Red Reporter: FanPosts

2013 Draft: Aaron Blair-RHP-Marshall

2013-05-21T17:06:43Z

The Turtle Returns. I haven't been around much, but it's draft season, so if you can put up with me, I'll be honored to offer draft coverage before, during, and after the event. Since the Draft is a mere 16 days away, I'll try to cram as much information as I can into the next couple of weeks. The Reds possess four of the first 104 selections, including Nos. 27, 38, 67, and 104. This offers a prime opportunity to restock a middle-of-the-pack farm system. We'll begin our look at potential Reds draft picks with Marshall right-handed pitcher Aaron Blair.

Why Blair? Well, I went to Marshall so I get to pick. I've also seen Blair more than any other top-level pitcher and he might be the fastest-rising hurler in the draft class, having begun the year as a fourth-rounder and pitched himself into possibly the back of the first round. Blair, a 6-foot-5, 220 pound junior, throws his fastball 90-92 m.p.h. and hits 95. Blair (21) holds his velocity deep into games. His plus change is a swing-and-miss offering. Blair flings an inconsistent curve and slider, but both have potential to be average. His low three-quarters arm slot might be better suited to the slider. Blair finished the season 5-5 with a 2.85 earned run average for a team that finished 20-34. The native of Las Vegas allowed just 59 hits in 82 innings and struck out 84 with 36 walks. Foes batted .198. Blair allowed just four home runs in his last 165 innings.

A negative is that Blair uncorked 11 wild pitches. Blair's most impressive performances this season came against Big 12 co-leader West Virginia and No. 19 Houston. In an 8-0 victory over the Mountaineers, Blair struck out 11 in six innings. Against the Cougars, Blair whiffed 11 in eight innings of a 4-0 triumph. Blair's final start, a 13-0 loss to No. 20 Rice, wasn't a thing of beauty as he allowed six earned runs in three innings. A 21st-round draft pick by the Astros out of high school, Blair features a long, loose arm action. Scouts adore his bulldog mentality and outstanding makeup. He features solid command, mixes his pitches well and isn't afraid to throw any of his four pitches in any count.

Blair's ERA was 3.98 as a sophomore and 2.72 as a freshman. Blair's rise toward the first round began last summer in the Cape Cod League, where he went 6-0 with a 1.17 ERA against outstanding competition. Blair, a marketing major, won two games in the playoffs. He struck out 60 in 51 innnings.

Frankie Piliere and John Sickels have pegged Blair as a late first-round selection. Keith Law has him in the supplemental round. Baseball America has Blair going no later than the second round. Blair comes from a baseball family. His dad played at UNLV and his brother played at Cal State-Northridge.

A belated attempt at a series preview, thwarted by the gods of HTML

2013-05-15T03:58:25Z

Ok, so I really liked the Sabre series previews that used to appear on this site. Since I noticed them not being posted anymore, I figured I would take a shot at doing one myself. Some brief caveats:

1) I'm not JinAZ. I'm not as good at this as he was, I don't know how to do all the stuff he did, and I probably can't dance as well (statistically speaking, this is probable at the .05 level). But I am handy with a spreadsheet, so I'm gonna give this a go anyway. But this is my first time publishing anything on a blog, so I apologize in advance if I break some kind of blogging rule I'm unaware of.

2) My sense of humor is weird. Also, like a teenage girl, I will become irrationally violent if all my jokes are not immediately appreciated and liked. Deal with it.

3) I know this one is a day late. It took me longer than I expected to format the initial version.

4) I also can't get my conditional formatting to work either. I'll try to fix that so things are more pretty.

With that out of the way....

Current	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	38	22	16	0.579	32	4.74	3.89
Marlins	38	11	27	0.29	-56	2.84	4.32

Projected	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	124	64	60	0.518	21	4.36	4.19
Marlins	124	51	73	0.415	-95	3.74	4.5

Total	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	162	86	76	0.533	53	4.45	4.12
Marlins	162	62	100	0.386	-151	3.53	4.46

The ROS projects are from Fangraphs, who uses a combo of ZIPS and Steamer, I think. Anywho, the Marlins.

Ouch.

Given that most projection systems use regression formulas, which assume a certain amount of normalization for all outliers (no team is projected for more than 95 wins, I think), being projected for 100 losses has to be some kind of weird reverse accomplishment.

Reds
Starters	Name	wRC+	BB%	K%	ISO%	BABIP	Avg	OBP	SLUG	wOBA	Fld	BsR	WAR
C	Ryan Hanigan	-20	11.80%	9.80%	0	0.125	0.114	0.216	0.114	0.146	2	-0.2	-0.3
1B	Joey Votto	152	18.00%	20.20%	0.155	0.388	0.31	0.444	0.465	0.395	1.1	0.4	1.6
2B	Brandon Phillips	108	6.20%	16.10%	0.186	0.291	0.276	0.319	0.462	0.332	3.4	-1.4	1
3B	Todd Frazier	106	10.90%	23.80%	0.197	0.273	0.236	0.327	0.433	0.329	4.7	1.8	1.3
SS	Zack Cozart	51	4.50%	12.20%	0.136	0.198	0.207	0.237	0.343	0.249	1.9	1.7	0.1
RF	Jay Bruce	89	6.50%	30.60%	0.145	0.365	0.258	0.306	0.403	0.305	-0.7	-1.8	-0.1
CF	Shin-Soo Choo	177	14.20%	18.80%	0.237	0.364	0.309	0.451	0.547	0.432	-7.1	1.5	1.7
LF	Xavier Paul	124	15.90%	17.40%	0.155	0.318	0.276	0.391	0.431	0.356	0.4	-0.7	0.3
DH
Bench	Name
C	Devin Mesoraco	85	13.90%	17.70%	0.121	0.283	0.242	0.342	0.364	0.299	0	-0.2	0.3
OF	Donald Lutz	114	0.00%	10.50%	0.158	0.313	0.316	0.316	0.474	0.341	0.5	0.8	0.2
OF	Derrick Robinson	124	20.70%	24.10%	0	0.438	0.304	0.448	0.304	0.356	0.5	0	0.2
IF	Jack Hannahan	86	11.40%	25.70%	0.065	0.364	0.258	0.343	0.323	0.301	0.1	0.1	0.1
If	Cesar Izturis	16	13.50%	8.10%	0	0.172	0.156	0.27	0.156	0.199	0.4	0	-0.2

Hannigan's line so far, with a SSS disclaimer, kind of jumps out at me here. At first I thought the ISO was a mistake, but he really hasn't had an extra base hit yet this season. Weird. Also, for all the talk of Frazier's struggles, he is still hitting at an above average level his position. Goes to show what power will do for you, I guess. Good to see Izturis is filling the void left by Cairo from last year.

A word about Choo: he is currently projected to have the 6th worst defensive season (by UZR) of any player in the last 15 years. Side note: Matt Kemp is being projected as having the worst defensive season in the last 15 years by any player, so SSS and whatnot. But still, I think this really should raise some legit questions about whether or not Choo really is a good option in center.

Marlins
Starters	Name	wRC+	BB%	K%	ISO%	BABIP	Avg	OBP	SLUG	wOBA	Fld	BsR	WAR
C	Miguel Olivo	60	4.80%	24.20%	0.186	0.195	0.186	0.226	0.373	0.26	0	-0.4	0
1B	Greg Dobbs	50	8.50%	14.00%	0.052	0.237	0.209	0.287	0.261	0.245	2.3	-0.2	-0.4
2B	Derek Dietrich	200	0.00%	18.20%	0.364	0.375	0.364	0.364	0.727	0.463	0.3	0	0.2
3B	Placido Polanco	63	6.90%	6.30%	0.038	0.26	0.242	0.306	0.28	0.264	-0.6	-1.6	-0.4
SS	Adeiny Hechavarria	57	7.70%	12.10%	0.167	0.183	0.179	0.242	0.345	0.257	-0.8	-0.1	-0.2
RF	Marcell Ozuna	139	6.10%	14.30%	0.174	0.368	0.326	0.367	0.5	0.375	1.7	-0.2	0.5
CF	Justin Ruggiano	108	9.20%	26.10%	0.214	0.268	0.23	0.312	0.444	0.33	2	2	1.1
LF	Juan Pierre	57	4.40%	9.50%	0.032	0.268	0.24	0.291	0.272	0.256	0.8	3.4	0
DH

BN	Rob Brantly	77	9.50%	16.80%	0.084	0.279	0.229	0.316	0.313	0.285	1	-1.1	0.2
BN	Nick Green	87	4.80%	19.00%	0.143	0.286	0.257	0.3	0.4	0.3	-1	-1.1	-0.1
BN	Chris Coghlan	46	6.50%	25.80%	0.069	0.286	0.207	0.258	0.276	0.24	-3.5	0.2	-0.6
BN	Matt Diaz	-30	6.70%	20.00%	0.071	0.091	0.071	0.133	0.143	0.13	0	0	-0.2

And now we see why the Marlins are projected for 100 losses. This is a terrible lineup. In fact, the only things propping it up right now, without Stanton, are two rookies (Dietrich and Ozona). Apart from these two, only Ruggiano appears to be a competent big league hitter. Seriously, look at the wRC+'s. It's like a lineup composed entirely of slumping Cozarts. Nothing much on the bench, either.

