Last Game
It’s J-O-E-Y. My MVP has a second name. It’s V-O-T-T-O.

Okay, it doesn’t quite fit the old bologna jingle, but it’s true. Joey Votto showed his MVP colors again yesterday, rescuing the Reds from one of their worst pitching collapses all year. They got out of the gate early against the San Francisco Giants, building a 10-1 lead thanks, in part, to 2 home runs from Votto, but the pitching staff couldn’t hold it. Just like months ago back in Atlanta. The difference this time is that the Reds came back. Paul Janish drove in the tying run, and in the 12th, Votto drove in the go-ahead win for the 12-11 win.

Next Game
The Reds have a desperately needed off-day today before returning home to host the Chicago Cubs. And they need it. Between the injuries to Brandon Phillips and Laynce Nix and the exhausted and ineffective pitching staff, a day off can do nothing but good. Johnny Cueto will start for the Reds and Tom Gorzelanny will start for the Cubs. Game-time is 7:10pm EDT.

25th Anniversary Celebration of Hit #4,192
The Reds have secured permission from Major League Baseball to officially honor Pete Rose on the 25th anniversary of his hit that broke Ty Cobb’s career record.

Details for the events on September 11 have not been divulged, but Rose will likely be present on the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. That’s one way to have the stadium full for when the Pirates come to town.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
In the win yesterday, Jonny Gomes finally hit his 100th career home run. He hit his 99th on July 19.