When the Cincinnati Reds began their season, they were faced with a lot of injuries.

Johnny Cueto missed the first month, Bronson Arroyo had mononucleosis, and it felt like every other member of the team was dropping every other game.

Now that the 2011 season is wrapping up, the injury monster is hungry again.

Today it took a bite out of Dontrelle Willis’ back, making him unable to make his scheduled start Sunday.

In addition to Willis, the team also has several other players in a day-to-day state.

Cincinnati catchers Ramon Hernandez (bruised lower left leg) and Ryan Hanigan (back spasms) are banged up. Miguel Cairo has a sore shoulder. Johnny Cueto was knocked out of Monday’s start by a strained right lat.

And that neglects to mention infielder Chris Valaika who will have season-ending surgery to repair a torn ACL on Monday.

It does bring a certain sense of circularity to the season, though. The Reds are limping towards the finish line, much like they limped out of Spring Training.