Sorry about the lack of posting this morning. I'm getting burnt out on Spring Training and I had more pressing matters for my real job. We'll try to avoid any such gaps during the season, though I'm sure they'll happen from time to time.
Today's lineup looks like a set of last chances to prove yourself. Homer Bailey is on the mound, but I think it's pretty clear that he's going to Louisville to start the season. He's had a good run, but he's squeezed out by the fact that the Reds have a full rotation for once.
Darnell McDonald and Laynce Nix appear to be competing to get the 5th outfielder spot. I have a feeling that Nix has the upperhand mainly because he bats from the wrong side of the plate. I'm not sure either is a difference maker on this team, but you never know what can happen when injuries start to pop up.
Of course, there's always the chance that Jerry Hairston Jr. will be cast as an outfielder and we'll see both Adam Rosales and Paul Janish make the squad. I would guess that only one will make it at this point, and both have a decent case. Janish is the superior glove at a position that requires some defense - especially if Gonzalez is still gimpy, which looks likely at this point. Rosales is the better hitter on a team that could use some offensive help. I won't be surprised by whomever gets picked by Baker.
The Reds face off against Roy Oswalt this afternoon. I'm not sure if they've ever faced him before. Can anyone remember if Oswalt has pitched against the Reds in his career?
See the lineups after the jump.
Game time is 1:05pm. The Reds are on the radio today, or you can check them out on Gameday.