2.28.11 BY:MSR
MEMORIES
ROBINSON REMINISCES My earliest
memories of The Cincinnati Reds involve the following: I had a plastic
replica batting helmet (the type Pete Rose always wore without an ear flap
protector). I personalized it by writing in pencil my favorite Red's jersey
number on the underside bill of the helmet. The number was 41, Tom Seaver. I
remember wearing that helmet all the time, especially when I was at bat in
the back yard awaiting a tennis ball thrown underhand towards a make shift
plate by my Dad. This must have been 1981 or 1982. I was six or seven years
old. Pete Rose had already left for Philadelphia and to be quite honest, I
don't actually remember him in a Reds uniform until he came back during the
1984 season. Anyway, so Tom Seaver was my favorite Red at the time of that
replica batting helmet but he left soon after because I remember erasing
that #41 and replacing it with the #36. I remember circling that number
several times to empower its permanence. The number 36 belonged to Mario
Soto, the star pitcher of the Cincinnati Reds during a dismal period of Reds
baseball in the early eighties. I wish I still had that old plastic batting
helmet because I must have written about ten different favorite players'
numbers under the brim of that lid.
My earliest memories of the Reds were not during a glorious time for the
ball club. I idolized a team that adults at the time couldn't stand or
tolerate because they had been so used to winning. Pete Rose was a Philly.
Tony Perez an Expo. Griffey was a Yankee. Sparky was a Tiger. All the glory
had gone and Dick Wagner didn't leave much behind. Let’s face it, the
Cincinnati Reds had little success in the early eighties. I didn't know any
better. I thought Paul Householder and Duane Walker were fabulous
outfielders. Little did I know that they couldn't compare to Foster and
Geronimo. Though they lost a lot of games, I worshipped my Reds. Eddie
Milner was so fast and so was Gary Redus. Ron Oester was a slick fielding
2nd baseman with a good bat but I wasn't comparing him to Joe Morgan because
I never saw Morgan play. I thought Nick Esasky and "Sleepy" Dan Driessan
were swell first basemen but I had no idea how much Tony Perez contributed
to "The Big Red Machine." Davey Concepcion and Johnny Bench were at the end
of their respective careers but I didn't realize they weren't what they used
to be. I had no idea. I do remember Bench trying to play third or first base
and not doing so well at it. Then an upswing for the organization seemed to
occur. Two home town players returned to build a new team to be proud of.
It all started with "The Cobra" coming to Cincinnati, Dave Parker. A
devastating hitter for the Pittsburg Pirates came to Cincinnati where he
grew up. I remember he had to shave his beard and take out his ear ring was
a big deal. I think I was nine or ten years old. Number 39 was now written
inside that batting helmet. Parker was an instant success in a Reds uniform,
especially at the plate. I was a left-handed batter as well as Parker and I
remember mimicking his ferocious swing. I was not permitted to mimic his
outfield play. He was a little too flashy and hot dog in the field. He would
like slap his mitt towards a fly ball and it didn't always work out so well,
but he had a rifle for an arm. He was a right fielder. What a cannon. No
base-runner attempted to take third with the ball in Parker's secure hand
ready to be unloaded. Dave Parker will remain one of my favorite players of
all time. Later in 1984 another home town hero returned with a much bigger
impact and I became forever fascinated with his style of play through pure
determination.
I remember having two huge posters on my wall about this time. I was only
allowed to have two but they were enormous to me. The kind of posters with
the white border and an action shot picture framed within. On the top left
of the pictures were the names of these sport legends; Ken Anderson and Pete
Rose. I was enthralled that both these heroes donned the same jersey number
14. So much so that later in High School baseball I chose the number 28
because I wanted to exude twice as much effort as my baseball hero
exemplified on the diamond. A good idea, but a very difficult goal to
attain. Anyway, I become completely dedicated to the Reds, even more so than
ever before. Pete Rose, a former Red and local legend, came back to the city
I adored. He came back as a player/manager to bring his brand of "hustle"
back to the Queen City. He had a tremendous, immediate impact and would go
on to become a living legend as "The Hit KIng."
2.27.11 BY:MSR NUMBERS
IT IS ALWAYS ABOUT
NUMBERS I am
going to go with a numbers number. Some will disagree with my choices but
that is the beauty of it. From number 1 through 55; the following are my
favorite REDS by their numbers they wore. I only went to 55 because
excluding 61; too difficult to recollect 56 through 60. Believe me, I know
"Sidearm" Scotty Sullivan wore 56. Try going 57 through 60 ( Jordan Smith.)