Reds
Starters	Name	ERA	FIP	xFIP	WHIP	BABIP	LOB%	K/9	BB/9	K/BB	HR/9	vs AVG	SIERA
	Mat Latos	3.04	3.31	3.53	1.27	0.315	0.759	8.40	2.50	3.36	0.89	0.256	3.58
	Bronson Arroyo	3.76	3.85	4.08	1.14	0.272	0.722	5.13	1.37	3.75	1.03	0.254	4.27
	Homer Bailey	3.83	3.23	3.21	1.25	0.302	0.738	8.93	2.98	3.00	0.85	0.241	3.42
	Mike Leake	4.32	4.29	4.16	1.49	0.336	0.759	6.05	2.59	2.33	1.08	0.299	4.16
	Tony Cingrani	2.89	4.1	2.77	0.96	0.241	0.971	11.89	2.25	5.29	1.93	0.198	2.43
DL	Johnny Cueto	2.6	3.46	2.8	1.04	0.233	0.855	9.35	3.12	3.00	1.04	0.190	3.17
Bullpen	Name
	Aroldis Chapman	2.65	1.94	2.71	1.00	0.265	0.77	13.76	3.71	3.71	0.53	0.164	2.15
	Jonathan Broxton	4.41	4.22	4.32	1.04	0.217	0.53	6.61	2.76	2.40	1.10	0.200	3.83
	Sean Marshall	1.69	2.06	2.88	0.56	0.143	0.67	6.75	1.69	4.00	0.00	0.111	2.68
	Sam LeCure	1.59	3.17	4.03	1.06	0.214	0.90	9.00	4.24	2.13	0.53	0.167	3.60
	J.J. Hoover	3.57	5.43	4.38	1.19	0.200	0.92	9.17	4.08	2.25	2.04	0.194	3.75
	Alfredo Simon	3.66	3.4	3.78	1.12	0.273	0.69	8.24	2.29	3.60	0.92	0.227	3.20
	Logan Ondrusek	4.5	5.28	4.16	1.21	0.237	0.78	7.07	3.21	2.20	1.93	0.231	3.85

The Cingrani vs. Leake debate will almost surely end with Cingrani being sent down. Not that he should be, at least as far as SIERA is concerned, but whatever. Lets just all appreciate that obscene strikeout rate while we can.

Take a step back and look at that chart. That's what a damn fine pitching staff looks like. When the ‘weak links' in your rotation and bullpen are Leake and Hoover/Ondrusek, things are going well. Things worth watching here include Chapman's strikeout rate (as always), Arroyo's lack of walks (ditto), and Cingrani's HR rate (while he's here, so for another couple days).

Marlins
Starters	Name	ERA	FIP	xFIP	WHIP	BABIP	LOB%	K/9	BB/9	K/BB	HR/9	vs AVG	SIERA
	Kevin Slowey	2.55	3.38	4.1	1.14	0.279	0.84	6.57	2.01	3.27	0.73	0.241	4.14
	Ricky Nolasco	3.72	3.95	3.99	1.16	0.264	0.741	6.33	2.05	3.09	1.12	0.239	4.12
	Jose Fernandez	3.65	3.16	3.2	1.16	0.274	0.729	9.49	3.41	2.79	0.73	0.212	3.41
	Alex Sanabia	4.85	5.64	5.39	1.72	0.323	0.747	5.08	4.62	1.10	1.38	0.303	5.44
	Tom Koehler	3.31	3.85	4.3	1.16	0.234	0.739	5.51	3.86	1.43	0.55	0.207	4.59

Bullpen
	Steve Cishek	4.2	4.06	3.4	1.27	0.256	0.698	10.20	4.20	2.43	1.20	0.207	3.14
	Mike Dunn	2.04	2.94	3.77	1.25	0.294	0.874	8.15	3.06	2.67	0.51	0.235	3.47
	Jon Rauch	7.36	3.2	3.9	1.57	0.37	0.531	8.59	3.07	2.80	0.61	0.295	3.45
	Ryan Webb	1.71	3.23	4.62	0.86	0.13	0.667	6.00	4.71	1.27	0.00	0.103	4.77
	A.J. Ramos	3.6	3.5	3.94	1.45	0.34	0.699	10.35	4.05	2.56	0.90	0.256	3.31
	Chad Qualls	4.11	3.91	3.35	1.3	0.318	0.756	7.04	2.35	3.00	1.17	0.276	3.08
	Wade LeBlanc	6.11	4.98	4.91	1.67	0.345	0.665	6.37	3.06	2.08	1.53	0.313	4.63

Looking at their pitching, you might say "No way will the Marlin's lose 100 games. That staff is mediocre, sure, but not 100 loss bad. No way." The Reds will be facing Nolasco, Sanabia and Fernandez. The most interesting two are the last two, because Fernandez is a highly touted prospect, and the statistics hate Sanabia like he slept with their sister. I have not idea how that guy has an ERA under 5 with basically a 5/5 K to BB per 9 ratio. Fernandez clearly projects as their best pitcher long term, given that he's like 20 and pitching at a level that is slightly above league average. He's also the only Marlin's pitcher who would have a shot at cracking the Reds rotation, and then only as the #5.

Ok, so I really liked the Sabre series previews that used to appear on this site. Since I noticed them not being posted anymore, I figured I would take a shot at doing one myself. Some brief caveats:

2) My sense of humor is weird. Also, like a teenage girl, I will become irrationally violent if all my jokes are not immediately appreciated and liked. Deal with it.

3) I know this one is a day late. It took me longer than I expected to format the initial version.

4) I also can't get my conditional formatting to work either. I'll try to fix that so things are more pretty.

With that out of the way....

Current	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	38	22	16	0.579	32	4.74	3.89
Marlins	38	11	27	0.29	-56	2.84	4.32

Projected	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	124	64	60	0.518	21	4.36	4.19
Marlins	124	51	73	0.415	-95	3.74	4.5

Total	G	W	L	W%	Run Diff	aveRuns	aveAllow
Reds	162	86	76	0.533	53	4.45	4.12
Marlins	162	62	100	0.386	-151	3.53	4.46

The ROS projects are from Fangraphs, who uses a combo of ZIPS and Steamer, I think. Anywho, the Marlins.

Ouch.

Reds
Starters	Name	wRC+	BB%	K%	ISO%	BABIP	Avg	OBP	SLUG	wOBA	Fld	BsR	WAR
C	Ryan Hanigan	-20	11.80%	9.80%	0	0.125	0.114	0.216	0.114	0.146	2	-0.2	-0.3
1B	Joey Votto	152	18.00%	20.20%	0.155	0.388	0.31	0.444	0.465	0.395	1.1	0.4	1.6
2B	Brandon Phillips	108	6.20%	16.10%	0.186	0.291	0.276	0.319	0.462	0.332	3.4	-1.4	1
3B	Todd Frazier	106	10.90%	23.80%	0.197	0.273	0.236	0.327	0.433	0.329	4.7	1.8	1.3
SS	Zack Cozart	51	4.50%	12.20%	0.136	0.198	0.207	0.237	0.343	0.249	1.9	1.7	0.1
RF	Jay Bruce	89	6.50%	30.60%	0.145	0.365	0.258	0.306	0.403	0.305	-0.7	-1.8	-0.1
CF	Shin-Soo Choo	177	14.20%	18.80%	0.237	0.364	0.309	0.451	0.547	0.432	-7.1	1.5	1.7
LF	Xavier Paul	124	15.90%	17.40%	0.155	0.318	0.276	0.391	0.431	0.356	0.4	-0.7	0.3
DH
Bench	Name
C	Devin Mesoraco	85	13.90%	17.70%	0.121	0.283	0.242	0.342	0.364	0.299	0	-0.2	0.3
OF	Donald Lutz	114	0.00%	10.50%	0.158	0.313	0.316	0.316	0.474	0.341	0.5	0.8	0.2
OF	Derrick Robinson	124	20.70%	24.10%	0	0.438	0.304	0.448	0.304	0.356	0.5	0	0.2
IF	Jack Hannahan	86	11.40%	25.70%	0.065	0.364	0.258	0.343	0.323	0.301	0.1	0.1	0.1
If	Cesar Izturis	16	13.50%	8.10%	0	0.172	0.156	0.27	0.156	0.199	0.4	0	-0.2

