Boxscore

Last night, thanks to an excellent start from Homer Bailey, the Cincinnati Reds returned to their record to a season-high 30 games over .500.

Bailey has been pitching much better of late, certainly placing himself into the consideration for a playoff rotation spot. Over 7 1/3 innings, Bailey allowed 1 run on 4 hits and 2 walks. He struck out 4. The outing improved his record to a career-high 12 wins. He joins fellow starters Johnny Cueto, Mat Latos, and Bronson Arroyo with at least 12 wins.

The offense was held largely in check by the Chicago Cubs except for one inning. In that inning, the 6th, Joey Votto, Ryan Ludwick, and Jay Bruce all walked to load the bases. The next batter, Scott Rolen, flew out to the center fielder. It was a hit that was deep enough for a normal runner to attempt to tag up and score from 3rd base, but Votto barely budged. That surgically repaired knee was not going to be tested.

Thankfully, it didn’t have to be. The next batter, Ryan Hanigan, came through with a bases-clearing double that gave the Reds all the runs they’d need. Plus, it allowed Votto to basically walk home.

The win reduced the Reds’ magic clinching number to 4. Mike Leake will attempt to reduce that further tonight when he starts against Chris Rusin at 8:05pm.