From John Fay:
Mike Leake was all smiles. He had just been told he was the fifth starter.
“Realisitically (sic), I didn’t think I had a chance,†he said. “But inside I thought I did. I guess realistically I did. I’m just thankful they had faith in me.â€Â
Leake isn’t sure when his first start will be. It will probably be April 11 against the Chicago Cubs.
I have to admit being shocked. They’ll have to find room for him on the 40 man; wonder if there will be any other surprises?
UPDATE (by Chad):
Yes Bill, there were other surprises:
Optioned to Triple-A Louisville: RHP Jared Burton, LHPs Travis Wood and Matt Maloney and INF Drew Sutton.
Assigned to Louisville: C Wilkin Castillo, INF Chris Burke.
Released: RHP Kip Wells
INF Aaron Miles and OF Wladimir Balentien were told they won’t make the team. Walt Jocketty said he would work to trade them.
Juan Francisco made the team as an extra infielder, as did Miguel Cairo. RHP Logan Ondrusek made it and essentially took Burton’s spot. The Reds will break camp with 11 pitchers.
Love the Leake move. Hate the fact that the Reds are going to designate Balentien for assignment. Seems like the waste of an asset. Love the fact that Jocketty was willing to cut bait on Aaron Miles; that’s a surprising and encouraging move.
Surprised to see Ondrusek make the team over Burton.
So what do you guys think? Why not keep Balentien and send Francisco to AAA? Oh well, what do I know?