Marlins
Starters	Name	wRC+	BB%	K%	ISO%	BABIP	Avg	OBP	SLUG	wOBA	Fld	BsR	WAR
C	Miguel Olivo	60	4.80%	24.20%	0.186	0.195	0.186	0.226	0.373	0.26	0	-0.4	0
1B	Greg Dobbs	50	8.50%	14.00%	0.052	0.237	0.209	0.287	0.261	0.245	2.3	-0.2	-0.4
2B	Derek Dietrich	200	0.00%	18.20%	0.364	0.375	0.364	0.364	0.727	0.463	0.3	0	0.2
3B	Placido Polanco	63	6.90%	6.30%	0.038	0.26	0.242	0.306	0.28	0.264	-0.6	-1.6	-0.4
SS	Adeiny Hechavarria	57	7.70%	12.10%	0.167	0.183	0.179	0.242	0.345	0.257	-0.8	-0.1	-0.2
RF	Marcell Ozuna	139	6.10%	14.30%	0.174	0.368	0.326	0.367	0.5	0.375	1.7	-0.2	0.5
CF	Justin Ruggiano	108	9.20%	26.10%	0.214	0.268	0.23	0.312	0.444	0.33	2	2	1.1
LF	Juan Pierre	57	4.40%	9.50%	0.032	0.268	0.24	0.291	0.272	0.256	0.8	3.4	0
DH

BN	Rob Brantly	77	9.50%	16.80%	0.084	0.279	0.229	0.316	0.313	0.285	1	-1.1	0.2
BN	Nick Green	87	4.80%	19.00%	0.143	0.286	0.257	0.3	0.4	0.3	-1	-1.1	-0.1
BN	Chris Coghlan	46	6.50%	25.80%	0.069	0.286	0.207	0.258	0.276	0.24	-3.5	0.2	-0.6
BN	Matt Diaz	-30	6.70%	20.00%	0.071	0.091	0.071	0.133	0.143	0.13	0	0	-0.2

Reds
Starters	Name	ERA	FIP	xFIP	WHIP	BABIP	LOB%	K/9	BB/9	K/BB	HR/9	vs AVG	SIERA
	Mat Latos	3.04	3.31	3.53	1.27	0.315	0.759	8.40	2.50	3.36	0.89	0.256	3.58
	Bronson Arroyo	3.76	3.85	4.08	1.14	0.272	0.722	5.13	1.37	3.75	1.03	0.254	4.27
	Homer Bailey	3.83	3.23	3.21	1.25	0.302	0.738	8.93	2.98	3.00	0.85	0.241	3.42
	Mike Leake	4.32	4.29	4.16	1.49	0.336	0.759	6.05	2.59	2.33	1.08	0.299	4.16
	Tony Cingrani	2.89	4.1	2.77	0.96	0.241	0.971	11.89	2.25	5.29	1.93	0.198	2.43
DL	Johnny Cueto	2.6	3.46	2.8	1.04	0.233	0.855	9.35	3.12	3.00	1.04	0.190	3.17
Bullpen	Name
	Aroldis Chapman	2.65	1.94	2.71	1.00	0.265	0.77	13.76	3.71	3.71	0.53	0.164	2.15
	Jonathan Broxton	4.41	4.22	4.32	1.04	0.217	0.53	6.61	2.76	2.40	1.10	0.200	3.83
	Sean Marshall	1.69	2.06	2.88	0.56	0.143	0.67	6.75	1.69	4.00	0.00	0.111	2.68
	Sam LeCure	1.59	3.17	4.03	1.06	0.214	0.90	9.00	4.24	2.13	0.53	0.167	3.60
	J.J. Hoover	3.57	5.43	4.38	1.19	0.200	0.92	9.17	4.08	2.25	2.04	0.194	3.75
	Alfredo Simon	3.66	3.4	3.78	1.12	0.273	0.69	8.24	2.29	3.60	0.92	0.227	3.20
	Logan Ondrusek	4.5	5.28	4.16	1.21	0.237	0.78	7.07	3.21	2.20	1.93	0.231	3.85

Marlins
Starters	Name	ERA	FIP	xFIP	WHIP	BABIP	LOB%	K/9	BB/9	K/BB	HR/9	vs AVG	SIERA
	Kevin Slowey	2.55	3.38	4.1	1.14	0.279	0.84	6.57	2.01	3.27	0.73	0.241	4.14
	Ricky Nolasco	3.72	3.95	3.99	1.16	0.264	0.741	6.33	2.05	3.09	1.12	0.239	4.12
	Jose Fernandez	3.65	3.16	3.2	1.16	0.274	0.729	9.49	3.41	2.79	0.73	0.212	3.41
	Alex Sanabia	4.85	5.64	5.39	1.72	0.323	0.747	5.08	4.62	1.10	1.38	0.303	5.44
	Tom Koehler	3.31	3.85	4.3	1.16	0.234	0.739	5.51	3.86	1.43	0.55	0.207	4.59

Bullpen
	Steve Cishek	4.2	4.06	3.4	1.27	0.256	0.698	10.20	4.20	2.43	1.20	0.207	3.14
	Mike Dunn	2.04	2.94	3.77	1.25	0.294	0.874	8.15	3.06	2.67	0.51	0.235	3.47
	Jon Rauch	7.36	3.2	3.9	1.57	0.37	0.531	8.59	3.07	2.80	0.61	0.295	3.45
	Ryan Webb	1.71	3.23	4.62	0.86	0.13	0.667	6.00	4.71	1.27	0.00	0.103	4.77
	A.J. Ramos	3.6	3.5	3.94	1.45	0.34	0.699	10.35	4.05	2.56	0.90	0.256	3.31
	Chad Qualls	4.11	3.91	3.35	1.3	0.318	0.756	7.04	2.35	3.00	1.17	0.276	3.08
	Wade LeBlanc	6.11	4.98	4.91	1.67	0.345	0.665	6.37	3.06	2.08	1.53	0.313	4.63

The Enemy Speaks: Brewers Series

2013-05-14T02:23:34Z

Welcome to this edition of The Enemy Speaks. Here are the interesting tidbits gleaned recently from NOT listening to the Brennemen, but rather to the opposing team's announcers, who often have different, interesting, or mock-able insights, observations, and stories that the Brennemen don't work hard enough to harvest. Because while Marty and tHom have nothing to offer re: playing criticism, it never slows them down. Remember: always take the first pitch, but never walk.

via cmsimg.cincinnati.com

via 3.bp.blogspot.co

Bob Uecker is an American treasure

Listening to Brewers announcer Bob Uecker was quite the welcome vacation from hearing tHom condescend perpetually, leaving us desperately gasping for a precious breath of silence. What really struck me was that Bob was full of energy and happy to be at the game...even when his team was striking out a ton during a series sweep. There is a lesson to be learned here that the Brennemen are too proud/arrogant to learn.

via 3.bp.blogspot.com

Bob's funny lines included this one:

"I remember seeing Broxton coming out of the Dodgers bullpen and thinking he was two people."

Uke waxes on Crosley

Bob talked about playing at the Reds' Crosley Field, and the unique slope of left field. He said that defenders would have to play on the top of the slope, because you could never effectively go up. What's more - and I had never heard about this before - you had to take care not to run too quickly down the slope, because you couldn't slow down coming down the slope, metal spikes or not. So if you were going to fast, you couldn't slow up and you couldn't reverse direction until you got to the bottom of the slope or fell down...both of which had high levels of likelihood. Here are some looks at that terrace and how a few players chose to play the infamous left field.

via mlblogssnaggingbaseballs.files.wordpress.com

via 3.bp.blogspot.com

via upload.wikimedia.org

via sports.cbsimg.net

via upload.wikimedia.org

via www.blogotr.com

Here are a few photos showing the amazing size of our girthiest hurler:

Everett Teaford & Tim Collins can fit in Broxy's britches.

via 0.media.sportspickle.cvcdn.com

I remember when Lee Smith joined the Reds in May of 1996...

The Reds were on the road in Florida. Not expecting the trade, the clubbies didn’t have any uniform pants big enough to fit Lee, who was 6’ 5" and around 260 lbs. What to do?

Then-announcer Joe Nuxhall was still throwing batting practice regularly at age 67. They gave Lee Smith the old lefthander’s uniform pants to try on. They were baggy and a little too large, but Lee didn’t pitch in either game in Florida, so they worked just fine for riding the pine in the bullpen.

Marty incredulously recounted the story, saying that Lee was "the biggest man in the world, and Joe’s pants are falling off of him!"

El Nino Destructor packed Broxy a lunch:

via mlblogsdodgerstrends.files.wordpress.com

Sportingcharts.com did a great piece on the heaviest MLB players.

The Top 10 Heaviest MLB Players Since 1990

Position Name Weight Height Born Draft Year Drafted By Last Year Played

1B Walter Young 315 6' 5" 1980 1999 Pirates 2005

P Jonathan Broxton 300 6' 4" 1984 2002 Dodgers 2012

1B Dmitri Young 298 6' 2" 1973 1991 Cardinals 2008

1B Calvin Pickering 295 6' 5" 1976 1995 Orioles 2005

P CC Sabathia 290 6' 7" 1980 1998 Indians 2012

DH Adam Dunn 287 6' 6" 1979 1998 Reds 2012

P Jeff Fulchino 284 6' 5" 1979 2001 Marlins 2011

P Seth McClung 282 6' 6" 1981 1999 Devil Rays 2009

P Carlos Silva 280 6' 4" 1979 1996 Phillies 2010

P Renyel Pinto 280 6' 4" 1982 1999 Cubs 2010

That's right, 4 of the top 6 have been Reds. For those wondering how heavy Babe Ruth was during his playing days; he officially weighed in at 215 lbs but was rumored to have been closer to 250 lbs at his peak. Either way, he was well off the weights seen more recently.

