a contract north of $100 million from someone, and it's hard to imagine that'll be us.

The bottom line: we should all enjoy the next three years, and hope there's a World Series title involved, because it doesn't look likely we can keep any of these pitchers.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 2:14:05 PM #

unless the way payroll is done changes I take the same point of view.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:12:24 PM #

Fay says Cueto NOT pitching in WBC, according to Dusty. Woo Hoo!

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 2:19:22 PM #

Love it. If he's going to wear himself down let him do it in a Reds uniform.

Reading where a lot of guys are pulling out. They say no one has really gotten hurt in the past except for a few occasions. Peole say if your going to get hurt your going to get hurt.

I say if you are going to get hurt do it while wearing the uniform of the team locked into that guaranteed contract.

One other item, if you are a true competitor you are giving it everything you have to win for your country. On March 10th you aren't ready to give it your all especially with 6 months of pennant race ahead of you.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:23:09 PM #

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

All pitchers and catchers are here except LH Ismael Guillon. Visa problems. Shoud be here shortly. #reds #cincienquirer

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:13:01 PM #

Mark Sheldon ‏@m_sheldon

Me! RT @knoll911 OK so who is in the "best shape of their life"
Expand

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:15:02 PM #

http://instagram.com/p/VpGTTsSlo1/

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:20:37 PM #

They need to make the WBC an amateur thing. They invented it because of baseball being booted from the Olympics, and with the idea it would be some sort of baseball world cup, but it's just not. Does any club really want any of their pitchers playing in this thing? I'm not crazy about any of the MLB players taking part really, if it were my team anyway.

It would be cool to see a baseball tournament once in a while where the best of the best play and duke it out like the World Cup, but I just don't think it's realistic for baseball.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 2:31:50 PM #

Saw this on Dallas Latos' twitter account.

adamlucasdesign.files.wordpress.com/.../...gab.jpg

When did she go blonde?

2/12/2013 2:44:31 PM #

Not a Red but here we go

Ken Rosenthal ‏@Ken_Rosenthal

#Angels’ Hamilton ate healthier, reported at about 225. Would be 245-255 in Texas at start of camp, knowing he would lose weight in-season.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 2:48:06 PM #

uh...

Brandon Phillips ‏@DatDudeBP

WTF? Still in ATL & I'm the #Token on team😝 RT @MissEnquirer: Looks like #Reds @datdudebp is ready to roll in Goodyear http://lockerz.com/s/282956018

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 3:25:54 PM #

Let's hope he meant he's the token Red on the U.S. WBC team

2/12/2013 3:25:15 PM #

Fun recap of the night that Rose broke the hits record: www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php

2/12/2013 4:06:37 PM #

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

How this for a close call: #Reds and Latos were in room for the hearing when the deal got done. #cincienquirer

When is Bailey's arb hearing?

2/12/2013 4:30:03 PM #

I absolutely love the statement on Rolen.  Of course he doesn't want to make a commitment at this time and Walt won't comment on it further.  It is what it is at this point.  Here's the most important part from Rolen:

I would like to leave my options open, without closing any doors.

He still probably wants to play, probably only a few teams he might consider, maybe only the Reds.  There's no way he has any interest in competing with Hannahan or doing anything in the Spring.  It's Frazier's job.  So now everyone waits and sees.  Rolen gets extra time at home.  The Reds get to see what they have.  Come May once someone gets hurt, someone isn't performing, and the weather is warm, the Reds will make the call.  Rolen will spend a couple weeks in Louisville getting ready and then join the Reds when needed to finish out his career as a part time player.  This time he'll go out in style.

Fay drives me nuts.  My soon to be 5 year old has more original thought.

2/12/2013 8:30:03 PM #

I couldn't agree more. That statement screams Rolen is going to give his body a rest and if he's needed he'll be back after the All Star break. In no way was the door shut on his career.

He's not retiring. What more do you need to see this is a way to allow Rolen to come back if he wants to and we need him.

By saying nothing it keeps the media and the fans from asking the question every time Frazier has am 0 for 12 streak. It lets the team move on without the lingering question but doesn't close the door.

I like it.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 4:34:50 PM #

This Rolen thing is insane. He had freaking five months to decide and he still hasn't. Either that or he wants to start, and that's just crazy.

Also, Cueto said he want to pitch in the WBC. Also, that's insane. I wish the whole stupid thing would just go away.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/12/2013 5:19:47 PM #

I was shocked that it hadn't. I really didn't think it was happening after the last one.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 5:38:15 PM #

I think it's important for baseball the sport, but not for MLB. They need to make it more like Olympic baseball. The 2008 Olympics and WBC since have basically opened China up to the game of baseball. If you went to China 10 years ago, NO ONE played baseball. I read an article that talked about Jim Lefebvre going over there and organizing baseball in anticipation of the 2008 games. At first he was getting, not even high school talent, now they have a solid and growing baseball program.

Since baseball isn't played in the Olympics anymore, there needs to be a major international competition. I read a few years back where Germany has a very strong and popular youth baseball program. When the WBC came about The Netherlands wanted to put together a team so they could beat Germany. Baseball will never surpass soccer in those countries, but at least it'll be played and is gaining popularity in places it was never really played or liked before. Hell it was banned in China for a long time.

btalbert25 |

2/12/2013 8:31:15 PM #

to think Rolen is some Farve type, no way...this is walt at his craftiest.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 10:05:59 PM #

Couldn't agree more. Rolen doesn't need Spring Training or the colder weather months. He doesn't need much time get ready. Two weeks in Louisville when the Reds need him will be just fine. And if Votto and Frazier both stay healthy, Frazier proves last year wasn't a fluke, and Hannahan and the rest of the bench pans out, then I'm sure Rolen will be perfectly content to stay home or find a part time job with another club in contention. This situation is a win win for the Reds and Rolen.

2/12/2013 7:00:13 PM #

Dallas Latos ‏@DallasLatos

It was a long day for the boys… they’re spent. #Reds #springtraining #cat #catstagram http://instagr.am/p/VpkwHfSlsL/

2/12/2013 8:14:03 PM #

This was taken from sheldon's article

Cueto has not been named to represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

"I don't know yet," Cueto said of his status. "I want to."

Knock it off Cueto. This is about winning the Pennant.

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 8:15:55 PM #

this too from Sheldon

• The Reds announced Tuesday they signed right-handed pitcher Dakota Mitchell from Australia. Mitchell, 18, attended the MLB Australian Academy for the past two years.

Who?

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 8:20:39 PM #

Nice Choo piece from Sheldon.

Choo declined Korea's invitation to play in the World Baseball Classic, in which he participated in 2009. There are simply too many changes happening in his baseball life to get distracted.

"The Korean team is really upset," Choo said. "If I wasn't traded, maybe it would have been a different story. I have a different position and new teammates. I want to spend more time with my teammates. A lot of people say 'you're already playing in the Major Leagues, don't worry about it.' I know since playing in the Minor Leagues how important it is to be on a team with your teammates. The communication is very, very important for me. I think it's more important than baseball. It was a tough decision to make to not play for the Korean team. But this is my new team."

