Let’s recap today’s titanic struggle….
FINAL
Cincinnati 5
Los Angeles (AL) 4
W: A. Chapman (1-0)
L: S. Downs (0-1)
BOX SCORE
POSITIVES
–Mat Latos had a very nice first start of the year. 6.2 innings. 3 runs. And, honestly, he pitched better than his line. Really looking forward to seeing him all year.
–Phillips certainly showed something from the cleanup spot tonight.
–Votto, Joey. Good time for his first hit tonight.
–Chris Heisey responded very well in his first start. On base twice. I’ll take that every day.
— Sure felt good to get a win tonight. These have been a great couple of games. It’s good to see the Reds hanging with another excellent team early.
NEGATIVES
–I get that it’s standard procedure. But keeping Chapman for the 7-8-9 hitters makes no sense. I’m just going to have to accept that I will never agree with Baker about bullpen management. He’s not going to think outside the box. Ever.
NOT-SO-RANDOM THOUGHTS
–I will say I was happy with how Dusty constructed the lineup today. It’s not what I’d do, but it was pretty rational.
–Reds go for the series win tomorrow. Two of three from the Angels would be a great way to start the year.
–Joey Votto is my favorite baseball player.