Position	Name	Weight	Height	Born	Draft Year	Drafted By	Last Year Played
1B	Walter Young	315	6' 5"	1980	1999	Pirates	2005
P	Jonathan Broxton	300	6' 4"	1984	2002	Dodgers	2012
1B	Dmitri Young	298	6' 2"	1973	1991	Cardinals	2008
1B	Calvin Pickering	295	6' 5"	1976	1995	Orioles	2005
P	CC Sabathia	290	6' 7"	1980	1998	Indians	2012
DH	Adam Dunn	287	6' 6"	1979	1998	Reds	2012
P	Jeff Fulchino	284	6' 5"	1979	2001	Marlins	2011
P	Seth McClung	282	6' 6"	1981	1999	Devil Rays	2009
P	Carlos Silva	280	6' 4"	1979	1996	Phillies	2010
P	Renyel Pinto	280	6' 4"	1982	1999	Cubs	2010

Broxy's facial hair: A photo essay

Which is yore favorite? Baby Brox, Sideburns Brox, Stubbly Sideburns Brox, Van Dyke Brox, Stubbly Van Dyke Brox, or Almost Beard Brox?

via webzoom.freewebs.com

via answers.bettor.com
via www.vivitar.com

via a.espncdn.com

via baseballevolution.com

via www.kcconfidential.com

The heaviest player in the majors for a long time was Hippo Vaughn, a Rick Reuschel-size hurler for the Cubs around 1915. At 6'4" he weighed in at...215 pounds. My, how times have changed.

Here is the fattest picture of him I could find:

via blog.chicagohistory.org

wikipedia sez:

Vaughn is best remembered for his participation in what the record books used to refer to as a "double no-hitter". On May 2, 1917, at the ballpark now known as Wrigley Field, Vaughn dueled with Fred Toney of the Cincinnati Reds for nine hitless innings. In the top of the 10th, the Reds scored on a couple of hits after Vaughn had retired the first batter, while Toney continued to hold the Cubs hitless in the bottom of the inning, winning the game for the Reds. With changes to the scoring rules in recent years, this game is no longer considered as a no-hitter for Vaughn, but is still the only occasion in major league history nine innings were played without a hit.

Also of note:

Hippo Vaughn was residing in Kenosha, Wisconsin when he was stabbed by his father-in-law at midnight on November 24, 1920, during an argument at the Vaughn home. At the time he was in divorce proceedings with a hearing set in a few days. His wife's father, former Kenoshan Harry DeBolt who now lived in the east, returned to Kenosha to attend the hearing. Newspaper reports at the time said DeBolt was angered over charges made by Vaughn that his wife had been friendly with other men.

However, James and Mrs. Vaughn had already effected a reconciliation before the case was to be heard. Their 9-year-old son was with them.

As Vaughn was returning to his home he was met on the street by his father-in-law, and an argument followed. DeBolt, according to the police report, slashed at the pitcher with a razor, cutting through his overcoat and inflicting a wound to the stomach. Vaughn was taken to the Kenosha Hospital and was able to leave the facility within a few days. Following the stabbing incident, DeBolt fled the city and was sought by police in several jurisdictions.

via www.theconloncollection.com

via cmsimg.cincinnati.com

via 3.bp.blogspot.co

Bob Uecker is an American treasure

via 3.bp.blogspot.com

Bob's funny lines included this one:

"I remember seeing Broxton coming out of the Dodgers bullpen and thinking he was two people."

Uke waxes on Crosley

via mlblogssnaggingbaseballs.files.wordpress.com

via 3.bp.blogspot.com

via upload.wikimedia.org

via sports.cbsimg.net

via upload.wikimedia.org

via www.blogotr.com

Here are a few photos showing the amazing size of our girthiest hurler:

Everett Teaford & Tim Collins can fit in Broxy's britches.

via 0.media.sportspickle.cvcdn.com

I remember when Lee Smith joined the Reds in May of 1996...

The Reds were on the road in Florida. Not expecting the trade, the clubbies didn’t have any uniform pants big enough to fit Lee, who was 6’ 5" and around 260 lbs. What to do?

Marty incredulously recounted the story, saying that Lee was "the biggest man in the world, and Joe’s pants are falling off of him!"

El Nino Destructor packed Broxy a lunch:

via mlblogsdodgerstrends.files.wordpress.com

Sportingcharts.com did a great piece on the heaviest MLB players.

The Top 10 Heaviest MLB Players Since 1990

Position Name Weight Height Born Draft Year Drafted By Last Year Played

1B Walter Young 315 6' 5" 1980 1999 Pirates 2005

P Jonathan Broxton 300 6' 4" 1984 2002 Dodgers 2012

1B Dmitri Young 298 6' 2" 1973 1991 Cardinals 2008

1B Calvin Pickering 295 6' 5" 1976 1995 Orioles 2005

P CC Sabathia 290 6' 7" 1980 1998 Indians 2012

DH Adam Dunn 287 6' 6" 1979 1998 Reds 2012

P Jeff Fulchino 284 6' 5" 1979 2001 Marlins 2011

P Seth McClung 282 6' 6" 1981 1999 Devil Rays 2009

P Carlos Silva 280 6' 4" 1979 1996 Phillies 2010

P Renyel Pinto 280 6' 4" 1982 1999 Cubs 2010

That's right, 4 of the top 6 have been Reds. For those wondering how heavy Babe Ruth was during his playing days; he officially weighed in at 215 lbs but was rumored to have been closer to 250 lbs at his peak. Either way, he was well off the weights seen more recently.

Position	Name	Weight	Height	Born	Draft Year	Drafted By	Last Year Played
1B	Walter Young	315	6' 5"	1980	1999	Pirates	2005
P	Jonathan Broxton	300	6' 4"	1984	2002	Dodgers	2012
1B	Dmitri Young	298	6' 2"	1973	1991	Cardinals	2008
1B	Calvin Pickering	295	6' 5"	1976	1995	Orioles	2005
P	CC Sabathia	290	6' 7"	1980	1998	Indians	2012
DH	Adam Dunn	287	6' 6"	1979	1998	Reds	2012
P	Jeff Fulchino	284	6' 5"	1979	2001	Marlins	2011
P	Seth McClung	282	6' 6"	1981	1999	Devil Rays	2009
P	Carlos Silva	280	6' 4"	1979	1996	Phillies	2010
P	Renyel Pinto	280	6' 4"	1982	1999	Cubs	2010

Broxy's facial hair: A photo essay

Which is yore favorite? Baby Brox, Sideburns Brox, Stubbly Sideburns Brox, Van Dyke Brox, Stubbly Van Dyke Brox, or Almost Beard Brox?

via webzoom.freewebs.com

via answers.bettor.com
via www.vivitar.com

via a.espncdn.com

via baseballevolution.com

via www.kcconfidential.com

The heaviest player in the majors for a long time was Hippo Vaughn, a Rick Reuschel-size hurler for the Cubs around 1915. At 6'4" he weighed in at...215 pounds. My, how times have changed.

Here is the fattest picture of him I could find:

via blog.chicagohistory.org

wikipedia sez:

Vaughn is best remembered for his participation in what the record books used to refer to as a "double no-hitter". On May 2, 1917, at the ballpark now known as Wrigley Field, Vaughn dueled with Fred Toney of the Cincinnati Reds for nine hitless innings. In the top of the 10th, the Reds scored on a couple of hits after Vaughn had retired the first batter, while Toney continued to hold the Cubs hitless in the bottom of the inning, winning the game for the Reds. With changes to the scoring rules in recent years, this game is no longer considered as a no-hitter for Vaughn, but is still the only occasion in major league history nine innings were played without a hit.

Also of note:

Hippo Vaughn was residing in Kenosha, Wisconsin when he was stabbed by his father-in-law at midnight on November 24, 1920, during an argument at the Vaughn home. At the time he was in divorce proceedings with a hearing set in a few days. His wife's father, former Kenoshan Harry DeBolt who now lived in the east, returned to Kenosha to attend the hearing. Newspaper reports at the time said DeBolt was angered over charges made by Vaughn that his wife had been friendly with other men.

However, James and Mrs. Vaughn had already effected a reconciliation before the case was to be heard. Their 9-year-old son was with them.

As Vaughn was returning to his home he was met on the street by his father-in-law, and an argument followed. DeBolt, according to the police report, slashed at the pitcher with a razor, cutting through his overcoat and inflicting a wound to the stomach. Vaughn was taken to the Kenosha Hospital and was able to leave the facility within a few days. Following the stabbing incident, DeBolt fled the city and was sought by police in several jurisdictions.

via www.theconloncollection.com

The Enemy Speaks: Dirty Jocks

2013-05-10T01:33:19Z

Welcome to this edition of The Enemy Speaks, Recent Crap Edition.

Here are the interesting tidbits gleaned from NOT listening to the Brennemen, but rather to the opposing team's announcers, who often have different, interesting, or mock-able insights, observations, and stories that the Brennemen don't work hard enough to harvest. Because all you need to know is that real hitters neither walk nor swing at the first pitch.

