The Wilson Valdezification of the lineup has entered phase 2. The code name for this phase is "What The Hell Are the Reds Doing with the Roster?" With the team doing so well, it's hard to sweat the question too much. It's just quizzical, for now. As of this writing, I don't know what they're doing to fill out the bench, but - along with only ~5 available bullpen arms - an extra inning game would just be the worst.
Somewhat quietly, the Reds have moved into the middle of the pack in offense. They're currently tied for 6th in the NL in runs scored per game and 8th in wRC+. Their offense looks even a little bit better if you assume it's somehow better-suited for their home park. Or you consider most of the teams ahead of them have played a few more warm-weather games.
The offense won't be helped by having Stubbs and Heisey out, but I don't think it's seriously impaired by their absence either. With Ludwick healthy, it roughly nets out to Stubbs for Valdez. It's still nutty to bat Exxon 2nd, but for a limited engagement, he could easily run into some hits.
Bronson takes on, judging from the game, a holy man from the subcontinent. So respect. Lineups etc. after the jump.
LINEUPS
Reds (35-27)
Zack Cozart (R) SS
Wilson Valdez (R) CF
Joey Votto (L) 1B
Brandon Phillips (R) 2B
Jay Bruce (L) RF
Todd Frazier (R) 3B
Ryan Ludwick (R) LF
Ryan Hanigan (R) C
Bronson Arroyo (R) P
Mets (35-27)
Kirk Nieuwenhuis (L) CF
Daniel Murphy (L) 2B
David Wright (R) 3B
Lucas Duda (L) RF
Ike Davis (L) 1B
Jason Bay (R) LF
Josh Thole (L) C
Omar Quintanilla (L) SS
Dillon Gee (R) P
Bullpen notes:
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Jose Arredondo threw 5 pitches last game and picked up the win.
- Tonight is an Upper House sort of bullpen night.