Reds win

The Reds don't seem to be very good this year. It's the same old poor defense, lack of hitting, and general lackadaisical play that has driven us crazy over the last couple of years. The difference this year? The Reds are actually winning. They can't hit a lick, but the starters have been solid and the bullpen has been lights out. Volquez has been maddening, but kept us in games, Arroyo has been solid, and Harang is even showing some emotion! But boy has the bullpen been good. The formula seems to be 6 IP from the starter, Rhodes, Weathers, and Cordero, who hasn't blown a save yet.

On this ten game road trip, they're now 4 and 2. Most of us probably would have taken four wins for the whole road trip based on last year's record on the road and in the division. Maybe this is the year we've got the 'Stros number? If the Reds start to hit (besides Owings, that is) the Reds could actually start looking good as a contender. One more with Houston, then on to Chicago for three with the Cubs (weather permitting). How we do against the Cubs may be a good indicator of our chances this year.