Here they are pictured trying to run out of town Jay Bruce, one of the youngest players on the roster, for being so stupid as to strike out:

via a.espncdn.com

A FEW LOOSE BITS

One radio announcer recently said, You score that rundown 1-6-6-1-4.

Shin-Shoo Choo was the first Korean-born player to go 20/20 in the majors. Here he is, pictured in disco bobble regalia, between Disco Stu and perhaps the most famous Reds fan:

Disco Stu, Disco Choo, Disco Screw

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

When the Reds were 1-hit in consecutive games, it was the first time the Reds failed to get at least 2 hits in each of back-to-back games since at least 1900.

Here are some comparison photos of the 1900 Reds vs. later Reds legends enjoying Perrier:

via pbs.twimg.com
via www.cardcow.com

BERTH OF A NATION

The Nationals broadcasters looked at the Reds' schedule incredulously. The Reds faced the Cards in three separate series IN APRIL. "That's not right."

via omgreds.com

Corky wears the Golden Groomer Award.

The Nationals verbalizers also liked our dudes' names, calling one lineup an all-name team because it featured a battery of Corky Miller and Tony Cingrani. Then they wondered aloud if Corky the veteran might prefer to call more breaking balls than Golum. Stupid remark, straight out of his ass. Cingrani throws 90+% fastballs, and neither catcher calls the balls and strikes, instead getting signals from the dugout. Wow, that's a paste-eating level of stupid.

When Joey Votto got upset after a strikeout, he went full Canadian in the dugout, and his choice of verbiage was pickup up by the TV microphones. "When he gets mad, people duck. And the words he says are not words you should hear."

via www.headingfortheexits.com

LET'S GET WEIRD

What the bloody hell was that?!?

The Reds auctioned off a baseball stained with Jeff Smardoiaujdhflaksrjfbja's blood on it.

via l.yimg.com

While this is pretty epic as far as baseball weirdness goes, there are some far more bizarre, queer, and odd baseball collectibles out there, including Ken Griffey, Jr.'s jock strap from the first game I ever took my son to.

via img.gawkerassets.com

Dirty Jocks

Teams and marketers are also tapping into fan demand by offering items such as ballpark dirt encased in table coasters (sold as a set of four), and champagne bottles and corks from clubhouse celebrations. Steiner Sports claims to have sold $10 million in ballpark dirt over the years. It’s now offering a game-used sock of New York Yankees captain Derek Jeter for $500, with a certificate of authenticity included.

One rising trend: used jock straps. This summer, an eBay customer bought a game-used Alex Rodriguez jock strap for $275, according to the New York Daily News. And other collecting websites have recently featured the game-used genital support of Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett and long-time catcher Ivan Rodriguez, now with the Washington Nationals.

A collector at GameUsedUniverse.com last year claimed to have bought an athletic supporter supposedly worn by Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez when he played with the Texas Rangers. "Yes, it's weird," the collector admitted, "but for $13, an Ivan Rodriguez game used jock strap seemed like a perfect fit with my Gary Sheffield socks, Luis Castillo socks, & Carlos Guillen shower sandal."

via www.punknews.org

What better conversation piece is there than, say, owning the jockstrap Nolan Ryan wore when he pitched his seventh and final no-hitter? Ryan's jock reportedly went for $25,000.

Here's a picture of Nolan and Pudge sharing a Batman love sammich.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

CHEW ON THIS

A piece of bubblegum chewed up and spit out by Luis Gonzalez of the Arizona Diamondbacks was recently auctioned off for ten thousand dollars. How twisted is that? Someone wanted to buy a piece of dirty, flavorless bubblegum just because it had been chewed by Luis Gonzalez! Here's a list of some other weird sports-related stuff that people have paid big money for. "It's not like I can sell it again," said Curt Mueller, chief executive officer of Mueller Sports Medicine, maker of Quench Gum. He used it to attract publicity for his business. "Who would want to buy it?"

"STEROID GUM!!"

via tbfiles.files.wordpress.com

A used toothpick could be worth $440 – if it's found in the pocket of Tom Seaver's game jacket that he wore while a starting pitcher with the 1969 Miracle Mets.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

A stale piece of wedding cake could be worth $715 – if it's left over from DiMaggio's first wedding, to actress Dorothy Arnold in 1939.

via www.corbisimages.com

The Diamondbacks' Gonzalez, whose mouth produced one of the most expensive used items ever -- chewing gum -- now cuts his underwear, socks and sliding shorts into pieces before he puts them in the trash can. And Roger Clemens has been known to cut his number out of any used equipment.

via scottsdalemama.com

Ty's Teeth
In 2000, a woman paid nearly $8,000 for a pair of false teeth worn by baseball legend, Ty Cobb. The woman is the daughter of a dentist and apparently shares her father's interest in teeth.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THOSE INCREDIBLE CHOPPERS

Tim's Trimmings
The shavings of Oakland A's pitcher, Tim Hudson, were sold at a sports auction in 2002 for $75. Dirt from his cleets was sold for $50.
Captain's Captains License
New York Yankees fan Richard Tschernia owns Thurman Munson's pilot license. No word on who has Cory Lidle's.

via a.espncdn.com

Jeff Nelson's post-surgery elbow bone fragments brought $2,000.
"The mainstream collector would rather buy a nicely framed, signed photo of Marilyn Monroe for $6,000," said Doug Allen of MastroNet, a sports auction house. "But there are collectors who collect these fetish-type things for the shock value of it all."

"Ripley's Believe It Or Not" wanted to display legendary baseball promoter and HOFer Bill Veeck's wooden leg in its museum, but Bob Colleary had another idea on how to pay tribute to Veeck, the marketing genuis turned baseball team owner.

Colleary, a television writer, paid $8,500 to outbid Ripley's in an auction for Veeck's wooden leg, then made it the centerpiece for a fantasy baseball league called, appropriately enough, "Bill Veeck's Leg."

When it isn't leaning against the wall in Colleary's living room, it is used to draw lots to determine the order of each year's draft. Come season's end, Colleary said, the winner is given the trophy to show off to friends and family, a la a Stanley Cup champion.

"Bill Veeck was a legend," Colleary said. "But this isn't sacrilegious or ghoulish because he was sort of in on the joke."

Veeck's right leg was amputated in November 1946 after it was injured while he was in the Marines.

Attached to the leg, Colleary said, is a note from Veeck that talks about how much mileage he got out of the piece of wood.

In the showmanship spirit of Veeck, Colleary and his buddies lugged the trophy with them to Las Vegas , where they held their draft.

"Even in Las Vegas, people just aren't use to seeing someone carrying a wooden leg," Colleary said.

-- Darren Rovell

Welcome to this edition of The Enemy Speaks, Recent Crap Edition.

Here they are pictured trying to run out of town Jay Bruce, one of the youngest players on the roster, for being so stupid as to strike out:

via a.espncdn.com

A FEW LOOSE BITS

One radio announcer recently said, You score that rundown 1-6-6-1-4.

Shin-Shoo Choo was the first Korean-born player to go 20/20 in the majors. Here he is, pictured in disco bobble regalia, between Disco Stu and perhaps the most famous Reds fan:

Disco Stu, Disco Choo, Disco Screw

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

When the Reds were 1-hit in consecutive games, it was the first time the Reds failed to get at least 2 hits in each of back-to-back games since at least 1900.

Here are some comparison photos of the 1900 Reds vs. later Reds legends enjoying Perrier:

via pbs.twimg.com
via www.cardcow.com

BERTH OF A NATION

The Nationals broadcasters looked at the Reds' schedule incredulously. The Reds faced the Cards in three separate series IN APRIL. "That's not right."

via omgreds.com

Corky wears the Golden Groomer Award.

via www.headingfortheexits.com

LET'S GET WEIRD

What the bloody hell was that?!?

The Reds auctioned off a baseball stained with Jeff Smardoiaujdhflaksrjfbja's blood on it.

via l.yimg.com

via img.gawkerassets.com

Dirty Jocks

Teams and marketers are also tapping into fan demand by offering items such as ballpark dirt encased in table coasters (sold as a set of four), and champagne bottles and corks from clubhouse celebrations. Steiner Sports claims to have sold $10 million in ballpark dirt over the years. It’s now offering a game-used sock of New York Yankees captain Derek Jeter for $500, with a certificate of authenticity included.

One rising trend: used jock straps. This summer, an eBay customer bought a game-used Alex Rodriguez jock strap for $275, according to the New York Daily News. And other collecting websites have recently featured the game-used genital support of Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett and long-time catcher Ivan Rodriguez, now with the Washington Nationals.

via www.punknews.org

What better conversation piece is there than, say, owning the jockstrap Nolan Ryan wore when he pitched his seventh and final no-hitter? Ryan's jock reportedly went for $25,000.

