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The Reds narrowly avoid Strasburg in this series, but that's cold comfort. When we last saw Gio Gonzalez, he held the Reds to 2 hits and no runs through 7 innings. He's been just as good virtually every start since then. He's talented enough to be an elite pitcher in the National League, but there are a few things that don't make sense about his performance so far. After leading the AL in walks issued last season, he's almost a walk per nine innings below his lowest mark. He's yet to give up a home run in 36.2 innings. His worst start was against the Cubs. Hopefully, Great American will be the perfect setting to do some claims adjustin'.
At this point in this season, this is one of the bigger mismatches the Reds have faced. His mound mate, Mike Leake, is currently Reds most embattled starting pitcher. You might argue Homer is coming to meet him there, but about the only thing Leake has going for him to date is a low walk rate. That suggests he can still roughly find his spots, but his touch has not returned. Up in the zone is still a strike, but it's the worst kind for Leake.
Tweet the game and win the game. Go Reds!
Lineups
REDS
Zack Cozart (R) SS
Drew Stubbs (R) CF
Joey Votto (L) 1B
Brandon Phillips (R) 2B
Jay Bruce (L) RF
Scott Rolen (R) 3B
Ryan Ludwick (R) LF
Devin Mesoraco (R) C
Mike Leake (R) P
NATS
Ian Desmond (R) SS
Roger Bernadina (L) LF
Ryan Zimmerman (R) 3B
Adam LaRoche (L) 1B
Bryce Harper (L) RF
Danny Espinosa (S) 2B
Rick Ankiel (L) CF
Wilson Ramos (R) C
Gio Gonzalez (R) P