Last Game
The Astros struck first with a 2-run home run in the fourth inning. The Reds did put a run on the board but they were still trailing going into the ninth. It wasn’t looking good until Drew Stubbs came up with a man on and knocked the ball outta there. There’s always someone being the hero, isn’t there? The Reds ended up beating the Astros in the second game of the series, 4-2

Next Game
The Reds go for the 3-game sweep tonight at 8:05 p.m. Homer Bailey (RHP, 9-6, 3.74 ERA) takes on Bud Norris (RHP, 5-8, 5.33 ERA). Bailey has been on fire lately, while Norris has been walking people.

It’s Not Goodbye; It’s See You Later
During the game last night, the Astros announced that they had traded Wandy Rodriguez to the Pittsburgh Pirates for left-handed pitcher Rudy Owens, outfielder Robbie Grossman (a particularly valuable piece to give away), and left-handed pitcher Colton Cain. Houston is helping out with Rodriguez’s $13M salary.

It’s sort of a strange move, since the Pirates starters have been pretty solid lately. But Kevin Correia and Jeff Karstens have relief experience and could offer a little insurance against injury and fatigue. Plus, there aren’t that many good bats available right now.

Rodriguez’s next start is scheduled for Saturday when the Pirates will be in Houston playing the Astros. That ought to be dramatic. Meaning, the emotions will be dramatic; the game’s more likely to be a blow-out. Five days after that is the Pirates’ off-day before starting the series in Cincinnati.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
The Reds are 6-2 since July 16 when Joey Votto left the line-up for arthroscopic knee surgery. At this rate, he’ll have to earn his job back.