Here's a picture of Nolan and Pudge sharing a Batman love sammich.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

CHEW ON THIS

"STEROID GUM!!"

via tbfiles.files.wordpress.com

A used toothpick could be worth $440 – if it's found in the pocket of Tom Seaver's game jacket that he wore while a starting pitcher with the 1969 Miracle Mets.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

A stale piece of wedding cake could be worth $715 – if it's left over from DiMaggio's first wedding, to actress Dorothy Arnold in 1939.

via www.corbisimages.com

via scottsdalemama.com

CLICK HERE TO SEE THOSE INCREDIBLE CHOPPERS

via a.espncdn.com

"Ripley's Believe It Or Not" wanted to display legendary baseball promoter and HOFer Bill Veeck's wooden leg in its museum, but Bob Colleary had another idea on how to pay tribute to Veeck, the marketing genuis turned baseball team owner.

Colleary, a television writer, paid $8,500 to outbid Ripley's in an auction for Veeck's wooden leg, then made it the centerpiece for a fantasy baseball league called, appropriately enough, "Bill Veeck's Leg."

When it isn't leaning against the wall in Colleary's living room, it is used to draw lots to determine the order of each year's draft. Come season's end, Colleary said, the winner is given the trophy to show off to friends and family, a la a Stanley Cup champion.

"Bill Veeck was a legend," Colleary said. "But this isn't sacrilegious or ghoulish because he was sort of in on the joke."

Veeck's right leg was amputated in November 1946 after it was injured while he was in the Marines.

Attached to the leg, Colleary said, is a note from Veeck that talks about how much mileage he got out of the piece of wood.

In the showmanship spirit of Veeck, Colleary and his buddies lugged the trophy with them to Las Vegas , where they held their draft.

"Even in Las Vegas, people just aren't use to seeing someone carrying a wooden leg," Colleary said.

-- Darren Rovell

Even a letter to a player could be worth $18,400 – if it's a death threat written to Mickey Mantle, circa 1953.

Of course the more salacious the letter, the more it's worth. A handwritten note from Babe Ruth to his mistress, penned on hotel stationery in 1922, sold for $75,000.

Willie Mays Full Frontal Nude - Say HEY! This offering supposedly came (huhuhu huhuhuh) with the negative and the rights to the photo. You can buy it now for the low, low price of $25K. That's a lot of money to see a dude's schlong.

SPRING SPRINGS A LEAK

What notable players have the Reds signed to camp, but never made the team? The list might surprise you. And not in that "my finger just broke through both plies of this toilet tissue" kinda way, but in a "Huh. Didn't know that one. I knew that one. Oh, yeah...him. Never heard of that dude." kinda way. Here are a few.

Miguel Olivo - 2013

Dustin Hermanson - 2007

Tuffy Rhodes - 2006

Trever Miller - 2002

Mike Greenwell - 2001

Jack Morris - 1994

Al Newman - 1992

Angel Salazar - 1988

Odd photos found while making this post:

via media.sacbee.com

via images.usatoday.com

AIDS BENEFIT COMEDY SHOW IN L.A. 5/11/13

2013-05-09T23:48:30Z

If any West Coast Reds fans out there are free Saturday night and in need of a laugh, please come to my AIDS benefit comedy show.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO CHARITY (AIDS Lifecycle Charity)

The show will be at "M Bar Hollywood" @ 10pm

1253 Vine St, Hollywood, CA 90038

Saturday, May 11th

$10 minimum

7 Professional comics will be donating their time, headlined by Brian Scolaro.

Yours Truly, RedHotHollywood will be hosting.

Run time of the show will be about 90 minutes.

Boo AIDS, Go REDS they're my favorite team!

via sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net

If any West Coast Reds fans out there are free Saturday night and in need of a laugh, please come to my AIDS benefit comedy show.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO CHARITY (AIDS Lifecycle Charity)

The show will be at "M Bar Hollywood" @ 10pm

1253 Vine St, Hollywood, CA 90038

Saturday, May 11th

$10 minimum

7 Professional comics will be donating their time, headlined by Brian Scolaro.

Yours Truly, RedHotHollywood will be hosting.

Run time of the show will be about 90 minutes.

Boo AIDS, Go REDS they're my favorite team!

via sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net

The Reds have some great problems coming up.

2013-05-09T16:50:59Z

The Cincinnati Reds currently sit at 19-16 and are in third place in their division behind Pittsburgh and St. Louis, so why am I not worried? Well I have a few reasons, first and foremost its MAY 9! There's still a lot of baseball left to play and if you know anything about this division you know its a two horse race in the end. While the Pirates are a decent team its been years since they ended with a winning record and I don't see that changing. They're a first half team that sputters and dies away in the end. St. Louis of course is a perennial contender and will always be there to haunt us but I'm still not worried.

Which leads me to my next reason: The Reds have some great problems coming up. The first of those problems is what to do with Tony Cingrani when Johnny Cueto comes back. Obviously you can't send Cingrani down with a 2.63 ERA and a winning record. The Reds are formerly had a pretty negative streak of having 6 consecutive games without a quality start. That's not good. While the rotation was flat out amazing last year it might be time to blow it up. The most common name thrown around when fans talk about replacing someone in the rotation is Mike Leake. It's an easy answer to a complicated question, it's also unfortunately the wrong answer. After examining the rotation you notice there are two guys with an ERA over 4.00 that's Mike Leake and Bronson Arroyo. While I like Bronson I have noticed his age is catching up to him. Yes he has had two outings where he pitched eight innings and looked very good, those outings were against the Marlins and the Phillies, two teams you should beat every time you play them. Throw those starts out and you have one start of seven innings and the rest are either six or five. Now the problem is if you watch his games you'll notice that he starts to look tired after five innings. That's where the wheels seem to fall off for him in. In his seven starts he has allowed 16 runs before the sixth inning to give him a 4.30 ERA.

Compare that to Mike Leake's, whose stats are not much better, Mike has a 4.32 ERA and has allowed 15 runs before the 6th inning. These stats are very similar for two pitchers that are very and that's why my decision would be predicated on the one statistic that can't be decided by competition, age. Bronson is 36 and Mike 25, age is an uncontrollable element in any sport. Eventually time catches up with everyone, we've seen it in even the greatest players, and while he is a good player, Bronson has never been great so it's a natural progression. The dilemma that comes with age is that you can't justify sending down a pitcher that's 36 and has been a great starter for you year after year.

Now I'm not suggesting he be released or even traded, he's an integral part of the heart of this team. My answer to this question is sending Bronson to the bullpen. He's usually good within the first three innings so having him as the long reliever is a perfect role for him when Cueto comes back. He's also good to keep around if Leake can't right the ship or someone gets hurt, he'll be there to act as a tourniquet just in case.

The other problem the Reds have is whether to resign Choo at the end of the season, bring up Billy Hamilton, or release or not resign someone else. Choo is currently on an incredible hot streak with a .323 avg, .453 OBP, 15 RBI, 27 Runs, and 7 HR he's the Reds best hitter right now in arguably the most important position in the lineup, if he keeps this up you can't make a legitimate argument for not resigning him unless he wants way too much, which is possible since his agent is Scott Boris. Hamilton on the other hand is hitting .190 AVG, .254 OBP, 11 Runs, 22 H, 8 RBI, and no home runs and these are his AAA numbers. His SO are pretty good at 22 but again it's AAA number so add at least ten SO to that number. Hamilton hasn't figured out AAA pitching so why would you throw him to the wolves to try and figure out ML pitching right now. If you're insistent upon bringing him up though, you can choose to not resign Ludwick, considering he's not amazing down the stretch of course, and place Choo out in LF since he's not the strongest fielder this would lessen his affect on fielding and maximize his potential in the lead off role. If Ludwick does great down the stretch this gives you a serious dilemma, but for now lets deal with what we know.

We know that Choo has been magnificent, Cingrani has pitched great in his first few starts, and Leake and Arroyo have been pretty close to awful thus far. These are a couple different answers to some difficult questions that the Reds will have to answer, if not for this year then next year.

Baseball rules question

2013-04-25T15:43:36Z

What's the right call here?

Man on third, 2 outs. Batter hits a clean single past second base. Batter/runner misses first, though, and due to less-than-all-star fielding, takes second. He has still never touched first. Coaches yell to the fielders, who manage to throw to second, and tag the runner out. In all that ensuing time, the runner on third crosses the plate.

Does the run count?

A) Yes. The runner was tagged out after the run crossed, so it counts.

B) No. The runner never safely made first base, so any out on him counts as "before the run crosses." It is entirely the same as if the runner were tagged out on his way to first; no matter how fast the guy on 3rd ran, that run would not count.

C) Yes. What you say in B) would be true if they got the runner out by throwing to first and touching the bag. But since they tagged him out at second, the batter/runner is in play and the run scores.

D) No. This is the 6/7 year old league, and none of the runs count, because we don't officially keep score. Even if the coaches always know what the score it.

Enlighten us, oh baseball wisdom of the internet.

What's the right call here?

Does the run count?

A) Yes. The runner was tagged out after the run crossed, so it counts.

D) No. This is the 6/7 year old league, and none of the runs count, because we don't officially keep score. Even if the coaches always know what the score it.

Enlighten us, oh baseball wisdom of the internet.