Here is the entire story

cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/.../article.jsp

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 8:34:00 PM #

That's good stuff right there. Makes up for this "I'll try" comment.

2/12/2013 8:51:55 PM #

As a former catholic with kids in Catholic school...this is awesome

jimmy fallon ‏@jimmyfallon

Tomorrow's the first day of Lent. Some Catholics give up chocolate, some give up alcohol, and one is giving up “being Pope.”

Champ Summers |

2/12/2013 10:01:32 PM #

This is great.

2/12/2013 8:52:50 PM #

BTW, happy Fat Tuesday.

Where are my beads? Show your ......

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 9:47:57 AM #

Remember this from yesterday.

This pic is of OF Derrick Robinson(in a whispering tone...he's black too)

Brandon Phillips ‏@DatDudeBP

WTF? Still in ATL & I'm the #Token on team😝 RT @MissEnquirer: Looks like #Reds @datdudebp is ready to roll in Goodyear http://lockerz.com/s/282956018

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 1:31:43 PM #

Bad job by Miss Enquirer. Also, who is Derrick Robinson and when did the Reds sign him? I assume he was picked up on a minor league deal?

2/13/2013 2:48:29 PM #

Yeah, he's some speed guy the Royals cut loose. He's a good defender but not much pop.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 11:45:16 AM #

cincinnati.com/.../

great stuff from Baker here. He echos my sentiments. Can't believe we're on the same page.

liked this little excerpt.

“We have spring training for a reason, where guys go two, four, five, five, seven (innings),” Baker said. “Most of them endurance-wise can’t go more than seven innings (out of spring training). That’s why the bullpens are so important early.

“Those guys are going to try to do more if the game’s close. Imagine a 0-0 game or 1-0 against Venezuela and you got take him out. He’s not going to come out and I don’t blame him.”

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 11:55:24 AM #

Preach it, Dusty! I'm glad he's not staying silent about this.

2/13/2013 12:02:30 PM #

Been there

Marc Topkin ‏@TBTimes_Rays

Here's one for the weird spring injury lists @jaysonst: #Rays Peralta hurt his neck getting out of car when he stopped for sandwiches.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 1:57:41 PM #

That must be some sandwich.

2/13/2013 12:45:18 PM #

Hey gang, just read the entire thread. Some interesting news, stuff, points of view, etc., as always. The excitement of ST is definitely in the air on RO. I stay pretty busy with WVU sports until basketball season is over, as all know, don't post too often, but read the threads a lot.

For what it is worth, which is very little at this point, most of what I read on here is really positive stuff on the upcoming season.

By the way, not worried about Choo, in any way. He will be a real positive to the team, regardless of his defense in CF. Personally, I don't have any worry about him on that front either, as i stated when we first got him. I love the way he plays, approaches the game. barring injury, he will be a huge boost to this team. A difference maker, IMO.

Unlike some, like some others, I really like the way Walt and Rolen are approaching this season. I agree with the win-win side of the argument presented by BJ and others.

While I have been a big Frazier fan ever since he got here, I am not convinced he will have a real solid season, be a long time starter over at 3rd, but, obviously, I hope he does. Got to remember the Sparky formula--1,000 AB's before we know. I do hope he has really worked on his defense, as it is just average at third at best. Hope he also works on shortening that long arm action on throws.

Here is hoping Mes makes a comeback as well. i certainly think he will at some point, but want it to be this year.

Also, I am not worried about the back of the pen if Chapman is moved to the starting rotation. I like Broxton better than some on here, think he will be fine. Throw in a Marshall, Hoover, Ondrusek ( my comeback player of the year for the Reds ), we will be fine.

I think we are in for a huge, huge year.

Later

.genewv |

2/13/2013 1:15:42 PM #

HalMcCoy_Reds ‏@HalMcCoy_Reds

The 'Lion-Hearted' Homer Bailey http://dlvr.it/2xb1DN

I had no idea anyone hunted lions with bow and arrows

2/13/2013 1:28:19 PM #

Good stuff from Hal on Bailey and Snacks.

Bow and arrow hunting must be the new big thing for hunters. Iowa's quarterback killed a bear with a bow and arrow last winter.

2/13/2013 1:50:21 PM #

This is a great piece. It really shouldn't surprise or amaze me, but Hal blows Fay away. It's like comparing me to my 5 year old who doesn't even know all of his letters yet.

I really think I am becoming a Dusty fan. I still don't think he's the best guy for a team full of unproven players, but for this Reds team at this time, there aren't many I'd rather have. Of the guys I might think are better in game than him, I'd probably take Dusty in the end because of his personality and character.

2/13/2013 1:35:48 PM #

Just turn this on as background music.

news.cincinnati.com/.../Spring-training-batting-practice

2/13/2013 1:40:28 PM #

you just beat me to it

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 2:03:50 PM #

Homer Bailey may look like Batman (Christian Bale) but he hunts like Hawkeye from the Avengers. - Maybe Green Arrow? I guess he could be Red Arrow.

Anyway, lion, 600 lbs, arrow - impressive. Chapman would have just hit him square in the head with a fastball but still impressive.

2/13/2013 2:09:42 PM #

Saw this quote today and liked it:

“He’s the conductor of his own crazy train,” it came from the following article:

Read more: www.foxnews.com/.../#ixzz2Ko9kmKCB

Crazy knows no bounds.

2/13/2013 7:22:40 PM #

+1 for working in "Crazy knows no bounds."

2/13/2013 2:48:31 PM #

So, something I keep reading about that continues to bother me is some variation of the following sentence:

'The Cincinnati Reds are due to regress from 2012's win total, if nothing else because Houston is now in the AL and cannot be kicked around anymore.'

Seriously - I must have read this three dozen times this offseason, and just freaking read it this morning. And it's unbelievably stupid logic, for the obvious reason that Houston played everyone else too. In fact, look:

2012 Reds VS Astros - 10-5
2012 Cardinal VS Astros - 11-4

If you took the Astros out of the division last year, the Reds actually would have won the division my more than they did! Also, against everyone not named Houston, the Reds went 87-60, or, if you prefer, had a .591 winning percentage. That winning percentage, over 162 games, is 96 wins.

So, to review: the Houston Astros' effect on the Reds last year was to give them a whopping one more win than you'd expect against everyone else, and to actually decrease their division title margin.

I found this information in thirty seconds. I wish people would take thirty seconds to think before they found a reason to say the Reds aren't the favorites in the division. It's really pretty annoying.

2/13/2013 3:12:28 PM #

I find it silly too. We play the AL West for interleague so we get the A's and Rangers but we also get the Mariners and a 3 game set in Sept against guess who? The Lastros. We also have the Mets late. I read somewhere recently that they may have the worst outfield in the history of baseball.

