Boxscore

Despite trailing early on, the Reds came back to win authoritatively last night. They beat the Indians in the first game of the series, 1-7.

Johnny Cueto started and ended for the Reds. In 9.0 innings pitched he allowed 1 run on 6 hits and 0 walks. Damn.

The bench all had the dreaded flu-like symptoms last night, so the line-up looked a little funny and not a single pinch-hitter made it into the game. The much-despised Wilson Valdez, for example, was hitting second.

Fortunately, he did very well for the team, going 3-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored, which probably means we’ll see him batting second again. I’ll leave it up to you to decide whether that part is fortunate or not.

Chris Heisey went 2-for-4. Joey Votto went 2-for-4 with a walk and 3 RBI. Brandon Phillips when 2-for-5 with an RBI. In fact, everyone had a hit last night except for Jay Bruce, and even he had an RBI.

The win brings the Reds’ record to 33-27. Thanks to the Pirates losing last night, the Reds are again in sole possession of first place in the NLC. The Reds and Indians match up again tonight at 7:10 p.m. Mat Latos (4-2, 4.85 ERA) will be filling in for the flu-stricken Mike Leake. He’ll go against Derek Lowe (7-4 3.72 ERA).