Blackout Night in America. This one is airing on FOX in most of the geographic United States.
The Reds won last night and thus avoided losing their first game after the Break. It was fun, but I tend to think that's roughly all you can say about it - momentum, blowmentum. The Cardinals are getting healthier, with Berkman activated today (though not in the starting lineup). Wainwright is getting further from his surgery, while their rotation is just a trade away from replacing Chris Carpenter. All of this to say, there are no laurels to rest on.
Luckily, the Reds' pitching staff has been assuring pretty much every game will be at least competitive. In July, which is suddenly half-over, they've allowed their lowest ERA by month (2.55) and their lowest OPS-against (.618).
Keep pounding those vitamins.
Lineups and bullpen log, after the click.
Lineups
REDS (48-38)
Zack Cozart (R) SS
Drew Stubbs (R) CF
Joey Votto (L) 1B
Brandon Phillips (R) 2B
Jay Bruce (L) RF
Ryan Ludwick (R) LF
Scott Rolen (R) 3B
Devin Mesoraco (R) C
Mike Leake (R) P
CARDINALS (46-41)
Rafael Furcal (S) SS
Jon Jay (L) CF
Matt Holliday (R) LF
Carlos Beltran (S) RF
Allen Craig (R) 1B
Yadier Molina (R) C
David Freese (R) 3B
Skip Schumaker (L) 2B
Kyle Lohse (R) P
Bullpen notes:
- Bill Bray has made just 3 appearances in 18 games since returning. I still think he's a valuable cog in the bullpen when healthy, but I wonder if that spot could go to a position player until he is.