1.) Fred Hutchinson. Manager. Number retired in 1965
2.) Gary Redus. Outfield. The prequel to Eric Davis. Power and speed. Early
1980's
3.) Pokey Reese. 2B/SS.
4.) Brandon Phillips. 2B
5.) Johnny Bench
6.) Drew Stubbs. CF
7.) Kevin Mitchell. LF
8.) Joe Morgan. 2B. Number retired in 1998.
9.) Joe Oliver. C.
10.) Sparkey Anderson. Manager. Number retired in 2005.
11.) Barry Larkin.
12.) Billy Bates. Pinch hitter most famously in1990 game 2 World Series.
13.) Davey Concepcion. SS. Number retired in 2007.
14.) Pete Rose. 2B/RF/LF/3B/1B/player manager. 4256
15.) George Foster. LF.
16.) Ron Oester. 2B
17.) Chris Sabo. 3B
18.) Ted Kluszewski. 1B. Number retired in 1988.
19.) Joey Votto. 1B
20.) Frank Robinson. OF. Number retired in 1998.
21.) Sean Casey. 1B
22..) Billy Hatcher. OF.
23.) Greg Vaughn. OF
24.) Tony Perez. 1B
25.) Dmitri Young. 1B/OF
26.) Duane Walker. OF. Made an amazing catch against the wall at Riverfront.
1980's.
27.) Jose Rijo. RHP.
28.) Kalvoski Daniels. LF.
29.) Herm Winningham. OF
30.) Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. OF
31.) John Franco. LHP.
32.) Jay Bruce. RF
33.) Ron Robinson. RHP
34.) Homer Bailey. RHP.
35.) Don Gullet. LHP.
36.) Rolando Roomes. OF
37.) Norm Charlton. LHP.
38.) Pete Harnisch. RHP.
39.) Dave Parker. RF
40.) Nick Masset. RHP.
41.) Joe Nuxall. RHP
42.) Rick Mahler. RHP
43.) Tim Layana. RHP.
44.) Eric Davis. OF. "44 Magnum"
45.) Jeff Brantley. RHP.
46.) Rob Murphy. LHP.
47.) Johnny Cueto. RHP.
48.) Ted Power. RHP.
49.) Rob Dibble. RHP.
50.) Russ Springer. RHP
51.) Mike LaCoss. RHP
52.) Daniel Ray Herrera. LHP
53.) Arthur Rhodes. LHP. We'll miss ya this year!
54.) Aroldis Chapman. LHP.
55.) Ramon Hernandez. C
Numbers 12, 21, and 28 were difficult decisions for me. Number 50 was a
stretch. Comments are welcome. Read and discuss. Robinson says, You gotta
know this." I would like for the REDS to leave the names of the players off
their home jerseys. It would add to people paying more attention to the
numbers. It is always about the numbers...it is Baseball.
2.13.11
BY:MSR THE BENCH
RIDING THE PINE IN 2011
Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images North America
With spring training right around the corner this
year's preview of our beloved Reds is almost complete. Bringing up the rear
is the segment devoted to the back up players. The bench jockeys. The
players who provide the baseball chatter and the high fives. The role
players. A group of guys that provide the depth that every ball club needs.
They do more than spit sunflower seed shells. They chew lots of gum and
tobacco as well as play their fair share of pranks on one another.
Seriously, this group is the glue that holds a team together from April
through September. Providing a veteran player with a much needed day off.
Like a day game after a night game for example. A bench player will also
provide a lift to the ball club by giving a slumping starter some time off
to figure things out. Double switches in the late innings, platoon
situations that may rise up and playing a 162 game schedule there will be
injuries that occur. These guys have to stay prepared and ready to play at
any time. As for Opening Day, they will be riding the pine. Cheering on
their mates from the dugout, spitting seed shells and providing the chatter
I adore. Here are Dusty's bench mates of 2011.
With a 25 man active roster, Dusty Baker has limited positions available for
his bench. He has 8 starting position players, a 5 man starting pitching
rotation, and 7 relievers in the bullpen. That leaves just enough room for a
5 player bench. Depending on the schedule these positions can be juggled a
bit but for the sake of this segment, we are going into Opening Day with 5
players on the pine. Dusty will have a back up catcher, 2 back up
outfielders, and 2 back up infielders. These important jobs will be won in
spring training. Here are the projected 5 in order of importance and value.
