The Reds Will Try to Keep the Train on the Tracks in Weekend Series with Washington

Apr 3, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder Shin-Soo Choo (17) is congratulated by second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) after scoring the winning run in the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Great American Ball Park. The Reds defeated the Angels 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

After only three games played there remains just one undefeated team in MLB. The Washington Nationals have picked up just where they left the regular season last year. Their pitching is superb only allowing one run in three games.

Of course the Reds are tied with the Cubbies atop the NL Central with a 2-1 series win over the Los Angeles Angels.
I am impressed overall with the club at this point, only having two major disappointments to bring up. The first is the unfortunate injury to Ryan Ludwick. Having walked twice and then separating his shoulder on the velcro-slide to third base has cost him perhaps three month of baseball.

Perhaps this is the time for Chris Heisey to come forward and be the offensive weapon we all know is inside him wanting to burst out. I am no fan of his batting high in the order. Batting second is the job of a man with a decent OBP such as Brandon Phillips. Although Phillips has spent the biggest portion of his time in the four-hole he is not your stereotypical cleanup hitter. Just my humble opinion, feel free to argue with me.

If I were the man filling out the lineup card at this point it would look like the following:
Choo 8
Phillips 4
Votto 3
Frazier 5
Bruce 9
Heisey 7
Hanigan 2
Cozart 6
pitcher

Back to my disappointments before I digress. Jay Bruce is killing the Reds continuity and offensive momentum. At times I feel as though I could strike him out myself. I almost threw my arm out thinking about it. On opening day he left eight ducks sitting on the pond. That won’t do and I don’t care who you are. I know it won’t last but I can’t hardly sit through the carnage.

The bullpen corps has been getting the job done. Starting pitching has been very good. Defense isn’t quite where you want it yet, but we are just starting the second series of the young season.

The most exciting news thus far is the play of Shin-Soo Choo. He has been doing his part, getting on base, leaving the yard, and not embarrassing himself in his newly acquired position. I don’t think many are surprised by his play, just thrilled with it.

The weekend series with the Nationals will be exciting to watch with all of the good pitching available on both squads. The two teams who many pick to play in the National League Championship Series in October or November (keeps getting later and later).