Boxscore

In a what’s clearly a harbinger of the year to come, the Reds completely bit the big one during an exhibition game against their double-A minor league club, the Carolina Mudcats.

Bronson Arroyo and Francisco Cordero both continued to suck, heading into the season opener Monday. Arroyo allowed 6 runs in 3 innings, while Cordero allowed 3 runs in 1 inning.

Although the present Reds managed 4 runs in 9 innings, the future Reds absolutely crushed them in offensive production.

At least Reds fans have something to look forward to. Sure, the present Reds are nothing good, but look at what’s coming in a few years! Dusty Baker won’t be the manager!

Via Deadspin, I saw this particular gem out of Chicago. Apparently, they honored Kerry Wood’s time with the Chicago Cubs so much that they’re not going to assign his locker to anyone else.

In defense of the Cubs, the decision *is* cheaper than giving him the money he wanted. Also, more injury-proof.

The Pirates seem to be leading the charge in the central to get their 25-man roster set. Hey, it’s nice to be first in something, even when there isn’t a trophy or a gaudy ring.

Relievers Sean Burnett, Craig Hansen, and Donnie Veal have made the club. Donnie Veal is a Rule 5 pick from the Cubs, I believe, and he’s been good enough not to be offered back.

The Pirates have one spot left, and it’s down to a match between Evan Meek and Jesse Chavez to see who will be in the dugout when Paul Maholm starts opening day.

Not That It Ever Was

The Cincinnati Reds and the Houston Astros have hooked up. The Reds didn’t have a spot for utility man Jeff Keppinger, while the Astros have a soft spot for light-hitting, injury-prone middle infielders. Let’s see if they can collect the entire set!

Keppinger will likely be platooning with Geoff Blum at third base for the Astros, taking the role of former Red Aaron Boone. The Reds will receive the always-awesome “Player To Be Named Later” who is unlikely to play any position for the year.

For the Reds, this means they must think either Alex Gonzalez is healthy enough to be trusted at shortstop or that Adam Rosales or Paul Janish can do the job. Or maybe Kepp made one too many pointed jabs at manager Dusty Baker’s “managerial” skills.