Boxscore

It was bound to happen. After an improbable number of good starts in a row–with an ERA of 2.08 over his last 19 starts–Bad-rroyo finally made his return.

Yes, Bronson Arroyo was bad last night. It wasn’t Bad-rroyo’s triumphant return, though, because, for the second night in a row, the Reds won in extra innings. Arroyo allowed 5 runs in 6 innings, all earned.

Despite the crappy starting pitching, things were actually looking good for the Reds. The offense had two 3-run innings, thanks to home runs from Jonny Gomes and Ryan Hanigan. Then the bullpen had a hiccup.

Logan Ondrusek started the 8th inning looking strong, despite his comical tallness. He struck out the first two Marlins, but then let things fall apart as the game was quickly tied on a Cody Ross homer.

But the rest of the bullpen didn’t give up, and neither did the Reds’ offense. The relievers never allowed another run, and Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips drove in a couple in the top of the 11th to give the Reds the lead. Francisco Cordero finished the game for the save.

The Reds are on a bit of a hot streak, having won 3 in a row and 5 of their last 6. They are in second place, 1/2 games behind the St. Louis Cardinals.