There was talk of bolstering the OF by making a trade after Bourn signed elsewhere. One suggestion was drew Stubbs.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 2:56:41 PM #

Lots of bow hunters in Southern WV, as gun hunting ( except a short muzzle loading season ) in many of the counties in this region was banned 25-30 years ago, not because of any danger involved, but because of the low numbers in big game like deer and bear.

Almost all hunters here bow hunt in one form or another. Almost all the other deer populated counties in WV allow gun hunting--except near towns or cities, of course.

Actually , the bear harvest was
"down" in WV this year, but still almost 3,00 were harvested, so, I would say the population is obviously back. You might run into a bear or deer anywhere, including your back yard.

Anyway, we now have folks coming down from Canada to deer and bear hunt in WV. Blows my mind.

Me, I am no hunter unless it can be found in the freezer, refrige, or someones
's frying pan.

.genewv |

2/13/2013 3:06:45 PM #

I've never been one for hunting either. I'd rather just see the animals. I like to fish though, but even then most of my time doing that is spent hiking through creek beds and floating down rivers in Kayaks.

btalbert25 |

2/13/2013 2:58:22 PM #

PS: You probably did not hear the explosion when my mind blew!

.genewv |

2/13/2013 3:04:00 PM #

chicagocubsonline.com/.../...ment-for-the-cubs.php)

So, something called PECOTA projected the 2013 season, and has a not as good as 2012 Reds team winning the division by 8 games. So there's that.

Of course, in 2012, PECOTA projected the Reds to win 86 games and finish in third place behind St. Louis and Milwaukee. So... there's that.

2/13/2013 3:14:27 PM #

If the Nats win only 88 games with that staff and pen I'll eat my car freshener.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 3:19:23 PM #

Agreed. I think they're the team to beat. (Unless Gio gets suspended for PEDs--hope, hope, hope)

2/13/2013 5:04:42 PM #

There's talk about the Nats signing Kyle Lohse as a "just in case" Gonzalez is suspended. Expensive insurance.

Frank_Robinsons_Ghost |

2/13/2013 3:16:19 PM #

I'm with you on the stuff about the Astros. So they play 15 games against other teams. If they go 7-8 in those games, they have 94 wins instead of 97. Still a damn good year. Still doesn't account for playing a likely worse Cards team, still bad Cubs, and also improvements the team has made in the off season.

btalbert25 |

2/13/2013 3:20:29 PM #

Man, we need a spring training preview thread.

Might be fun to analyze Starting Pitchers and catchers, Bullpen, IF and OF. We could spread that out over a few weeks plus our prediction thread.

I think we did this a couple years back. Put our own spin on things and comment away.

I'll take one category, don't care what.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 3:22:50 PM #

this is one Doc should love

www.thedailybeast.com/.../when-in-doubt-sue.html

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 3:29:28 PM #

I'm sure you can guess which side I take on this one.

2/13/2013 3:26:38 PM #

On Washington:

I really, truly believe they could be 75 Reds good. Here's why:

- To a 97 win team, they added Dan Haren, Denard Span, and Rafael Soriano, while only losing Edwin Jackson. That's, oh - 3 wins?

- Then there's this: they had a ton of injuries last year. Drew Storen was out for the first half; Jayson Werth and Ryan Zimmerman missed a ton of time too. And they didn't miss a beat.

- Finally, if the Astros are worth a win less for the Reds, what are Miami and New York for Washington?

Add it all up, and if Washington gains six or seven wins, is anyone surprised? And at that point, they're a 103-104 win team. A little luck and who knows?

2/13/2013 3:32:32 PM #

And don't forget that Strasburg and Harper are both a year older (and they might actually let Strasburg start for an entire season). I'm with you: That team is loaded.

2/13/2013 3:30:32 PM #

Also, I think the Reds could be just as good as Washington. Remember how the Reds won 97 games with a .240 OBP from the leadoff spot (a.k.a. the spot that gets the most ABs in a season)? And how we just added a guy who posted a .393 OBP in the leadoff spot last year? And how Votto missed 50 games? And how there's more starting pitching depth this year? And how Aroldis Chapman just may be Randy Johnson?

I don't see the Reds taking a step back at all. The only way they win fewer games is if they coast at the end because they've wrapped up the division with three weeks left.

2/13/2013 3:35:38 PM #

One other thing, while I'm procrastinating from doing any of the work I have to do this afternoon:

There's been a lot of talk about the Reds not having any injuries last year in the rotation. And that's fine. But here's something to think about:

- Cueto and Bailey have had injuries in the past; but, their mechanics and deliveries and workout regimens are specifically built BECAUSE of those injuries. In other words, they are who they are in part to avoid the injuries they suffered early in their careers.

- Arroyo is a workhorse, and Latos is pretty freaking close to that. There's zero reason to expect they'll suddenly get hurt.

- Mike Leake wasn't very good in 2012. So, sure, he didn't get hurt - but he also wasn't exactly lighting the world on fire.

I don't expect to be as healthy in 2013. But I also don't see a reason to assume everything will just fall apart, either. And again - when Leake and Cingrani are guys #6 and 7, you can afford a DL stint or three.

I really don't think it's a concern at all.

2/13/2013 3:55:04 PM #

The local paper had a story a week or so ago about which wines to pair with Girl Scout cookies; it now has one for pairings with beer

manhattanbeach.patch.com/.../pair-craft-beer-with-those-girl-scout-cookies

2/13/2013 4:01:23 PM #

I'll drink a Franz with anything...We have to hide the GS cookies at my house.

Champ Summers |

2/13/2013 4:18:18 PM #

I say a healty Votto = no infield pop-ups in 2013: www.fangraphs.com/.../

2/13/2013 7:55:38 PM #

We really do need some preview threads. I don't know if I have time in the next few weeks. Anybody want to do one? SP, RP, IF, OF, bench? Or how should we split things up?

2/13/2013 9:08:40 PM #

I'm taking one but it doesn't matter which. We can write them and put them in the can. Release them when the thread is getting too long or too dry.

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 8:59:05 AM #

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN

Happy birthday to Tyler Clippard, Scott Scudder and Dave Dravecky... www.baseball-reference.com/friv/birthdays.cgi … They likely got double valentines in 1st grade.

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 9:21:00 AM #

What? is this for real?

tv.yahoo.com/.../...er-ever--video--225433197.html

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 9:28:08 AM #

Okay, that was good--but here's the best teen answer ever: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CzEx7Z4QIk

2/14/2013 9:41:24 AM #

way better. Didn't that whole thing seem fixed?? Either that kid has nerves of steel or something smells.

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 10:06:18 AM #

This is my favorite Jeopardy answer ever. When the girl answers it correctly at the end she gives a little smirk like she's about to bust out laughing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVXy4JNcUdc

btalbert25 |

2/14/2013 1:48:00 PM #

Reds Reds ‏@Reds

Miguel Cairo joins Reds' baseball operations staff as special assistant to general manager Walt Jocketty.

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 1:57:05 PM #

This is legitimately awesome.

2/14/2013 2:14:29 PM #

Cairo, 38, spent the 2010-12 seasons with the Reds, contributing in a utility role. In a 17-year career that includes stints with nine teams, he has a .264/.314/.361 batting line. Cairo earned approximately $10MM as a player, including $1MM per season for 2011-12.