Ryan Hanigan #29: Back up catcher. Bronson's battery mate. Had a tremendous
season at the plate last year. Handles the pitching staff well. In a platoon
role sharing the starting duties with Ramon Hernandez. The 2010 Reds had
great contributions from their catchers. Hanigan and Hernandez combined
batting line...516 AB...55 Runs scored...154 Hits...29 2B...12 HR...88
RBI....298 AVG...This could be an even better year if they both remain
healthy.
Miguel Cairo #43: Back up infielder. Can back up Scott Rolen at third. Can
back up Joey Votto at first. Did both admirably well last year. This solid
right handed bat provided big base hits last year batting .290. The 37 year
old also provided a big leadership role by teaching the younger guys what it
is all about to be a big leaguer. My "Bench Captain."
Edgar Renteria #16: Back up SS/infielder. Signed as a free agent to back up
first time starter Paul Janish. This 35 year old brings a very impressive
resume to Cincinnati. Two World Series rings as well as a World Series MVP
from last year. Though plagued by injuries in 2010 he managed to bat .276 in
72 games played with only 243 at bats. The career .287 hitter managed to get
healthy enough to bat .286 in last year's post season. Saving his best for
last, Edgar batted .412 in World Series play, including 2 key home runs with
6 runs batted in. I wouldn't mind if he provided the same spark in this
upcoming post season.
Fred Lewis #15: Back up outfielder. Signed as a free agent. Left handed bat
with some speed on base paths. Career .272 hitter who strikes out
occasionally. Last year, as a Toronto Blue Jay, batted .262 in 110 games
played. In 428 at bats had an on base percentage of .332 with 70 runs
scored. A little pop in his bat, had 8 HR and 36 RBI in 2010. Stole 17 bases
in 23 attempts. Primarily a back up to the streaky Johnny Gomes in left
field this season. A late inning defensive replacement. Pinch runner when a
speedier runner needed. Could bat some lead off if needed as well.
Chris Heisey #28: Back up outfielder. Right handed bat had some pop off the
bench as a pinch hitter. Had 4 homers and 6 runs batted in as a pinch hitter
in 2010. Over all batted .254 last year with 8 bombs and 21 ribbies. Also
scored an impressive 33 runs in limited playing time. Can play all three
outfield positions well. The former 17th round draft pick from
Mechanicsburg, PA now has the experience from last year to provide an even
bigger role this year.
Those are my five back ups headed into 2011. A lot can change based on
performances in spring training. Other candidates for bench players include
the following...
Juan Francisco #64: Back up 3B. Left handed pop but strikes out a lot.
Yonder Alonso #23: Back up 1B. Young left handed bat. Former 1st rounder.
Possible trade bait.
Chris Valaika #3: Back up 2b. Batted .263 in 19 games last year. Saw him hit
a homer at GABP.
Todd Frazier #70. Back up OF. Big right handed prospect could come north if
Heisey stumbles.
Corky Miller #37. Back up C. Could play if injuries to starters. Two
prospects nipping at his heels.
Jeremy Hermida #39. Back up OF. 27 year old left handed bat. Once a prospect
in Marlin organization. He is my sleeper pick to make the ball club. Once a
highly regarded prospect, has stumbled as of late. In 2007 had 32 doubles,
18 homers, 63 ribbies with a .296 avg as a Marlin. In 2010 batted a poultry
.216 with Redsox in 52 games. Rebounded to bat .250 in his last 21 games as
an Oakland Athletic to finish 2010. Provided he plays well in Arizona this
spring, could see some playing time in Cincinnati because of his valuable
left handed bat. Plus he is wearing "The Cobra's" number 39. Speaking of
numbers, I hope you enjoy my next WhackReds segment. My favorite Reds by
their jersey numbers; 1 through 55.
ROBINSON
FINISHES HIS 2011 PREVIEW WITH A LOOK AT DUSTY'S PALS
2.8.11 BY:MSR THE BULLPEN
ROBINSON CONTINUES HIS
2011 PREVIEW WITH A LOOK AT DUSTY'S PALS If there is
any team in the major leagues with a realistic hope of making the playoffs
they have to have a good bullpen. Pitching and defense wins. A great bullpen
will win a World Series. That is a fact. All the recent champions have had
not just a great closer but a great core of relief pitchers to set up that
closer. Situational lefties, long inning relievers, and set up men. I look
at The Cincinnati Reds and I think they not only have a great bullpen but an
excellent one.
The game has changed over the years. Less
complete games and more new terms like "holds" and "saves" dominate our era.
