Apparently inspired by the early start to the season, the Dusty Baker and the Reds have gone ahead and announced the Opening Day starter before there have even been any spring training games, per se. From John Fay:

“After much deliberation and talking to the guys, after talking to Bryan (Price), we’re going to open with Volquez,” Baker said.

Bronson Arroyo will start the second game, followed by Johnny Cueto in Game 3.

“You want to go hard, soft,” Baker said. “You want to break up Volqie and Cueto. You don’t want them to try to out radar-gun each other. Whoever the fifth starter is going to be — other than Homer (Bailey) — is going to be softer. If Bronson is No. 1, you’ve got two softer guys back-to-back.”

Here at RHM we’ve had our share of fun at Arroyo’s expense, but in all seriousness, he’s an innings-eater, not the number 1, which pretty much did leave it down to Volquez or Cueto (or the mystery number 1 that I kept hoping Jocketty would surprise us with), so I guess there wasn’t much point in waiting. Plus, there’s the bonus of:

• Letting Volquez get used to the idea
• Letting all the pitchers just get ready and not worry about it (except the ones competing for 4 and 5, of course)
• Letting Opening Day activity planners put in their order for a parade float featuring a bust of Volquez made entirely of carnations

And getting the fans all the more excited about the end of this dreary snow and the beginning of baseball season. Good luck, Volquie!

Reds Star Outfielder Jay Bruce to Host Second Annual Youth Baseball Camp

CINCINNATI, OHIO – Cincinnati Reds Star Outfielder Jay Bruce announces details for his second annual youth baseball camp. The Jay Bruce Baseball Camp presented by CBTS and Fifth Third Bank in partnership with the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum is scheduled for July 25-26 at Prasco Park from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Once again, Jay will be on site for both days to direct the activities of the camp and provide instruction. The camp features several of the top prep and collegiate coaches from the Cincinnati area and is open to boys and girls ages 6 to 14.

Campers experience various stations, specializing in fundamental skills and the team concept of baseball. Individual groups are small to assure each camper gets maximum personalized instruction.

Campers receive an autographed camp team photo with Jay, a camp T-shirt, camp goodie bag and the opportunity to win additional contests and prizes. The cost of the camp is $174.

Additional camp partners include Fox Sports Ohio.

Campers are encouraged to register early, as spots are limited.

Additional information and registration is available at www.JayBruceCamp.com or call 888-389-CAMP(2267).