What do you think his new job pays? can it justify 6 figures?

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 4:11:16 PM #

probably not,but I think he will end up a ML manager at some point, and this is a key step for him to take experience wise

2/14/2013 2:18:45 PM #

very glad to see him within the organization--his physical skills were not tops, but his attitude and ethics make up for it and make him a valuable asset post playing days

2/14/2013 2:36:47 PM #

For sure - in that Frazier interview someone posted the other day, he said that Cairo had as big an influence on him as any of the coaches last year.

2/14/2013 1:49:17 PM #

This is worth the 5 minute read

Mark Sheldon ‏@m_sheldon

Early items: Leake still in Baker's plans, Masset update and more http://bit.ly/X7zdB4 #reds

Champ Summers |

2/14/2013 2:50:15 PM #

That Maddux/Leake story is yet another example of why everyone loves playing for Dusty. For all his flaws, he sure is a heck of a good guy when it comes to working with the players.

2/14/2013 3:11:14 PM #

Yep. Here's the coolest line:

“He’s a Maddux type. I made a call to Greg and Greg talked to him about some things.”

2/14/2013 4:17:39 PM #

I'm sure I'll do my fair share of complaining about Dusty's in-game management again this year, but he does bring a lot to the table as manager. The good with Dusty definitely outweighs the bad.

2/14/2013 3:12:46 PM #

Cairo hire = Great.

2/14/2013 3:13:25 PM #

I guess he's now "COACH Monkey Poop."

2/14/2013 4:18:04 PM #

Heh, +1

2/14/2013 4:01:30 PM #

Thrilled with the Cairo hire. Seriously--that makes me very happy.

2/14/2013 4:18:52 PM #

Hopefully you'll have some good Cairo stories to share from spring training again this year

2/14/2013 4:27:49 PM #

Most of my gripes about Dusty over the past two years have been about the top spots in the batting order and veterans playing over youngsters. Now that we've resolved most of those issues (I hope, I hope), I trust that I won't be harping on Dusty as much. I really do like the guy, and he does indeed bring a lot to the table as a manager of players.

2/14/2013 4:29:16 PM #

He'll still have to use the bullpen and make pinch hitting decisions. My guess is we'll find plenty to complain about.

2/14/2013 4:34:34 PM #

I have to believe that any of our current pinch hitting options are better than Cairo and Valdez. I don't remember fussing too much last year about his bullpen choices, but maybe I'm just blocking it out.

2/14/2013 4:43:35 PM #

it was hard to bitch much when the bullpen was the best in baseball

2/14/2013 4:58:21 PM #

Yep - the biggest gripes were early on when Chapman wasn't the closer. And those were totally justified - he was criminally ignoring the fact that we had the best arm in baseball while the likes of Bill Bray gave away games.

Once he got shifted to closer (a decision that should have been made from day one, in hindsight), there was nothing to complain about.

2/14/2013 4:58:52 PM #

Of course, how much Dusty has a say over Chapman's role is certainly debatable.

2/14/2013 5:04:32 PM #

Serious question:

Let's say that it appears that Mike Leake in the spring is the 2011 Mike Leake - basically, Bronson Arroyo. See, look:

Leake, 2011 - 12-9, 3.86 ERA
Arroyo, 2012 - 12-10, 3.74 ERA

Obviously, those aren't the greatest stats to evaluate a pitcher, but you get the point. 2011 Mike Leake was a great #3ish starter who was, arguably, the Reds' best pitcher that year (at least the most valuable).

If THAT Mike Leake is back, is it worth it to move Chapman back to the bullpen in order to completely maximize 2013? We KNOW that Chapman in the bullpen is lights out; we KNOW Mike Leake can be Bronson Arroyo. Is that known quantity worth it on a team with World Series aspirations?

I think it might be. I know not all of you like WAR, but Chapman's last year was 3.3. That's roughly what Mat Latos was worth (3.1). And sure - it could double if he was in the rotation, but if you know you can get 3 WAR out of the bullpen, why not just do it, assuming Leake returns to form?

If it's 2012 Leake, forget all this. But if Leake really does adjust and comes back strong, this becomes a very interesting decision, I think.

2/14/2013 5:08:18 PM #

I think the Reds are committed to Chapman as a starter. It would take an injury to Broxton for them to even consider moving him. (Or if Chapman flopped as a starter)

2/14/2013 5:12:37 PM #

My only comment is, if they don't move Chapman for the rotation this year, they never should. This will be his 4th season and it would be stupid to waste a whole year next season grooming him to be a starter just so someone else ends up with him in a couple years. Can't do anything about what's already happened, but they goofed around with him for too long and unfortunately if we want to find out if he's the next Randy Johnson or not, this is the year to figure it out. If not, make him the closer for the rest of his time here.

btalbert25 |

2/15/2013 9:08:37 AM #

I'm with Talbert on this one, the move is a bit late already imo but I understand the circumstances that lead to his being in the bullpen.

2/14/2013 5:11:32 PM #

I wish I could share in all the flowery rhetoric about Dusty. I love the guy. I really do. Of course, he has many, many great attributes that make him a wonderful manager. I love that he has taken the team from the ghetto of baseball to the upscale suburbs. I'm giving you all fair warning though, that I think he'll do many, many things that aggravate the $h!T out of me this season and I'll be spouting off about how ridiculous his decision du jour appears from the outside. It's the nature of the beast. Just saying.

Dawgindetroit

2/15/2013 9:09:34 AM #

Dusty confounds me sometimes also, I expect it will continue to some degree.

2/15/2013 9:11:08 AM #

Ash- Leake may very well be Bronson next year considering Arroyo is in the last year of his contract.

What do you all think? It's early yet but does Bronson come back for another couple of years or move on elsewhere?

2/15/2013 9:46:24 AM #

That really depends on Bronson and what kind of money he wants. He could probably command a nice salary from someone else.

btalbert25 |

2/15/2013 9:58:48 AM #

That's kind of my thought too talbert, of course it depends a LOT on whether we have the 2011 Bronson or the 2012 Bronson. I believe we'll likely see the 2012 Bronson again this year.

2/15/2013 10:00:20 AM #

I read something somewhere yesterday where Bronson acknowledged that this is probably his last year as a Red.

2/15/2013 11:02:58 AM #

I don't think the Reds will have Bronson back regardless. They basically have a potentially younger version of him in Leake plus they have Cingrani and Corcino who could potentially be ready next season and have even higher upsides. Bringing back Bronson for anything more than dirt cheap next season makes no sense. That money will be used to pay all these extensions and hopefully give the Reds a little payroll flexibility to either resign a Bailey/Latos long term or use it on the FA market.

2/15/2013 9:12:19 AM #

Has anyone started working on a preview of the Reds outfield yet? If not I'd be happy to work on a starter that does so.

2/15/2013 12:51:06 PM #

Sounds like you're clear Thank you!