The legendary Sparky Anderson was known as "Captain Hook" for his relentless
and innovative dedication of pulling a pitcher for a better situational
reliever out of the bullpen. The term "bull-pen" was used as early as the
1877 season in which The Cincinnati Enquirer used the name to designate the
area in foul territory that was roped off for late arriving fans who were
herded like bulls. The Reds of Cincinnati have a few bulls of their own that
will greatly impact the season of 2011.
Through the trials and tribulations of spring
training Dusty Baker must make the cuts to determine his active roster of
twenty-five ball players. He may decide on 13 pitchers and 12 position
players or he may go 12 pitchers and 13 position players. It all kind of
depends on the health of his team at the time. Does he want to have two
catchers or three and so on. For the sake of this article I, as fantasy
manager, will go with 13 position players and 12 pitchers. With the
customary five starting pitchers, I am left with seven relievers. The
following are my Bullpen roster spots and goals. I will begin with my
ending, the closer, and go reverse to my early arms out of Dust’s' pen pals.
CLOSER
Francisco Cordero RHP: 2.48 ERA, 44 saves: Lofty goals that can be achieved
by a veteran closer in the last year of his contract. He had a sub par
season last year and has to improve those numbers for The Reds to have a
chance of a title. He fell behind in the count last year which led to some
walks and short finger nails for Red fans. With the loss of Arthur Rhodes to
free agency, Cordero is now the veteran leader of a very talented bunch of
Reds. Though he is the end of the line as far as a closer, he is the
beginning of this bullpens' success.
SET UPAroldis Chapman LHP: 2.25 ERA, 7 saves: Throw fire and breathe the same.
Scare the hell out of our opposition with the blazing fastball. "The Cuban
Missile" is the only reason we parted ways with the veteran lefty "Sir
Arthur." When I saw him come out of the pen last year it was electric. It
gave me goose bumps because he is our future. It helps that he can unleash a
fastball clocked at 105 mph at any time. If he can further enhance his grasp
of his ferocious arsenal the opposing batters need not worry about even
stepping in the batter's box. Don't even dig in because it could be a heater
or a 90+ change up or a slider that could break your knees. Expect way more
strike outs that innings pitched. Future Cy Young!
SET UPNick Masset RHP: 2.65 ERA, 8 saves: Another flame thrower just not as
extreme as the above. Had a horrible beginning last year but excelled down
the stretch and ended up being almost un-hittable. Has to gain control of
stuff but his slider is devastating. Our future closer depending on
Chapman's destination. His experience gained from last year plus a good
start will determine his excellence. A power arm. More knowledge of how and
when to throw strikes will determine his future role.
SET UP/SITUATIONALLogan Ondrusek RHP: 3.00 ERA, A couple of saves: Whether this six foot,
eight inch righty is dominating or not depends what he does this year. Could
also develop into a closer but needs to develop another pitch to his arsenal
first. 90+mph fastball and a slider but not much control. Intimidating
factor on the mound but needs to throw more strikes. Will be brought into
games earlier so he is the cornerstone of what this bullpen is to become.
Can probably play hoops.
SITUATIONALBill Bray LHP: 3.65 ERA, 6-2 record: The classic crafty lefthander every
bullpen needs to get that other lefthander out. Not a lot of innings but
hopefully a lot of key outs. Good stuff just not dominating. Throws strikes
but also long balls. I like the high stirrups though.
LONG MANSam LeCure RHP: 4.00 ERA, 7-4 record: You bring this guy in early when the
starter has had a bad outing. Can give innings. Spot started well last year.
Has a lot of heart but not a lot of stuff.
LONG MANJordan Smith RHP: 4.35 ERA, 6-5 record: A younger version of the above. Did
show signs of possible starter last year. Possible starter next year.
WILDCARDDontrelle Willis LHP: Former all-star as
a Florida Marlin has to make the team in spring training.
WILDCARDJose Arredondo RHP: Recovering from "Tommy John" surgery
but has bigger upside than LeCure, Smith, and Willis. Spring training will
tell a lot about this pitcher's future but needs to be considered in this
mix of a very deep and talented bullpen.
The key back up position players next in this Robinson says, "You
gotta know this" segment...........4256
(Sorry about the
screwed up format. We are currently working on upgrading Robinson from
Notepad and are trying to get him to stop using the tab key.)
ROBINSON'S OUTLOOK ON THE REDS' 2011 STARTING CINCO
1.26.11 BY:MSR THE PITCHING STAFF
ROBINSON'S OUTLOOK ON THE REDS' 2011 STARTING CINCO
(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images North
America)
It’s a freezing eight
degrees outside. The Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team has been losing as
of late. The very tired Cincinnati Bengals are obviously not participating
this championship Sunday. So what is a Cincinnatian sport enthusiast like me
to do? Start thinking about the best sport to ever be played...our American
pastime, BASEBALL. Since I have already gone over the starting lineup goals
it seems logical to dig into the ole’ pitching mound and go over our very
talented and deep staff of hurlers.
