The Reds are 7-3 after winning their third straight game scoring only 2 runs. They beat the Rangers 2-0 and 2-1 to complete the sweep, then beat the Marlins last night 2-0 to start the 4 game series off right. The pitching staff is giving up an average of 3 runs a game. The offense is only scoring 2.8 runs a game. I am not sure if I should be more excited about the dominant pitching staff or worried about the lack luster hitting by a majority of the roster. Let's talk about it!
I was a catcher and then a pitcher for the majority of the time I played baseball and then I was a pitching coach in the years after I stopped playing. That said I have been thrilled to see the dominance of the starters and the bullpen guys. The starters are going deep into games being efficient, limiting the walks and hits, and most importantly keeping runs off the board. The issue the Reds might run into is having too many pitchers that are worthy of being the number 1 guy. I think it is widely known that Greene is, or at least was before the start of this season, the Reds ace. In my opinion that is now up for a debate between not only one other guy but two other guys. Those guys being Rhett Lowder and Chase Burns.
Let's start with Lowder. He got a no decision in his first start in a game the Reds won 3-2 against Boston. Then last Saturday he went 6 shut out innings to earn the win. In 8 career starts Lowder has went at least 5 scoreless innings 5 times. That is ace material. Chase Burns has been equally impressive this season, Like Lowder, he is 1-0 with a no decision. He has thrown 11 innings, giving up 6 hits and only 1 run. Both guys who I would feel very comfortable getting the ball in a do or die game.
Now for the lack of hitting. The Reds are only scoring 2.8 runs per game and managing to get away with it because the pitching has been so dominant. How many games last year did the Reds give up 3 or less runs and they still lost? Too many to count would be my answer. I floated the idea early on and now it actually seems like it would be viable. I think the Reds should look to move Lodolo for an outfield bat if possible. That is where the biggest hole in the offense currently is. I also think with Burns and Lowder throwing like they are, you will have 3 ace type pitchers in your rotation. Don't get me wrong the outfield is not a complete liability in the box. Dane Myers has shown to be a solid pick up already. Spencer Steer is coming to life finally. Will Benson has been solid. I think we need another truly reliable hitter. Either in the trade market, or calling up a AAA guy. Beating a broken drum here, Rece Hinds. If Marte continues to struggle when you play him then you have to swap him for Hinds in my opinion. Hitting needs to be the main focus in these next few games and if the struggle remains then changes need to be made.
Yes the Reds are 7-3 through 10 games. Yes the pitching has been amazing. Yes we have young bats like Elly and Sal playing near or at the top of their game currently. But I don't want to settle for a cup of coffee in the playoffs again. I want to see this team advance deep into the playoffs. We have the pitching to advance and we have most of the hitting for it. I might be crazy, but this team when at full potential could win the World Series.
Tonight's game we will watch Abbott take on Alcantara. Great pitching match up again. Could we see another low scoring game? Maybe. But I don't think so. The Marlins can score and I think the hitting for the Reds finally breaks out.
Prediction:
Reds: 8
Marlins: 6
Who Dey & Go Redlegs!
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