2/15/2013 11:52:42 AM #

Richard Justice ‏@richardjustice

Reds going for 3rd playoff appearance in last 4 years under GM Walt Jocketty. Before he arrived, they'd made postseason 3 times in 29 years.

the next time we need a bit of perspective

2/15/2013 12:38:02 PM #

Yep, amazing. I just wish one of these years I'd win the Opening Day ticket lottery. I can't justify scalper prices and season tickets obviously aren't an option, unless of course I win the lottery.

2/15/2013 1:26:45 PM #

Isn't today the day we are supposed to find out who, if anyone, was selected in the ticket lottery?

Statmom |

2/15/2013 1:38:29 PM #

I got a rejection this morning. I can't go, but I put in for a friend of mine. The powerpack tomorrow is intriguing, but I'd have to put I honestly would probably sell them to pay for the rest of the powerpack.

btalbert25 |

2/15/2013 10:20:51 PM #

I was not selected either . . .

"Thank you for registering for a chance to purchase tickets for the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day game, scheduled for April 1, 2013. Unfortunately your entry was not selected for this ticket purchase opportunity."

Statmom |

2/15/2013 12:37:55 PM #

I really think WJ may be one of the brightest minds in baseball today. We are lucky to have him. He might be as smart as Tony Ralooser thought he was.

2/15/2013 1:29:06 PM #

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

Asked Votto, who speaks English, Spanish, French, if he's going to learn Korean for Choo. "If he's a good enough teammate, I will."

I take this to say "not on a one year rental agreement"

2/15/2013 1:38:47 PM #

2/15/2013 1:54:58 PM #

I'm chagrined that Joey can't say his knee is 100 percent, and yet he still wants to play for Canada in the WBC. C'mon, Joey.

cincinnati.com/.../

2/15/2013 4:16:48 PM #

This is very interesting...

www.mlbinjurynews.com/.../...t-didi-gregorius.html

2/15/2013 5:13:38 PM #

I hope Didi recovers and plays well for the Diamondbacks. I don't want teams thinking they don't want to trade with the Reds.

2/15/2013 4:46:54 PM #

I don't mind regulars playing in the WBC as much as I do pitchers to be honest. With that being said I hope Joey doesn't play. Coming off injury is the main reason I guess.

2/15/2013 6:09:10 PM #

Just saw that the date for Homer's arb hearing is Monday. Who thinks there'll be a deal before that? I kinda think he goes to a hearing, just to hear what the team says about him.

2/15/2013 6:41:36 PM #

I have a feeling that a last minute deal gets done. Hope the feeling is correct. I thimk it may be important to Homer's sometimes delicate psyche to keep the love fest going.

2/15/2013 9:37:22 PM #

Oh Lord, here we go again...

cincinnati.com/.../

And I was just saying nice things about Dusty...

2/15/2013 10:25:06 PM #

I am not surprised by this. Take a look at this part of the article:

“We have guys who may not be 35, 36, 37 years old,” Baker said, “but we have guys with six or seven years in the big leagues. I think the experience outweighs the age.”

Remember Edgar Renteria. I'm still fuming about that.

Statmom |

2/16/2013 7:18:51 AM #

Remember Edgar Renteria? I'll NEVER forget.

2/16/2013 11:21:13 AM #

I suspect that Cozart is going to get plenty of days off again this year.

2/16/2013 11:23:45 AM #

Interesting read on Chapman: www.cincinnatimagazine.com/.../story.aspx

I'm supportive of the Reds trying him as a starter this year, but it will be interesting to see how it goes. Hopefully he'll continue to mature and get more comfortable living in the U.S.

2/16/2013 11:29:58 AM #

Good to see the Reds reached a deal with Bailey. Sounds like he got the same one-year deal as Jordan Zimmerman

2/16/2013 11:37:05 AM #

From yesterday...

I have a feeling that a last minute deal gets done. Hope the feeling is correct. I thimk it may be important to Homer's sometimes delicate psyche to keep the love fest going.

2/16/2013 11:38:11 AM #

I didn't see this--where's the source?

If it is indeed just a one-year deal, I think it's further evidence that Homer might not be in the long-term plans of the Reds.

2/16/2013 12:24:46 PM #

Reds.com

marksheldon.mlblogs.com/.../

2/16/2013 12:41:13 PM #

I knew Homer was better on the road than at home, but I didn't realize this:

leading the National League with a 2.32 road ERA.

2/16/2013 1:04:18 PM #

It's why I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't sign with the Reds beyond his final arb year in 2014. 21 of the 26 home runs he gave up last year came at GABP despite the fact he pitched more innings on the road. For his career his ERA is about 1.35 lower for away games. I know he's complained in the past about both the mound and the short fences, but you have to think part of it is mental.

2/16/2013 12:42:15 PM #

Jocketty said “at some point,” the club would revisit trying to sign Bailey to a multi-year contract.

2/16/2013 12:55:07 PM #

Taken from the Mark Sheldon article linked above btw.

2/16/2013 1:40:11 PM #

The Maddon gnome may be the best bobblehead I've ever seen: www.cbssports.com/.../21715597

2/16/2013 2:32:02 PM #

Seriously awesome.

2/16/2013 2:43:08 PM #

Now it really feels like baseball season is right around the corner. I just got my confirmation notice from MLB.TV for this season. Also got tickets offered for the Reds/Miami game on 4/20. Bring it on!

2/16/2013 2:45:02 PM #

... Oh, and I just checked and that is BP bobblehead day. Think I better firm that up, quick.

2/16/2013 10:16:33 PM #

Wanted to throw in a big approval for Cairo being retained with the team-both a nice move, and a good one as well. Much of what he has brought to the team was off the field to begin with, so a continuation of that relationship is a good deal all around.

No that it matters, but I noticed in my bear stats for WV, I said just short of 300 were harvested, I should have posted just under 3,000--thought I did, but, we know how that goes on this end.

BTA,

I, too, got into fishing because I never cared much for killing anything, wanted to spend time with my dad outdoors, so I chose fishing as the avenue best suited for my personality and his interest. I could catch them, turn them loose, if i wanted to do so--which I did often--most of the time, in fact--still do, except for a few Walleye we eat from Canada. It is hard to throw all those good tasting rascals back.

Dawg, RF, I am sure we will all have our moments with Dusty and the in game stuff--keeps us entertained.

.genewv |

2/17/2013 12:12:43 AM #

Gene, I have a good friend who bought a boat for Walleye Fishing Lake Erie. He works with a guy who knows the lake and his dad and brother may even be pros. Anyway, last year we went up there on a Saturday and fished the whole day, we had the wrong coordinates for the GPS, so we didn't have much luck, BUT once we got on them, all 3 of us landed a really nice fish. My buddy whose boat we were on got one about 10 1/2 lbs. I had an 8 pounder and the other guy got one about 6lbs.