Robinson says, "You Gotta Know This..." Field manager Dusty Baker has a
perplexing problem coming up in spring training 2011. The other 31 managers
in the Major Leagues would love to have such a dilemma, though I believe the
Phillies are excluded from that group. Dusty has to build a five man
starting rotation. The problem and difficulty comes with the fact that he
has too many candidates for those positions. The Cincinnati Reds are deep
with several qualified starting pitchers. With five chambers, Dusty has
eight to nine bullets available. This will all be worked out based on the
performances from spring training but I would like to speculate. Just
another cool factor that comes with being a baseball fan, we get to
speculate based on the question of "what if" and potential.
It is obvious that Bronson Arroyo is this staff's unquestionable leader. The
reliable righty has earned that title from his consistant durable seasons in
the past. Is he the ace of the staff? Does he have the best "stuff" of the
staff? Are you gonna give him the ball to pitch in the first game of a five
game playoff series? Probably not. At least I hope not. He deserves to pitch
OPENING DAY but I would feel hesitant to give him the ball in a one game
playoff. Aroldis Chapman has the blazing stuff to warrant him as our ace but
ownership has decided to relegate him as a reliever. I predict he will
become the first Red to win a Cy Young award, just not this year. So where
does that leave us? Let me attempt to build a rotation with some loft to aim
at.
The Starting Rotation beginning OPENING DAY:
1. Bronson Arroyo RHP: 16-10 record with a 4.45 ERA, 200+ innings
pitched, 34 starts, a couple complete games with a shutout sprinkled in
there. His season is the easiest to predict; another ho-hum, outstandingly
typical consistent season. From here on it gets a little dicey with a lot of
wishful and hopeful thinking...
2. Edinson Volquez RHP: 15-8 record with a 3.90 ERA. 190 innings
pitched with 190 strike outs during 30 starts. How about posting 20 quality
starts and at least one shutout? The Reds need a bounce back year from this
one time all-star. Finding the strike zone and regaining his confidence are
very key components to his possible ace like arsenal. His fastball and
changeup could get the Reds to the postseason. Volquez of 2009 sorely needed
and required for this team's success. The Reds possible ace...
3. Travis Wood LHP: 14-9 record with a 4.15 ERA. 185 innings pitched
during 30 starts. Wood could develop into a Tom Browning clone with a better
bat. His first full season has a lot to prove toward his destination.
Possibly the best athlete on the team, among it’s fastest on base paths.
Valuable pinch runner. He is a gamer who could become a workhorse for this
staff in the future. Too early to expect those types of results. Good
pickoff move and works fast. Keeps the defense in the game. Doesn't possess
ace stuff but quality #3. Has a few shutouts in him and is a nice buffer
between Volquez and 24 million dollar man, Johnny Cueto.
4. Johnny Cueto RHP: 16-11 record with a sub 4.00 ERA. Close to 200
innings with about 190 strike outs during 34 starts. Earned a huge 3-year
deal based on the potential he has briefly displayed. Possibly the best
stuff on this staff. Cueto and Volquez are very similar. Needs to work on
mechanics and consistency. Could throw a no hitter this season. Weak bat and
a weak fielder but can improve. Fairly decent bunter and he wants to be a
winner. Big fan of Cueto just not sure if I am as confident in him as
ownership. He is my dark horse pick as an all-star this season.
5. Mike Leake RHP: 13-5 record with a 3.65 ERA. Around 155 strike
outs with close to 180 innings pitched during 25 starts. Reminds people of
the great Greg Maddux. Great athlete. Great glove and bat. Future Silver
Slugger award winner. Hustles on base paths and was a sponge last year,
absorbing how to be a big leaguer. Had a dominating first half but stumbled
late. A great back end of the rotation pitcher though he may need more
consistent reps to develop. The Reds' hopes do not hinge upon his success
because of depth but Mike Leake is an integral part for the future.
Other candidates:
Homer Bailey RHP: Make or break year for a big Texan arm. Top of the
rotation stuff but where is his head at? A great spring training will reveal
this 24-year olds’ future. Possible trade bait but would hate to part ways
with potential. Still young...
