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A week ago, Homer Bailey thought he might not start another game this season. The Reds were trying him out in the bullpen in Louisville as potential long-relief help down the stretch with the big league squad. Now he's making an emergency start for the suspended Johny Cueto. Bailey had been on a rehab assignment since the end of July where he has pitched well. As you all know, if he is healthy and in control, Bailey could start in just about anybody's rotation. The problem has been inconsistency and disastrous starts. If he can pitch like he was pitching in Louisville, he should be able to get the Reds through today and may even find himself taking some starts away from Mike Leake. If not, it'll be interesting to see what the Reds do with him.
I don't expect to see Scott Rolen in the lineup today. Even with the off-day tomorrow and the off-day last Thursday, I figure Rolen will get a little extra rest. I expect to see Miguel Cairo in the lineup unless Juan Francisco is still around. Hopefully either move won't prevent them from sweeping. I understand the philosophy of just trying to win series, but at this point, in a tight pennant race, we know that every game matters. With only 45 games left, I'd hate to see the Reds continue to mail in Sunday games and come up short in the end by just a game or two.
I'll be at the game today. They are introducing fantasy campers on the field before the game. I'll be the out of shape white guy standing with a bunch of other out of shape white guys. Cheer loudly for me!
Go Reds!