His co-worker and his dad and brother kept sending us pics on the cellphone of 10-13lbs Walleye they were catching. They all 3 caught their limit of 5 each, Kept all the 4-6 pounders and threw back over 12 10+ pound Walleye! We were disappointed to not be on them all day, but once we started hauling in those hosses, it more than made up for it.

btalbert25 |

2/17/2013 9:49:20 AM #

news.cincinnati.com/.../gallery

Fay should have no credibility. This guy covers Reds baseball and only Reds baseball and gets paid for it and this is the non-sense he comes up with????

To me it quite obvious Nick Massett is out for a long while and we could be looking at a 60 day DL trip minimum. Even then, shoulders are tricky as heck. He may never get all the way back. Bringing his name up as if he could have a shot seems silly.

IMO, JJ Hoover has what it takes to be THE guy in the pen. No Hoover to me is ridiculous.

I really don't think Chapman starts the season in the rotation as a traditional starter. They have a plan to make him available in October and its not by letting him start the year piling up innings in April...especially with Mike Leake's success in the spring.

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 9:58:30 AM #

+1 Fay writes with absolutely no passion at all. He just mails it in. I'm not even sure he likes baseball that much. With newspapers dying a quick death--and baseball writers that actually love the game maybe being available, you would think you could find someone that actually digs in a little and writes like he or she cares.

I'm sure he is a nice guy, but as a fan I expect more. I learn more from everyone on this blog than I have ever learned from Fay and the Enquirer. Thanks to all here for your passion and love for the game and our Reds.

Hebron Reds Fan |

2/17/2013 11:45:31 AM #

indeed. I know its not the beat writers job to have an opinion. He is supposed to report what he sees. One might say he isn't supposed to ruffle feathers but by putting a prediction out there he is editorializing not just reporting. Mike Leake could be put off buy this prediction. Based on this he's not even on the roster. I guess there's certain guys you can piss of and others you don't.

If he is going to interject his point of view on occasion at least make it look like you did your homework.

If there is something Reds out there by a writer I read it. If he did that plus use the access to the players, coaches and executives i think he might be able to produce some content people actually gave a crap about.

As Hebron says, this place is a more enjoyable source despite not one of us having a clue about the day to day inside stuff.

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 12:00:25 PM #

Leatherpants thinks Chapman will return to the bullpen.

network.yardbarker.com/.../12923761

There has been much discussion about what to do with Chapman. One thing that has not,to my knowledge, been recently reported and that I would like to know is what does Chapman want to do. While I realize the Reds control him, I think what Chapman wants impacts how he will adjust to his role.

Statmom |

2/17/2013 12:09:17 PM #

now he's sure to remain a starter.

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 7:23:32 PM #

+1

2/17/2013 12:10:18 PM #

Simon in WBC for the DR. This is only good news if he's taking Cueto's spot.

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 12:30:27 PM #

Speaking of guys better than Fay, besides Twitter and the City Beat column is CTR working anywhere?

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 1:57:10 PM #

CTR writes for CBS Sports. So much better than Fay it is no contest. Like I said--you can tell when someone actually likes baseball and has a passion to write about it.

Hebron Reds Fan |

2/17/2013 10:40:16 PM #

He was at CBS but I haven't seen any content in forever.

Champ Summers |

2/17/2013 1:57:36 PM #

Now this would be comical:

www.mlbtraderumors.com/cincinnati_reds/index.html

2/17/2013 2:34:09 PM #

A nice history of the Reds on MLB Network right now. Up to the 60s already!

2/17/2013 3:38:31 PM #

I caught the last half-hour. Thanks for the heads up!

Statmom |

2/17/2013 6:20:48 PM #

BTA,

Those are some really nice Walleyes! You got reason to be excited.

I have never fished any of the Great Lakes for Walleye, but I do know Erie has a great reputation. We generally fish much smaller lakes, use a rented 16 foot semi-V type aluminum boat. Most of our trips are in August, so we miss the big spawns, runs, etc., therefore missing the huge females at the height of their weights, but, we also miss most of the mosquitoes and black flies! Trust me, that is well worth missing once you get far enough north.

Most of walleyes fall into the 2-5 lb. range, with the occasional 4-6. Biggest we have caught is a 9 lb. kamikaze rascal! We don't use any guides, just enjoy looking for them ourselves ( which can be done on smaller lakes, not Lake Erie, of course, etc., ), as being alone ( almost ) is half of the fun for us when we go. The main lake we fish is about 25-26 miles long, in a "Y" shape, each fork going about the same distance. The lake goes from about 3 miles across down to 10 feet across, and has multiple small lakes surrounding it, most a short portage from the main lake through the mountains.

Good Lord willing, this year will be my 26th trip up there. Love the seclusion.

Anyway, I truly love fishing, especially for walleye and smallmouth bass.

.genewv |

2/17/2013 9:52:33 PM #

I love catching smallies, but the best we get around here are what we can pull out of some creeks and the Licking river. I've never caught any that were really nice, but a friend of mine caught a 4 pounder out of local creek. We did catch some nice ones in Canada about 13 years ago.

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 2:16:26 AM #

Four pounds is a nice fish for this area. I usually walk the local streams or use a kayak to get to those hard to reach places. I've never fished the Licking but it is certainly on my bucket list.
If you ever make it to the Maysville area, cross the river and try some of the Ohio streams in Adams and Brown counties. I've taken 4+ pound Smallies out of Brush Creek, Big Three Mile, and Straight Creek. Still searching for that 5 pounder though.

2/18/2013 10:16:53 AM #

I plan on getting a kayak and outfitting it for fishing this spring. I've found a lot of ideas online and watched YouTube videos to get some ideas, so I plan on hitting south fork of the licking this year. I'll have to try the creeks you mentioned too.

There's a nice creek in Pendleton county in the spring called Grassy Creek. A friend of mine took me there a couple times and we caught some nice smallies, crappie, and sauger.

btalbert25 |

2/17/2013 8:50:21 PM #

Champ, I'm totally with you and Hebron on Fay. Those roster predictions are terrible. It's like he just pulls it out of his behind. Manny Parra, really? That's not a bad signing for depth purposes, but I sure hope Parra doesn't make this roster. For my money, I agree that Hoover is in there. I believe Hoover may be the best guy in the entire bullpen sans Chapman.

2/17/2013 8:54:43 PM #

Actually, I think Parra WILL be on the roster. Dusty lost Chapman and Bray from last year's roster and he likes having more than one lefty.

I hope Hoover makes it and Arredondo doesn't.

2/18/2013 9:49:54 AM #

Not to bad a deal for young Reds fans:

cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/.../redsheads.jsp

2/18/2013 9:50:51 AM #

BJ - I bet that butt-whupping Saturday felt pretty good for Vols fans.

Baseball can't seem to get here fast enough now.

2/18/2013 10:09:41 AM #

Phillips talks about not winning the gold glove last year:

cincinnati.com/.../

2/18/2013 10:21:38 AM #

He's probably right, but I'd take 1 Brandon Phillips over 10 Darwin Varneys. BP is great and I'm and the rest of baseball can suck it lol.