The Enemy Speaks: Phillies Series

2013-04-19T19:12:50Z

Welcome to this Phillies Series edition of The Enemy Speaks (formerly known as From the Opponents' Feed). Here are the interesting tidbits gleaned from NOT listening to the Brennemen, but rather to the opposing team's announcers, who often have different, interesting, or mock-able insights, observations, and stories that the Brennemen don't work hard enough to harvest. Because they inspire ire and ought to retire.

Sometimes being a Phillies fan hurts. This weekend was one of those times, but honestly not that shocking.

via cdn.yeeyan.com

Shortest?: Can you name these strapping young chaps that all suited up for the Redlegs?

via www.dearmitt.com

via lh3.ggpht.com

via snakkle.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com

That's right, these meddling kids are the Boone boys, Ray, Bob, Aaron, and Bret. We were very lucky to have on the ESPN broadcast not only Aaron, who says that RF in Great American Ball Park is the shortest in the majors, but RR favorite Barry Larkin.

Both Aaron and Barry have excellent voices to fall asleep to.

via nbcoutofbounds.files.wordpress.com

via www.bobandtom.com

via l3.yimg.com

Overheard: "Aroldis is getting paid to start. This isn't his role."

via sports.espn.go.com

BP's new nickname: Thunderbolt, which the Phillies gave him. Looks flashy, but sleek and very good.

via www.rmauctions.com

Three Outs and a Little Maybe: Laynce Nix pulled out his dance mix with a great catch, but then threw the ball into the infield..but there were already 3 out. See you in Kangaroo Court for spoiling the play of the day with the derp of the day. FACED!

via img.bleacherreport.net

The skittish are cumming! The skittish are cumming!: (/RavenRiley'd)

Flashy Phils Funkmaster of Fielding, Ben Revere, is from Lexington Catholic and was named Mr. Baseball in KY.

Here he is just 2 years ago

via upload.wikimedia.org

What does he have in common with Paul Revere?

via www.thehistorychannelclub.com

via media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com

Not one fucking thing. I looked for a while.

via teachhistory.com

via media.philly.com

And here are two random photos that I found during my research. Enjoy!

via bronxbanter.arneson.name

via cdn.bleacherreport.net

Sometimes being a Phillies fan hurts. This weekend was one of those times, but honestly not that shocking.

via cdn.yeeyan.com

Shortest?: Can you name these strapping young chaps that all suited up for the Redlegs?

via www.dearmitt.com

via lh3.ggpht.com

via snakkle.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com

Both Aaron and Barry have excellent voices to fall asleep to.

via nbcoutofbounds.files.wordpress.com

via www.bobandtom.com

via l3.yimg.com

Overheard: "Aroldis is getting paid to start. This isn't his role."

via sports.espn.go.com

BP's new nickname: Thunderbolt, which the Phillies gave him. Looks flashy, but sleek and very good.

via www.rmauctions.com

via img.bleacherreport.net

The skittish are cumming! The skittish are cumming!: (/RavenRiley'd)

Flashy Phils Funkmaster of Fielding, Ben Revere, is from Lexington Catholic and was named Mr. Baseball in KY.

Here he is just 2 years ago

via upload.wikimedia.org

What does he have in common with Paul Revere?

via www.thehistorychannelclub.com

via media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com

Not one fucking thing. I looked for a while.

via teachhistory.com

via media.philly.com

And here are two random photos that I found during my research. Enjoy!

via bronxbanter.arneson.name

via cdn.bleacherreport.net

Real Real fans go to & get wasted at Game 2

2013-04-17T03:26:45Z

Here are some people from the internet meeting people they met on the internet in real life and going to the second Reds game of the two thousand and thirteen Major League Baseball season. Names have been changed to protect the innocent.

People from popular internet sight Better Off Red heading under the bridge to do who knows what before the game.

via i.imgur.com

After getting out from under the bridge and walking on (a bridge across) water, spirits are high and the electricity in the air is palpable.

via i.imgur.com

Recordplayer and JZ find that tickets are easily scalped in Cincinnati.

via i.imgur.com

ChevyBaconSheep

via i.imgur.com

Despite being figuratively -23 degrees it looks like springtime

via i.imgur.com

Cozma holding shit down at the Grand Slam Stand.

via i.imgur.com

Mount C-busmore

or less

via i.imgur.com

Thanks to this pack of cards I never would have heard of Bryan Clutterbuck. Also, don't eat the gum it doesn't turn into acid after 23 years.

via i.imgur.com

Happy Q-balls

via i.imgur.com

Latos given 'em some cheese gas.

(Sorry I heard the giraffe killer say cheese-gas last nite and I think it's hilarious.)

via i.imgur.com

Another type of mount something-more. You write the rest of that.

via i.imgur.com

If you see any of these people buy them a beer

via i.imgur.com

Everoen si prety good feelig in this phoot

via i.imgur.com

#BigBoysattheBallPark

and I guess they serve Frisch's as well

via i.imgur.com

The few, the proud!

Thanks to some mom with a three year old that wanted to run.

via i.imgur.com

No I didn't take this picture myself. Worst ever.

via i.imgur.com

So there it is the worst pictures I took on the that night that was that night the Reds played that game that was that game that was the game two of their season. Pretty lame I know but what can you say, fat drunk guys don't take good pictures they

People from popular internet sight Better Off Red heading under the bridge to do who knows what before the game.

via i.imgur.com

After getting out from under the bridge and walking on (a bridge across) water, spirits are high and the electricity in the air is palpable.

via i.imgur.com

Recordplayer and JZ find that tickets are easily scalped in Cincinnati.

via i.imgur.com

ChevyBaconSheep

via i.imgur.com

Despite being figuratively -23 degrees it looks like springtime

via i.imgur.com

Cozma holding shit down at the Grand Slam Stand.

via i.imgur.com

Mount C-busmore

or less

via i.imgur.com

Thanks to this pack of cards I never would have heard of Bryan Clutterbuck. Also, don't eat the gum it doesn't turn into acid after 23 years.

via i.imgur.com

Happy Q-balls

via i.imgur.com

Latos given 'em some cheese gas.

(Sorry I heard the giraffe killer say cheese-gas last nite and I think it's hilarious.)

via i.imgur.com

Another type of mount something-more. You write the rest of that.

via i.imgur.com

If you see any of these people buy them a beer

via i.imgur.com

Everoen si prety good feelig in this phoot

via i.imgur.com

#BigBoysattheBallPark

and I guess they serve Frisch's as well

via i.imgur.com

The few, the proud!

Thanks to some mom with a three year old that wanted to run.

via i.imgur.com

No I didn't take this picture myself. Worst ever.

via i.imgur.com

The Enemy Speaks: Pirates Series

2013-04-15T23:39:09Z

Welcome to this Pirates Series edition of The Enemy Speaks (formerly known as From the Opponents' Feed). Here are the interesting tidbits gleaned from NOT listening to the Brennemen, but rather to the opposing team's announcers, who often have different, interesting, or mock-able insights, observations, and stories that the Brennemen don't work hard enough to harvest. Because they are more annoying than Fran Drescher's voice.

Quote of the Series: Not sure who said this to whom...

"How would you know? When was the last time you were on a road trip?!?"

On Votto: "The power will come. not only because he's that good, but also because of that hitter-friendly ballpark."

On facing the formidable Reds: "They've got a very good lineup. If we can shut em out, we've got a shot."

Walk about Balk: They thought that the balk call on their lefty pitcher was rare in that it was not flagrant and was called by the home plate umpire, Greg Gibson, whom they insisted looks just like Senator Lindsay Graham.

via losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com

via thinkprogress.org

There is some similarity, except that Lindsay Graham is a such an evil, partisan cracker that he legitimizes the adjective "cunty." A cunty quote: "It's really American to avoid paying taxes, legally."

To their credit: When McCutchen was called out on a close play at the end of a DP, they didnt like call. But during the resulting commercial break they saw that first base ump Hunter Wendlestadt had made a great call on a very close play, and they gave him and MLB plaudits.

Little Cueto = Cueto?? Cueto was actually an outfielder in the DR, then took after Pedro Martinez, whom he began to idolize. Also, Cueto might only be 5'8" according to some...the same height as Smallville actor Sam Jones III.

via rockinredlegs.files.wordpress.com

via d3gtl9l2a4fn1j.cloudfront.net

The resemblance is uncanny, eh? What's more, Sam has a very Dominican age issue, as well: It was reported in 2011 that Jones publicly misrepresented his age as 28 when he was actually 32. Federal Bureau of Prisons records list his current age as 33.

Prison?!? Hold the banana phone for one Brennaminute!!

Sam was caught dealing Oxycontin in 2011 and was recently released from Lompoc. Rumor has it that he and Mister Mxyzptlk are plotting something over at the Legion of Doom (a.k.a. Fox & Friends).

via i765.photobucket.com

Tales of the Blass Monkey: Steve Blass recounted how he was once pitching on a hot, humid day, and after 5 innings he dashed into the clubhouse potty for non-optional activity. When he came out, he asked veteran clubhouse manager John Hallahan (their 50-year-service version of Bernie Stowe) where his hat was. John noticed that Steve was still wearing his hat.

They lifted Blass immediately.

