Now, not unlike the All Star Game and Spring training - but without the sense of hope and fanfare - you just hope no one gets injured. Reds relievers have pitched the 6th most innings in the majors, while probably ranking in the upper third in baseball in effectiveness - depending on how you evaluate bullpen performance. But the high innings count is taking its toll. Over the last two weeks, Reds relievers collectively have pitched around replacement level, with the second-worst relief ERA in the majors: 5.49. For a team replacing its closer and possibly its most lethal fireman, this is an unsettling development.
The way to bring down down bullpen innings, and to have a better team, is excellence in starting pitching. Where does Dontrelle Willis fit into this? Well, the Reds need all the quality starts they can get next season and Willis would probably sign for cheap. He could take Chapman's place as lefty in the bullpen, with upside as a spot starter. Would you give him a guaranteed, incentivized contract?
LINEUP:
Sappelt LF
Renteria SS
Votto 1B
Phillips 2B
Bruce RF
Stubbs CF
Hernandez C
Frazier 3B
Willis LHP