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 10:27:30 AM #

I tend to agree also. I believe I actually said something to the effect that BP cost himself the GG because he tends to piss off too many people. IMO, he's far away the best defensive 2nd baseman in the game. Glad to have him on my team.

2/18/2013 10:36:08 AM #

I'll go so far as to say that BP is the best defensive player I've ever watched regularly, at any position.

2/18/2013 10:57:41 AM #

He's the best 2nd baseman in my lifetime. He makes catches almost on a nightly basis that no other second baseman in the league can make.

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 12:52:57 PM #

Bob, BTA,

4 lb smallies from local, mostly small rivers are definitely nice fish. Anything 2 lbs and up in small streams are nice, really nice. Matter of fact, I have one on my wall in my office right above my computer, 4lbs, that came out of the Guyandotte River right here in Wyoming County--the only one I have ever taken from the stream, and I have caught a lot. I caught him/her 3 times in less than three hours, finally decided this was a kamikaze bass, someone was going to be taking it home, might as well be me, so, I put it on the wall. I have one 5 lb smallie from Canada, but never have kept another smallmouth since catching those 2. I love their heart, throw them all back.

We used to have a floating/canoeing club that spent a lot of time on different rivers, 2 to 3 day trips. Lots of fun. We fished the New River, Greenbrier, South Branch of the Potomac, James, Guyandotte, Ca-capon, Shenandoah, etc. Very memorable times indeed.

.genewv |

2/18/2013 12:55:10 PM #

Just popping in for a bit to comment...

Fishing...the best place for Walleye on Lake Erie is 1/2 mile off the shore as close to the power plant as possible-you can see the old nuke cooling towers.  There are US Army bouys out there as well because the National Guard has an artillery impact area near there.  It took us 25 minutes from Put-In-Bay and we floated Erie Dearies with leaches.  My first fish was 12 pounds.  My buddy with the boat hauled in a 21 pounder.  We kept our catch in a live well for about two hours and then released all but 2 arond 15 lbs.  We moved out to deeper water for trout and caught a few eaters and release some good-sized (18-25 lbs) ones.  I catch a ton of 3 pound smallies in Maine on 6lb test on a light rod n reel.  The only place I've hooked into a large smallmouth (?) is in Idaho.  The Fox Run River has its share of beautiful rainbow and brook trout, but the smallies out there are around 7-8 pounds.  Real tough catches in a fast river and lighter tackle (I don't fly fish).  The deeper pools of the Little Miami have some 5-6 pounders, but you have to get up closer to Xenia for that.

John Fay...the Enquirer released the wrong guy.  CTR was a much better beat reporter for the Post and I do believe he was given a cup of coffee or two at the Enquirer.

I don't care who doesn't like BP's attitude, that shouldn't sway their opinion about his talent.  He is an amazing 2nd baseman.

I am so ready for baseball to get here.

Jabberwocky |

2/18/2013 2:44:01 PM #

We put in in Port Clinton but you could see the power plant where we were. There was a green buoy in the water near where we were. By buddy whose boat we were on went back up a few weeks later and they were quite a ways away from there slaying them. He has the benefit of knowing people who pretty much live on that lake and aren't A-holes about sharing their info on where the fish are really biting. It was nice to be on the fish. A 21 pound Walleye, is a once in a lifetime kind of catch for sure. That's awesome!

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 12:57:54 PM #

Oh...and it looks like I'll need to change my avatar, seeing Stubby no longer plays here.

Jabberwocky |

2/18/2013 12:58:24 PM #

Not that that is a bad thing. Bring on Big League Choo!

Jabberwocky |

2/18/2013 1:42:21 PM #

I don't think Champ Summers plays for the Reds anymore either

2/18/2013 1:59:04 PM #

Mr Summers doesn't play anywhere anymore so maybe that could be the distinction. BTW it seemed anytime ole Stubby went over the wall to get one he came back with nothing.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 1:43:29 PM #

Hal McCoy comes through with another good article, this time on Johnny Cueto

HalMcCoy_Reds ‏@HalMcCoy_Reds

Cueto: a pitcher of many facets http://dlvr.it/2ynYsp

2/18/2013 2:06:32 PM #

The Parra, Hoover, Ondrusek, Arredondo battle for the final spot will be impacted by the Chapman situation.

If Chapman starts in the pen on a fairly regular schedule with Mike Leake in the rotation than Parra is in AAA. There are some guys on the cusp of breaking into the bigs that could push Simon off the roster. Remember he is out of options and could be dealt if he's not consistent enough. He won't be needed of they can use the 3 or 4 young arms at AAA. The options give Walt flexibility.

The Pen will be the biggest area for competition and if you look at the 40 man there are lot of guys looking for spots.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 2:19:21 PM #

This does seem like the place to see CTR's work. Seem incognito. You would think he would tweet a link to stuff he generates at City Beat.

Doesn't look as if he's doing anything regular for CBS. The eye on baseball stuff is all by different writers and his resume says CBS sports 2010-2013 not to present.

www.citybeat.com/.../search.engine.php

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 2:32:06 PM #

The two guys that are out of options - Arredondo and Simon - would be at the bottom of my bullpen list. That makes things tough.

Parra should make it - you need a LOOGY if Marshall is your eighth inning guy. Add in the fact that he's making more money for 2013 than Ondrusek is making for 2013-14, and he's a lock, like it or not.

If it's me, I'd try to make a trade. Let Arredondo or Simon bring something back. If you go with Broxton, Marshall, Parra, Ondrusek, LeCure, Hoover, and Leake in the pen, you could trade both of them and still have Hensley at AAA.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/18/2013 3:13:33 PM #

You still think chapman will be a starter in April? I don't. They will find a way to use him out of the pen until May or June without logging too many innings.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 4:00:16 PM #

The Pen would only be to hide chapman until they decide to start him. He would be in a longer role but that would still put 2 lefties in the pen. That how I see a scenario where Parra has no spot on the roster to begin the season.

What ever the plan Price and Jocketty have for Chapman, its going to affect the whole make up of the pitching staff. If the plan is to middle relief him until they are ready to let him start can you trust dusty to manage it correctly?

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 3:20:39 PM #

Champ, if Chapman goes to the pen, then he'd take the spot of Leake, right? Then the bullpen construction would be basically the same - just replace Leake with Chapman.

Honestly, my vote is with that anyway. I think Leake can bounce back, and our best 2013 has Chapman in the pen. But the Reds obviously think he's a starter most or all of this year.

Ashlandateam2 |

2/18/2013 4:00:30 PM #

The Pen would only be to hide chapman until they decide to start him. He would be in a longer role but that would still put 2 lefties in the pen. That how I see a scenario where Parra has no spot on the roster to begin the season.

What ever the plan Price and Jocketty have for Chapman, its going to affect the whole make up of the pitching staff. If the plan is to middle relief him until they are ready to let him start can you trust dusty to manage it correctly?

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 4:11:12 PM #

Here is a thought. I was talking this over with my brother in law who is a former gator infielder and Braves fan. Medlen was treated like he was because of TJ surgery. He doesn't like that for Chapman.

