Cincinnati Reds: Three keys to a postseason pursuit

1. The Reds have to get healthy.

The Cincinnati Reds haven’t had their full complement of players on the field at the same time all season long. Before the season kicked off, starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani was placed on the 10-day injured list. Hey was soon followed by the likes of Mike Moustakas, Nick Senzel, Robert Stephenson, Wade Miley, and now, Sonny Gray.

On top of that list of players who’ve gone on the IL, Moustakas, Senzel, Matt Davidson and Joey Votto all missed time due to concerns over COVID-19 related symptoms. Moustakas missed a few games this past week after being hit by a pitch and, most recently, a bad back has shelved outfielder Jesse Winker.

There are signs of life, however, as Winker has yet to be placed on the injured list and it appears as though Senzel may return the lineup this week. Every team, especially during this pandemic-shortened season, has dealt with injuries, but Cincinnati has had a rash of injuries to players they can ill-afford to be without.

While the absence of Sonny Gray will certainly impact the team’s, the right-hander is hopeful to pitch again this season. The move to send Gray to the IL was retroactive to Friday, meaning the Reds can recall their ace as early as next Monday. It’d be nice to have all hands on deck next week when Cincinnati will battle the Milwaukee Brewers and Minnesota Twins.