Matt Maloney LHP: Left handed arm adds value. Has displayed brief moments of
rotation worthy stuff. Another make or break season. Could be destined for
bullpen but a good change of pace spot starter.
Sam LeCure RHP: Filled in admirably last season in spot starts. In the mix
for 5th spot in rotation because he has guts. Decent stuff with a big heart
who comes at batters with what he has. Could end up in bullpen.
1.22.11 BY:MSR COLD, WET, AND
DREARY OUTSIDE. MR.
ROBINSON BREAKS DOWN THE REDS BATTING ORDER
(Photo:
Ryan R. Dlugosz/RRDphoto.com) It is
cold, wet, and dreary outside. Thus far, it seems to me that it has been a
very a frigid and miserable winter. At least football is there for us. The
NFL playoffs are getting the interest of sport networks. Rightfully so, it
is the final four of pro football with the Super Bowl looming. Speaking of
the "final four," we haven't even filled out our brackets yet for March
Madness. All of these bumps in the road we must endure as we longingly await
another magical baseball season. I already have baseball on the brain. I
actually think about the game every day of my life. Pitchers and catchers
will be showing up in spring training soon so it seems time to get into
discussions about our beloved REDS of Cincinnati.
I am tremendously optimistic about this upcoming baseball season and the
type of team representing The Cincinnati Reds of 2011. Since it is still the
dead of winter and lovely spring hasn't yet arrived; this is the time of
year that I enjoy projecting, or better still, predicting what type of
seasons our Reds will have. Baseball is a sport which revolves around
statistics. Predicting stats is a part of the off season. For example, for
The Reds to repeat as NL Central champions, Joey Votto has to improve on his
already impressive numbers of 2010. Another MVP type season is needed from
Mr. Votto for the Reds to mimic their previous year but he cannot do it
alone; every single player has to improve to contribute to achieve the
ultimate goal. Just think about this, WE ALL HAVE TO CONTRIBUTE for the REDS
to have a championship season. That is the goal and here is how we can do
it.
Let me start with the starting line up through the format of my batting
order...
GOALS:
1. Brandon Phillips 2B: .280 AVG, 16 HR, 57 RBI, 182 Hits, 108 Runs, 26 SB,
and .375 OBP. (Team comes first. Hustle at all times. Pay attention on the
bases. Another gold glove but not too flashy, make routine plays as well as
"web gems." Get on base. Listen to Dusty. You are a veteran now, play like
one. Be a mentor.)
2. Drew Stubbs CF: .275 AVG, 18 HR, 74 RBI, 160 Hits, 101 Runs, 34
SB, and .355 OBP. (Learn strike zone and figure out how to utilize the bunt.
Use your speed to an advantage. Must cut down strike outs. Baltimore chop.
Hit triples. Help cover ground in left center. Realize you may just be the
most important piece of this puzzle.)
3. Joey Votto 1B: .315 AVG, 36 HR, 125 RBI, 202 Hits, 100 Runs, 44 2B, .380
OBP, and .600 SLG. (Be a leader. Win your first gold glove. Stay healthy.
Play 155+ games. Continue to dominate in pressure situations. Put this team
on your shoulders. Swipe 10 bags. Sign extension before your new contract
expires in 2014.)
4. Scott Rolen 3B: .285 AVG, 25 HR, 106 RBI, 159 Hits, 80 Runs, 37 2B, and
145 Games. (Continue road to Hall of Fame. Another gold glove. Stay HEALTHY.
Keep clubhouse in order. Clutch hits and more clutch hits. They are going to
walk Votto to get to you. Rest appropriately. Stay aggressive but smart.)
5. Jay Bruce RF: .277 AVG, 41 HR, 101 RBI, 161 Hits, 91 Runs, 20 SB, .560
SLG, and 85 Walks. (Cut down strike outs. Hit to left field. Spray the ball.
Play like you did down the stretch of 2010. Learn how to hit in clutch
situations. Ask Rolen a question every day. Win gold glove. No more being
picked off first. Swipe bags. Develop into veteran. Don't let up and earn
your contract.)
6. Jonny Gomes LF: .260 AVG, 19 HR, 59 RBI, 150 Hits, 61 Runs, .475 SLG, 18
SB, and 60 Walks. (Continue to play with passion. Earn status as fan
favorite. Better fielding in left field. Patience at the plate. Study how
they pitch you. Adjust helmet. Finish strong. Realize your role. Strike outs
a concern.)
7. Ryan Hanigan C: .280 AVG, 11 HR, 45 RBI, 112 Hits, 19 2B, and 100 Games
(Continue to hit in the clutch. Earn starting position. Work with the staff.
