Reds OFs vs. L:

Bruce .292/.384/.676 .292 wOBA in 113 PA

Ludwick .347/.561/.907 .381 wOBA in 75 PA

Stubbs .333/.500/.833 .358 wOBA in 82 PA

Heisey .304/.404/.707 .307 wOBA in 56 PA

Reds OFs vs. R:

Bruce .339/.535/.875 .362 wOBA in 277 PA

Ludwick .302/.475/.777 .329 wOBA in 200 PA

Stubbs .287/.336/.623 .277 wOBA in 247 PA

Heisey .320/.376/.696 .305 wOBA in 199 PA

Word has been that Jay Bruce has hit lefties just fine the last couple of seasons, making him poised to become a star. He's not hitting the lefties as well this year (last night aside). This suggests two things to me... One, it might be time to start thinking about PHing for Bruce when the LOOGY is brought in - at least until he shows he's on one of his hot streaks. Two, if the Reds made a trade, the ideal target would be someone who could play for Stubbs against righties and for Bruce against lefties. This would mean they have the arm for RF and the legs for CF, plus the ability to hit both right-handed and left-handed pitching reasonably well. Heisey seems to fit that role OK, but if someone who can hit better is out there to be had, you have to make that move.

I think it is too early to give up on Bruce becoming a star, but I also think that the struggles against lefties are contributing heavily toward the fan backlash he seems to be taking right now. Sit him more often against the lefties and let him build confidence as his overall numbers climb.