We're now into the second month of the season and if you were told the Reds would be without it's top starter, left fielder, and catcher for much of the season and still be 3 games over 500 and three games out of first place, would you take it? My guess is you would.
Still, some things have to change if this team is going to climb the standings in the National League Central. First is their record versus teams with a winning record. Right now it's 5-12. Huge red flag for a team predicted to win it's division.
Second, Zach Cozart. I almost hate to single out one guy, but he's got to start picking it up at the plate. The Cardinals with its almost American League style lineup, can get away with a weak-hitting short stop, but the Reds can't. He says he's comfortable hitting second. Says he hit there throughout the minor leagues, but he continues to get behind in the count and at the mercy of big league pitchers. Thankfully his defense has been sharp, but this team can't afford to have it's short stop hitting below .200.
Third, while this team isn't leading the world in strikeouts like the Astros and Braves, who rank 1-2 respectfully, the Reds are 5th. This team needs to put the ball in play more. Especially at crucial times.
I'm about to sound like a broken record as I've harped on this before. The team is hitting .271 (11th) with 118 runs scored (3rd) with runners in scoring position. However, they're not hitting in the clutch. With 2 out and runners in scoring position Cincinnati ranks 23rd in batting (.195) and 20th in runs scored (35).
Case in point. After trailing 3-0 in last night's game with Atlanta, a team with a winning record by the way, the Reds pulled within a run and had Brandon Phillips on 3rd with 1 out. Todd Frazier needed to put the bat on the ball, he struck out. Versus a team like the Braves, you have to drive that run in and tie the game. It changes the whole complexion of the ball game. Instead, Atlanta escaped still with the lead and then added on en route to a 7-4 win.
The addition of Shin-Soo Choo was supposed to improve this offense. And he's done his job by getting on base (.467 OPB). It's up to his teammates to find a way to drive him in. After all, his defense in center field is a downgrade over Drew Stubbs and you can't give away runs if you're not going to make up for it on the offensive end.
Now, it's a long season. Remember at the All-Star break last year, the Reds were in second place to Pittsburgh. We all know what happened from there. So, while this team certainly needs to pick-up their level and need to do it soon. It's not all doom and gloom at the moment.
Besides, Johnny Cueto, Ryan Ludwick and Ryan Hanigan have to return sometime don't they?
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