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This seems like a pretty even pitching match up today. Chris Carpenter is 5-3 and Bronson Arroyo is 8-7. I know, I know, you're saying that Arroyo is clearly the better pitcher since he has 8 wins compared to Carpenter's 5, but I'm willing to give Carpenter the benefit of the doubt since he was injured. He'd probably have around 8 wins just like Arroyo if he had been healthy.
The Reds REALLY need Goodroyo to be on the mound today. A win today will mean a series win, putting the Reds just one game behind the Cardinals and potentially the Brewers as well. And with Carpenter opposing him on the mound, Arroyo is going to need to be on his game, something he hasn't done much of over his last 4 starts. I'm not confident, but the good news is that Arroyo has a way of mixing in a good start when you least expect it. So, do you least expect it today? Because it would help if you did.
I want a win today more than any game this season. After excellent outings by Homer Bailey on Friday and Micah Owings yesterday, it'd be a shame to waste a shot at winning this important series. If they want to be legit, they eventually have to stop lingering around .500. I say, start today!