With a 48-51 record, the Cincinnati Reds fin themselves in fourth place in the National League Central. When we look at their divisional record of 29-22, we can wonder why they are only in fourth place. That gets explained as we see they had just a 6-12 record in interleague play, and have gone just 2-7 against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Improve either or both of those numbers and this team could be contending for a NL central title. They have spent 25 days in first place, and this remains a pretty good team on paper at least.
The Reds offense has scored 454 runs on 884 hits. Those numbers are among the best of the 16 teams in the senior league. The hit total is fifth best, and proves that this team knows how to get on base. Their team batting average is .257, also fifth best in their league. They have hit 107 home runs and that total is fourth best. Reds hitters have struck out 744 times, and drawn 329 walks.
The pitching staff has surrendered 428 runs on 833 hits. The staff ERA is 4.08 and that is the fourth worst staff number in the NL. Reds pitchers have struck out 676 hitters, and issued 343 walks. Both of those numbers rank near the bottom of the NL. This is a team in need of starting pitching help, but the bullpen looks pretty good. Their closer, Francisco Cordero, has converted 19 saves and his era is 2.81.
We have to remember that this is a relatively young team that is one or two years in a rebuilding project. They have made great strides over the past few years, and with a little more help on the pitching staff could be a very good team rather soon.
Related Links:
• Cincinnati Reds news and notes • The Business of Major League Baseball •Joshua Lobdell.com
