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Reds vs. Cardinals. Two teams with a lot in common, actually. Both stood pat at the deadline. Both have been pretty abysmal lately. Both are looking up at the Pirates in the standings. Both really need this series.
Fortunately, the Reds are at home this time, and like nearly every series before it, this is the most important series of the season so far. The Reds begin with Bronson Arroyo on the hill, who has faced the Cardinals three times this year. He has a 3.79 ERA this year in those starts, but hasn't won and the Cardinals have 4 players who traditionally destroy Arroyo. Yeah, not even counting Molina. Matt Holliday, Jon Jay, and Carlos Beltran all have an OPS over 1.000 against Bronson, and Daniel Descalso (seriously) is right behind them at .920.
On the other hand, the Cardinals have the much less experienced Shelby Miller on the mound. The Reds do not have much success against Shelby Miller. They've faced him once and in 6 innings, only mustered up 1 hit and no runs. Might have to look at roughing up the Cardinals 'pen for this one.
The Reds' off day was helpful, in that everyone is rested and ready to go. Go Reds. They're my favorite team! Boo Cardinals! They're my least favorite team!