Last Game
Last night in Milwaukee the Reds did something they haven’t done for over a month: they lost a second consecutive game. That’s a losing streak, my friends, and it hasn’t happened since July 5. Bronson Arroyo was rolling until the wheels freakin’ fell off in the sixth inning and before you know it he’s given up 5 earned runs on 10 hits. Final score: Reds 3, Brewers 6

Next Game
The 3-game series continues tonight in Miller Park at 8:10 p.m. Johnny Cueto (RHP, 14-5, 2.52 ERA) tries to knock down Mike Fiers (RHP, 5-4, 1.88 ERA). The same match-up occurred on July 22. Cueto came out the winner in that one, 1-2.

Taking BP
Brandon Phillips was finally back in the line-up last night after missing 5 games with a tweaked calf muscle. He went 0-for-5, which maybe isn’t so surprising after an extended bench-sitting.

Strangely, Phillips had been penciled in to the line-up on Saturday but was a late scratch. However, he apparently wasn’t even in consideration for the line-up Sunday before making it in last night, and the reason why seems to be kind of hush-hush. Conspiracy? Or just Dusty Baker’s “wait till he’s ready and then wait another day” policy? Either way, I hope Phillips can find his swing better tonight.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
Right-handed reliever Nick Masset, who’s been out all season with a shoulder problem, is nearing his return to the bigs. He’s made 2 rehab appearances with the Arizona Reds and 1 with the Dayton Dragons. He would have started for the Bats on Sunday, but was scratched after a rain delay.