Cincinnati Reds

n as much media attention or polarized a fan base as the Pete Rose gambling scandal.  Hardcore Cincinnati Reds or Pete Rose fans will have you believe that Rose, because of his performance on the field as a player, should be allowed admittance into the Hall of Fame.  Rose was undoubtedly one of the greatest hitters of his generation.  He holds countless major league records.  His on-field legacy is undeniable and no one can take that away from him.  Those opposing his induction argue that Rose, as a major league manager, wagered on the outcome of baseball games, including those he was involved in, and thus violated the most basic and ethical rules of the sport.  As it stands right now, Rose is still banished from the sport and there are no indications he will be invited back any time soon.

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Let’s begin with the Cincinnati Reds.  This team continues to sputter along and I just don’t understand it.  They are at a very in between stage right now and are not making a move one-way or the other.  This team has some wonderful pieces in place.  Brandon Phillips is a stud at second base, Adam Dunn can hit 40 homers, Ryan Freel is a spark plug and Ken Griffey Jr. can still play a little bit.  Aaron Harang is a top-notch pitcher who has continued to stay under the radar somehow and Bronson Arroyo can win some games.  Chad Cordero is a very productive closer and they have a solid bullpen other than him.  But then they sit around and play people like Scott Hatteberg, Alex Gonzalez and Edwin Encarnacion.  I don’t get it, either sell high on your studs and get some prospects and more young players or you go out and spend the money and really make your team a contender.  I don’t get it; they have had this core of players for a few years now and have done nothing with it.  Boggles my mind, I guess that’s why they are the

Continue reading "Part II: NL Central"