Last Game
The Cincinnati Reds had their game against the Seattle Mariners rained out yesterday. Bronson Arroyo had been scheduled to start, but was a late scratch due to continuing to suffer from the fifth annual flu-like symptoms.

Next Game
Today the Reds hope for better, more climate-appropriate, weather when they send Mike Leake to mound against Gio Gonzalez and the Oakland A’s. Game-time is 4:05pm EDT, and the game will be broadcast on 700 WLW.

Pitching Depth Being Tested
All throughout last season, the Reds displayed a lot of depth in their starting rotation. When one man went down, another one just as capable stepped in to take his spot. This depth is being tested as spring training winds down and the regular season begins.

Bronson Arroyo is battling the flu and has missed a start. He will likely be healthy in time for his start in the second game of the season, but Johnny Cueto will not. Cueto left a second start in a row early this weekend due to forearm pain. This is often the precursor of Tommy John surgery, and Reds fans are understandably worried. Yesterday, he was examined in Cincinnati.

“Everything is structurally fine,” Reds general manager Walt Jocketty said. “The only thing they found is mild inflammation in his shoulder. The recommendation of Dr. Kremchek is to shut him down until it subsides, then get him back on a throwing program.”

The plan is for Cueto to stop throwing for seven to 10 days, which means he’s likely to start the season on the disabled list. This also means that the battle for rotation spots among Homer Bailey, Travis Wood, and Mike Leake is over. All three will be starting with the team, reducing the starting depth to Sam LeCure and Matt Maloney.

What to Say to Sound Smart at the Water Cooler
Despite initial reports, Reds relief pitcher Jose Arredondo is out of options.