Game 4: Reds vs. Nationals (7:10 PM EDT) Bailey vs. Haren

So early in the season and we are already being treated to some big-time match-ups. The Reds just won two of three against the Angels, who are widely favored to be among the best of the AL this season. Now, in comes Washington, who are widely favored to be among the best in the NL this season. Hot dang!

Homer Bailey gets his first start of the season against Dan Haren. Homer had the best season of his career last year and Haren had his worst. Two ships passing in the night. Maybe because Homer is an avid hunter, he'll be able to take down Haren. But I think that's "heron" and I think they are endangered. *ABANDON METAPHOR*

The biggest thing about this game before it even gets started is that Ryan Hanigan is catching. Most importantly, that means that Devin Mesoraco isn't. I'm not sure what's going on here. Maybe Devin is sick or banged up or something, but if not, then this is a strange development. If Mesoraco is only going to catch for Mike Leake (I'm assuming he will at least get to catch for Mike Leake), then why is he even here? Hopefully we'll get some answers, because as early-season dramatic story lines go, this rates as a solid 6.8 or so.

Lineups