He thinks as the 5th starter in the spring he can miss a few starts because of the schedule. During his scheduled starts they can treat them as if they are spring training starts and have the long man ready no matter how well he is doing.

Early in April and may he can go just 4 and let Leake go 3 plus. Leake could then prepare as if it were a start. Thats how the 5th and 6th starters do it in the spring anyhow.

Maybe Leake would be more effective if he could prepare like it was a start. He'd be more likely to see rt hand hitting offenses as well or at least more balanced ones.

But who the F are we. This is the crap you come up with over beer in a wing joint when there's no sports on worth watching.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 4:23:24 PM #

Makes sense to me. The best ideas are hatched over beer and wings.

2/18/2013 5:46:13 PM #

You think Dusty, Price and Jocketty do it any differently? Well, maybe not as much beer, but...

I actually like that idea. It strengthens two arms at the same time, but saves innings. Dusty may not like that many bullpen arms, though.

Jabberwocky |

2/18/2013 5:57:20 PM #

In this case Leake essentially takes up the spot used by Simon. Simon seemed to go weeks without use. If our pitching is as effective things shouldn't change.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 4:29:37 PM #

so this was interesting

Mr. R ‏@MisterRedlegs

Cincinnati Enquirer is hiring No. 2 #Reds beat writer. I got 3-2 odds on @ctrent, who would put together the old (blog) gang like Joe Gibbs.

The old gang is together except you.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 5:34:33 PM #

Also Tony Campana to the D-Bags

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 5:45:21 PM #

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

RT @Harm0311 AZ got Tony Campana, have talked to Walt any about if he looked into bringing him in?//Forgot to ask.

Man I hope Fay isn't serious. Such elite preparation on his part.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 6:11:39 PM #

I'll be honest. I always really liked CTrent's writing and his blog, but I'll tell you, I'd rather be here discussing then to buy into his blog again. I know he couldn't control a lot of it with layoffs and what not, and I don't begrudge him for leaving CNATI, I guy has to eat and pay his bills, but I really like the community and the stability we have here. It's really awesome of Redfaced to have provided the space, and folks like Mary and Amy, and anyone else I'm missing to take the time to post the starters on game days and add pics and stuff like that.

I really am happy to have found this blog and I've really made some friends here, both that I've met and gone to a game with and those I have yet to meet.

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 6:41:44 PM #

+Eleventy gazillion!

Jabberwocky |

2/18/2013 7:15:38 PM #

I guess you have to remember a core group followed CTR from the Post including Mr Redlegs. I find it interesting to see what he's up to. His content was always better than Fay. As long as he reports on Cincy Sports I'll probably still be interested in what he's going.

We've lost a number of contributors along the way and others visit a lot less frequently but to me this is a daily must read. As a guy who travels for a living this can be home away from home.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 7:49:13 PM #

Amen to everything in this thread.

2/18/2013 9:06:42 PM #

I'll second that

2/18/2013 9:08:27 PM #

I hope Trent lands the Enquirer gig simply because it means we get better quality coverage of the Reds. I don't foresee that changing anything about RO or what we do here. You guys are family.

2/18/2013 9:42:45 PM #

I didn't realize that Ctrent was done at CBS. That stinks. He has certainly had some bad luck on the job front the last few years. Would LOVE to see him at the Enquirer. I might actually consider reading content from the Enquirer again. That said--this is still my number one stop. I might have to stop being a slough this year and stop just lurking and actually contribute a starter once in awhile.

Hebron Reds Fan |

2/18/2013 9:55:18 PM #

We'll need it because we've seen fewer and fewer people contributing. It can be taxing tring to keep the starters going.

Usually the hibernators come out of the woodwork with the mention of pitchers and catchers. Not so much this year. It's been a long time since we've heard from RPA, Soccer or Griz. That's a lot of contribution to replace.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 8:21:34 PM #

Who is this guy?

I keep getting Hal McCoy tweets and its a link to some other numbnuts.

www.daytondailynews.com/.../

that was the most worthless piece of crap i've ever read. I spend more time on my post than that guy did on that blurb. It not 2010 anymore.

Champ Summers |

2/18/2013 8:31:01 PM #

I think the Dayton Daily News abuses the Hal McCoy twitter feed by posting anything from their publication on the Reds from that account. I'm pretty confident that Hal himself does not do even his own tweets.

2/18/2013 8:37:10 PM #

i doubt it too but they could at least tweet only his stuff under his name.

Champ Summers |

2/19/2013 11:40:18 AM #

ctrent ‏@ctrent

just checked out @LouisvilleBats promo sked — i’ve got to get down for the @Corky_Miller bobblehead night on April 6 http://www.milb.com/promotions/index.jsp?sid=t416 …

They could have a Corky Miller bobblehead night at GABP and it would be a draw,even if Corky is not on the roster

2/18/2013 11:05:04 PM #

I'm definitely not saying I don't like CTR's writing or don't want him to be writing for the Enquirer. He's far better than Fay and would actually give us some good quality material. I'm just simply stating that I hope this group doesn't all leave for a new blog if he starts one. I like the community here and didn't neccessarily love it when it was at CNATI, at least when it was there and CTrent was there. Perhaps that's because those who actually did cause some drama took off though.

btalbert25 |

2/18/2013 11:24:47 PM #

I'm not going anywhere. Got way tired of moving.

2/18/2013 11:23:38 PM #

This crew isn't leaving to go anywhere.

Champ Summers |

2/19/2013 8:25:41 AM #

Maybe CTR should join us here?

2/19/2013 9:14:35 AM #

Though i don't say much , I have been part of this group from way back when. That being said I am too old and too set in my ways to want to find another blog site to follow....so Thanks to all of you who contribute and provide some really good entertainment....this is a major part of my daily reading.

ohioredsfan1 |

2/19/2013 9:22:26 AM #

Usually the hibernators come out of the woodwork with the mention of pitchers and catchers.

I resemble that remark! Sorry, I love football and golf, too. I hibernate in my basement with my Opti Shot...splitting my screen so I can watch football while playing Kapalua.

Jabberwocky |

2/19/2013 3:21:42 PM #

I thought hibernation was a year around event............

ohioredsfan1 |

2/19/2013 11:41:04 AM #

from rj:

ctrent ‏@ctrent

just checked out @LouisvilleBats promo sked — i’ve got to get down for the @Corky_Miller bobblehead night on April 6 http://www.milb.com/promotions/index.jsp?sid=t416 …

They could have a Corky Miller bobblehead night at GABP and it would be a draw,even if Corky is not on the roster

2/19/2013 11:42:47 AM #

John Fay ‏@johnfayman

Votto still has decided on the WBC. Rosters are due tomorrow. #reds #cincienquirer

perfectly Fay comment

2/19/2013 2:24:22 PM #

New thread is up. This was is freaking huge and I didn't know what to do about Spring Training previews or whatever, so I just put something up.

4/8/2013 12:27:31 AM #

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4/8/2013 2:17:45 AM #

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