Improve bunting. Cut down opposing base runners. Stay healthy. Less passed
balls.)
8. Paul Janish SS: .250 AVG, 5 HR, 41 RBI, 112 Hits, 22 2B, 112 Games, 10
SB, and .340 OBP. (This is your season to prove yourself as a starter. Slick
glove continues. Do everything in your power to stay in lineup because Edgar
Renteria wants to play. Bunt well. Take pitches. Hit your pitch to all
fields. Set the table for the turn of the batting order.
9. Rotation will be discussed at a later goal
format..............................
MOST IMPORTANTLY: The 10th MAN, all of us. The fans of this ball club have
got to show up at Great American Ball Park. Professional ball players like
to play their craft. They get millions of dollars to do so. They LOVE to
play this game with passion and hustle in front of a packed house. We have
got to express such passion through our attendance.
ROBINSON SAYS YOU GOTTA KNOW THIS; "In order for us to get to the playoffs
and succeed we have got to show more support for this team. Our attendance
is extremely vital. We as a collective group have to display our
appreciation for the Castellini's dedication to providing us a winning ball
club. Let us show how intelligent we are by supporting his efforts unlike
the lack of efforts our other owner has shown, Mike Brown. We don't want to
just compete, WE WANT A WINNER. Mr. Castellini clearly has shown his
dedication to giving us such a winner. Our goal is selling out that
ballpark. I went to just 11 games last year. My personal goal is to attend
twenty. Lets all go to the ball park more often and show our appreciation
for a potentially great ball club. The team can't improve without all of us
contributing so let us earn another postseason together. Can Great American
Ball Park become a magical place in 2011? I believe it can be. It will take
Drew Stubbs, Paul Janish, and all us to make it so. GO REDS!!!!" 4256 COMMENTS?
DJ HI-TEK IS AT IT AGAIN
12.9.10 BY:MEH IN THE RED DJ HI-TEK IS AT IT
AGAIN
Cincinnati native DJ Hi-Tek and New York's own
Talib Kweli are at it again with their latest release called In The Red.
As Kweli flawlessly flows atop Tek's simple but grinding rock relic,
memories of 2010's Cincinnati Championship season and anticipation for the
end of the off-season boil. This track is
available on Reflection Eternal's new album called Revolutions Per
Minute that is out now courtesy of Blacksmith Records.
12.3.10 BY:MEH WHAT HAPPENED?
NOVEMBER BRINGS AWARDS,
CONTRACTS, AND SORROW
(Photo:
NBC Sports)
We here at Whack Reds
would like to extend our obvious apologies for our recent lack of
information. After completing our rookie blogging season that unmistakably
plunged the Reds into victory after nine consecutive losing seasons, after
the fore mentioned absence due to shock after the Reds were swept by the
Philadelphia Phillies during the 2010 MLB Playoffs, and after spending some
time following Cincinnati's pathetic excuse for a professional football
team, we are beginning to focus back into our beloved 2010 NL Central
Champion Redlegs. With
Redsfest 2010 going on this weekend and the winter meetings right around
the corner, the Cincinnati Reds are quickly approaching the demise of the
'10 off-season as Reds fans readily anticipate an exciting follow-up to the
Reds' 2010 Championship season. Let's reflect on November....
11.1
Joey Votto wins Hank Aaron Award:
The annual award given to the best swinger in each league every season was
handed to Joey Votto in 2010. Joey's .324 average, 37 dingers, and 113 runs
batted in '10 helped him acquire just the twelfth ever NL Hank Aaron Award
and settled his name with the likes of previous winners such as Manny
Ramirez, Todd Helton, Barry Bonds, Albert Pujols, David Ortiz, Alex
Rodriguez, Ryan Howard, Kevin Youkilis, and Derek Jeter. Remember those
prolific names during contract times.
11.3
Walt Jocketty named Executive of the
Year: Since 1936
The Sporting News has named Major League Baseball's Executive of the Year.
Reds' GM Walt Jocketty was named the 2010 E.O.Y. and the honor marked Walt's
third award. Jocketty won his first two E.O.Y. awards during his stint in
St. Louis in which he won seven division titles, two National League
Championships, and one World Series. Upon arriving in Cincinnati , Mr.
Jocketty quickly turned the organization sideways and figured out a way to
compile a championship season in 2010.
11.3
Bats to keep staff while Reds
exercise with Gomes and Arroyo:
The Reds' minor league affiliate in Louisville will bring back manager Rick
Sweet along with his entire staff after the squad won their third straight
International League West Division Championship with a 79-64 record. Sweet
is the all-time winningest manager in Bats history with a 466-394 record.
