While the Reds seem to be doing fairly well in Spring Training, the Houston Astros are anything but. Currently, they have won 1 game. That’s right. One game out of 10. That’s not exactly the kind of hope that spring is eternally known for.

In positive news, Aaron Boone, who apparently is with the Astros now, had a hit recently. So there’s that.

How’s the manager Cecil Cooper taking the losing?

We talk about not being spectacular — in other words, routine.

Sounds…motivational. Good luck with that, Cecil!

In news sure to fill Reds fans hearts with optimism, Alex Gonzalez ran the bases. And he did it without any part of his leg coming detached and flying from his body. Way to go, Gonzo!

That’s what Spring Training is for, isn’t it? Making sure your shortstop can run the bases. That’s all a shortstop needs to do, after all.

Sure, there were fears that with the departure of both Ken Griffey Jr and Adam Dunn from the Reds that the team would have troubles scoring this year. If the first game of Spring Training means anything–and we all know it means everything–then the Reds offense is fine.

The Reds are currently halfway through playing their Grapefruit League opener against Tampa Bay. And none other than Jerry “Offensive Solution” Hairston, Jr. has hit a grand slam for the Reds.

It’s nice to have that problem fixed. Next up: canning the manager.