Last Game
The Cincinnati Reds started a 4-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates yesterday, and also finally caught up to the St. Louis Cardinals in number of games played. Thanks to their 7-5 win over the Pirates, the Reds are now tied for first place. Aaron Harang was good enough to get the win, although his single and then later scoring from 1st base in the 4th may have been more important than his mediocre start. It’s always fun to see the pitcher hit, and it’s even more fun to see the pitcher run. Hey, at least Harang’s faster than Bengie Molina.

Next Game
The Reds play the second game of the series against the Pirates tonight at 7:10pm EDT. Mike Leake will take on Paul Maholm.

Bailey to the Disabled List
Yesterday, the Reds placed Homer Bailey on the 15 day disabled list and called up reliever Enerio Del Rosario.

Bailey wasn’t exactly happy about the move, although being blindsided with it probably didn’t help.

“No one asked my opinion,” Bailey said. “I can understand missing one start. But I’m not a doctor.”

Considering Bailey is 24 years old, I can understand the Reds’ caution. As Redleg Nation points out, the number of pitchers–successful or not–still pitching at age 25 who first appeared in the majors at 21 is slim. Give the kid a chance to heal without doing further damage and maybe the Reds will have a chance of beating the odds.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
The Reds have won a 5-game winning streak at home, which is a season high.