Hoodwinked:

It was noted that Alfredo Simon, after collecting his first MLB hit, got a hoodie instead of a jacket brought to him to run the bases. I recall Cueto getting busted for this last year, but now the hoodie reappears. Anyone know the deal is? If I were in Redsland, I'd certainly keep my eyes out for this Simon-commemorative couture at the Reds gift shop.

via www.kaboodle.com

Again from the Doppleganger Department: Their booth also thought that Russell Martin and Russell Crowe were dead ringers for each other. I don't see it.

via a.espncdn.com

via images0.tcdn.nl

I'd Be Remiss: If I wasn't to mention that former Ole Miss teammates Zack Cozart and Whogivesafuck Irwin faced off. Dusty even went to Coz for a scouting report, but since Irwin was out with Tommy John surgery at the time, Zack was unable to help. Dusty had him call some of his old buddies until they had more info. I agree with the Pirates TV team that I dunno why a 2006 amateur scouting report from amateurs helps.

Go Ole Miss!

via politic365.com

Three Rivers is set up for some nice camera angles, including one I hadn't seen before: an over-the-shoulder shot of Joey Votto waiting for the next pitch @ 0:25 into the game. A thing of beauty.

Quote of the Series: Not sure who said this to whom...

"How would you know? When was the last time you were on a road trip?!?"

On Votto: "The power will come. not only because he's that good, but also because of that hitter-friendly ballpark."

On facing the formidable Reds: "They've got a very good lineup. If we can shut em out, we've got a shot."

via losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com

via thinkprogress.org

via rockinredlegs.files.wordpress.com

via d3gtl9l2a4fn1j.cloudfront.net

Prison?!? Hold the banana phone for one Brennaminute!!

Sam was caught dealing Oxycontin in 2011 and was recently released from Lompoc. Rumor has it that he and Mister Mxyzptlk are plotting something over at the Legion of Doom (a.k.a. Fox & Friends).

via i765.photobucket.com

They lifted Blass immediately.

Hoodwinked:

via www.kaboodle.com

Again from the Doppleganger Department: Their booth also thought that Russell Martin and Russell Crowe were dead ringers for each other. I don't see it.

via a.espncdn.com

via images0.tcdn.nl

Go Ole Miss!

via politic365.com

Three Rivers is set up for some nice camera angles, including one I hadn't seen before: an over-the-shoulder shot of Joey Votto waiting for the next pitch @ 0:25 into the game. A thing of beauty.

West Coast swing in July - I'm looking to catch the games with fellow RR'ers

2013-04-14T20:12:46Z

I've decided to make it a personal goal to catch a Reds game in every stadium. I'm looking this year to get the West Coast teams in July, when they make their annual swing out that way. This year it starts with a 3 game series in SF July 22nd-24th, a 4 game series against LA from the 25th to the 28th, and then 3 versus the Padres in San Diego from the 29th to the 31st.

I'm looking to see if there are any RR'ers that would like to join me for the games and show me the highlights of the stadium, including what to see and what to eat. I'd also love some info on the cities - never been to California - and perhaps a guide. If this sounds interesting to you, I'll spring for your game tickets. So a free Reds game and my awesome company for some info and guidance. Win-win all around.

So - who's interested?

The Enemy Speaks: Nationals Series

2013-04-12T21:20:55Z

Welcome to this season's first edition of The Enemy Speaks (formerly known as From the Opponents' Feed). Here are the interesting tidbits gleaned from NOT listening to the Brennemen, but rather to the opposing team's announcers, who often have different, interesting, or mock-able insights, observations, and stories that the Brennemen don't work hard enough to harvest. Because they are the poop.

Only 2 nuggets to share in this episode, and they both involve The Choo Choo train.

via 2.bp.blogspot.com

There's a TRAIN in center field!!

Firstly first, CHOO PREFERS OLD SCHOOL

via cincinnati.com

That's not one, but TWO ear flaps on that batting helmet. Yet Choo only bats lefty. Is it to be extra careful? Maybe. But perhaps he never saw the logic in one flap. They now require double-flap helmets in the minor leagues, so perhaps that's its origin for The Korean Klobberer.

Choo know who would approve? THIS GUY:

via u.jimdo.com

Also, CHOO WAS A PITCHER.

Choo was selected as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Pitcher of the 2000 World Junior Baseball Championship as South Korea won the event. Choo signed a $1.35 million contract with the Mariners after the championship and converted to the outfield.

The dude's got a cannon. Here is what the traditionally-loaded Korean cannon Chun Ja Chong Tong (heaven's cannon) looked like:

via thumb.egloos.net

Here is a fully loaded Hwacha (Korean rocket launcher).

via img29.exs.cx

Here is a full loaded Korean...well...

Only 2 nuggets to share in this episode, and they both involve The Choo Choo train.

via 2.bp.blogspot.com

There's a TRAIN in center field!!

Firstly first, CHOO PREFERS OLD SCHOOL

via cincinnati.com

Choo know who would approve? THIS GUY:

via u.jimdo.com

Also, CHOO WAS A PITCHER.

The dude's got a cannon. Here is what the traditionally-loaded Korean cannon Chun Ja Chong Tong (heaven's cannon) looked like:

via thumb.egloos.net

Here is a fully loaded Hwacha (Korean rocket launcher).

via img29.exs.cx

Here is a full loaded Korean...well...

Final NCAA Tournament Pool results - come claim your prizes

2013-04-12T13:27:33Z

So, picking the winners of games based on who has the best mascot seems to be a winning strategy. Madville is the official winner of the NCAA tournament pool, which just goes to show that you can't outsmart these things. You can study your KenPom and debate over RPI and worship Joe Lunardi, but at the end of the day that stuff is all of very limited value in a single-elimination competition full of random events and drunken referees (seriously, how else do you explain this):

NOT A FOUL

So, Madville, there is a brand new copy of The Queen's Gambit waiting for you. You can e-mail me your address, or I can simply give it to you next time we see each other at a bar. I believe the boys will be out next Wednesday, so you should stop by.

Derek, you finished second, so I gotta sing for you. You can simply let me know which fight song you want in the comments, and I will post a YouTube link once it is complete. It better not be whatever piece of crap the Buckeyes call a fight song, though.

In a very convenient turn of events, Farney and ManBearPig win the beer (Farney 2, MBP 1). Obviously, it will be easy enough for me to pay you off. Incidentally, this prize is for standard 12-ounce bottles of beer, any variety. I will not be purchasing some nuclear mutant one-gallon giant bullshit thing like what Farney posted the other day.

Of course, Jeremy is the true winner here, as he got to go down to Atlanta and watch his team ~~cheat~~ win the whole damn thing.

NOT A FOUL

Of course, Jeremy is the true winner here, as he got to go down to Atlanta and watch his team ~~cheat~~ win the whole damn thing.

Off Day SIS - Table for 6

2013-04-11T19:15:15Z

So maybe you just won some money at the races, or perhaps you just met a really good publicist, but let's just say you've got the opportunity to host 5 people - ANY 5 living people - at your place for dinner and drinks. Your schedule will allow it, their schedules will allow it, the budget is taken care of, and nobody has to get up at dawn to make it to work. In other words, there's nothing in our hypothetical scenario that would either prevent someone from showing up or keep them, and you, from having a good time.

So, who do you invite?

Factor in several things, of course, since you're aiming to have a good time, too. You may want to meet both Rob Reiner and Trey Parker, but having them at the same dinner table would probably cause a bit more friction than you'd prefer. Similarly, Colin Farrell doesn't drink anymore, so saying you want to have him and Cillian Murphy over to slam some Guinness doesn't really fly, and keep in mind that if you opt to invite Hef, you're inviting 87 year old Hef and his diapers, not the dapper young ladies man of the 60's and 70'.s

Also, what's on the menu? I'm interested to see who opts for serving bar food and budweiser and inviting George Wendt and John Ratzenberger, and who the foodies are who will serve rare Chianti and kale chips.

Go!

So, who do you invite?

Go!

SIS Off Day Edition - 3 Artists, 3 Songs

2013-04-11T17:50:54Z

via a.espncdn.com

I'd like to take a moment to ask about a seriously important and omnipresent subject here at Red Reporter: music.

I don't wanna miss out on great music that you hold dear to your heart. I want to experience it with you, and add into my music treasury the artists who are previously unknown to me, but should be known.

So here's the deal...please select your favorite 3 artists and your favorite song from each (since 2005) and list them here. It would be awesome if you could also include a link to a YouTube video or audio link for the uninitiated. If you list more than 3, you will be openly mocked or ignored...likely both. No one has the time nor desire to sort through your favorite 20 artists, so get with the program and color inside the lines for once.

I'll post my 3 shortly, as work allows. But let's get this thing going!!

No song is for everyone...but sharing is fun for everyone. :)

Go, music! It's my favorite sound.

via a.espncdn.com

I'd like to take a moment to ask about a seriously important and omnipresent subject here at Red Reporter: music.

I'll post my 3 shortly, as work allows. But let's get this thing going!!

No song is for everyone...but sharing is fun for everyone. :)

Go, music! It's my favorite sound.