Lets talk...firing staff:
As we head into the All-Star break, we've had a lot to ponder over the past week. On Monday, the Reds decided to fire pitching coach Mark Riggins. No doubt our pitching is atrocious, but this was his first season with that title. We have the league's worst ERA at 5.51. We all get that an overall ERA that high isn't going to win you many games, but can we not look at the bigger issue? Bryan Price is making these decisions to have unsteady pitchers come in at the most inopportune times. And guess what? They usually end up giving up the game. I think Mark Riggins was used as a scape goat, and the real problem lies in Price. I've said it once, and I'll say it again; Price has a pitching background! Not too long ago he held the same title. I feel bad for Riggins because he's been in the Reds organization for many years as a minor league pitching coordinator, and he didn't even get one damn season.
Lets talk...first half:
32-54. That's our record, and it ain't pretty. We are last in the Central division, which is usually a spot reserved for the Brewers. I've tried to stay positive because it is a rebuilding year and sucking was expected, but it is difficult to watch a losing team. It's not like there haven't been shining moments though. I mean the last two games we beat the Cubs who have been on fire this year...just not as of late. I'm trying to stay POSITIVE I said. Cozart hit three homers in each of the three games against the Cubbies, that's exciting! And hey, lets not forget the big news this week: Adam Duvall is going to
the All-Star Game! Sure he may not play, but by god he made the NL roster. That's right, the Reds have their left fielder on the All-Star roster. For all these analysts that are saying he doesn't belong, screw you! The man has 22 homers on the season. That may be the highlight of his season, but we have been dogged on for the entire year. Can you give us a break on this one, please? Do I think Duvall is one of the most elite outfielders in baseball? Meh, probably not, but I'm glad he made the cut. It's his first All-Star appearance and I say enjoy it! Hell who knows, he may wind up in the Home Run Derby, which he did say he would love to do. Wouldn't that be a story? "Reds bats take home the trophy in two straight Home Run Derbies". I'm a little ahead of myself, but what else do I have to look forward to? Besides college football! Which just so happens to be exactly 50 days away :)