Adrian "Smokey" Garrett, Ted Power, Tomas Vera, and Gabe Moreno will all
assist Rick Sweet for the 2011 season. In Cincinnati, outfielder Jonny Gomes
and pitcher Bronson Arroyo both had their contract options exercised by the
Reds. Gomes will receive $1.75 million in 2011 while Arroyo will receive $11
million. Options for shortstop Orlando Cabrera and pitcher Aaron Harang were
not optioned.
11.4
Big Red Sparky dies at 76:
Battling dementia, former Reds manager Sparky Anderson passed away on
November 4, 2010 at the age of seventy-six. Sparky led the Big Red Machine
to a pair of NL Pennants and two World Championships during the seventies
and continued to manage for the Detroit Tigers for seventeen years while
leading them to a World Championship in 1984. The Hall of Famer is survived
by his wife (Carol), two sons (Lee and Albert), one daughter (Shirley), and
nine grandchildren.
11.10
Rolen, Phillips, and Arroyo win Gold
Gloves: Reds'
pitcher Bronson Arroyo was honored with his first Rawlings Gold Glove Award
for his excellent defense while on the mound during the 2011 season. Second
baseman Brandon Phillips received the award for the second time in his
career while third baseman Scott Rolen received his eighth. The last
multiple Gold Glove winners for the Reds were Bench, Morgan, Concepcion, and
Geronimo who did it four straight years (1974-77).
11.15
Reds resign Ramon:
Ramon Hernandez was traded to the Cincinnati Reds on December 9, 2008 in a
deal that included Ryan Freel. After five seasons in Oakland, two in San
Diego, and three in Baltimore; Hernandez returned to the National League and
began posting solid number with the Reds offensively and brought some Latin
flavor to the receiving end of th Reds' pitching staff. Ramon hit .258 for
the Reds in 2009 with 37 RBI during 81 games and hit .297 with 48 RBI in
2010 during 97 games. He will return to Cincinnati and will play aside Ryan
Hanigan for the 2011 season in which Ramon will be paid $3 million.
11.19
Votto won something:
Reds' first baseman Joey Votto's .424 OBP, .600 SLG, 1.024 OPS, .324 BA, 113
RBI, and 37 HR during the 2010 season established him as the tenth Red to
win the Most Valuable Player Award and first since since Barry Larkin in
1995. During just his third season in the majors, one would have to agree
that Votto has established himself as one of the games greatest, eh?
11.23
D-Train's next stop, Cincinnati:
2003 Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star Dontrelle Willis signed a
minor league contract with the Reds and was invited to the team's 2011
Spring Training. The 28 year-old lefthander won 68 games during five seasons
in Florida (2003-07) and helped the Marlins win a World Championship in
2003. Since then, Willis has played for the Detroit Tigers and the Arizona
Diamondbacks. Averaging a 3.78 ERA in Florida, Willis' ERAs have been 9.38,
7.49, and 5.62 over the past three years.
10.25.10 BY:MEH GRACIAS
GREAT SEASON BUILDS
EXPECTATIONS FOR REDS' FUTURE
First of all, we would like to offer an apology. After the Cincinnati Reds
were swept during their short three-game playoff series earlier this month,
Whack Reds took an unexpected break due to the shock. After thoroughly
covering the Reds throughout the entire 2010 season and following them to
their first playoff appearance in fifteen years, we had forgotten how
overwhelming postseason baseball was when your hometown favorite is included
and were quickly reminded of that familiar feeling of the season being
terminated. Although it was delightful, the Reds' complete breakdown during
the NLDS against the Phillies brought us back down to earth after an amazing
and relentless 2010 Cincinnati Reds season.
There are no complaints on our end. During the Cincinnati Reds' 2010 season
they composed their best record since 1999 (96-67) and won their division
for the first time since they achieved the feat in 1995. After spending the
last nine seasons under the .500 mark (2001-'09), the Reds finished ten
games above in 2010.
So, congratulations Reds! We all knew that winning was around the corner,
but few expected such a great one so soon. The anticipation of seeing this
great team begin the 2011 season and make another run to the World Series is
already growing and it will be here before we all know it. Stay tuned to
Whack Reds during the off-season for all your Cincinnati Reds desires
leading up to March 31, when they begin the 2011 regular season, against the
Milwaukee Brewers.
John Fay from the Cincinnati Enquirer gives us a great breakdown of what to
expect by position:
