Friday, August 10, 2012

Personal Opinion of Jamie Ramsey

*Summary, only read if you do not know about the situation.*
Almost everyone that's a Reds fan and even some that aren't read or heard about the Twitter ordeal including Jamie Ramsey (@JamieBlog on Twitter) and (www.BetterOffRed.com). and @DaRedsWinPOW on Twitter got in an argument on Twitter. At first, it looked like nothing, just disagreeing about Tommy Johns Surgery. Eventually, DaRedsWinPOW called Ramsey a "Long-haired que*r" and a "Dusty Dick Rider." Ramsey then sent a DM to the other account, wanting to beat him up.

Jamie Ramsey is fantastic as the Reds  Media Relations and he is my inspiration for what I do. (Twitter,Blog) He is the best Reds fan I know. I have met him numerous times at RedsFest, and I should say he is a great person. I understand he made a mistake, and I do not condone this action, but I am "backing him up."

Now, I know making a blog post about it isn't helping to put it in the past, but let's do that now. Let's worry and support the Reds, and forget all this. Everybody makes mistakes, and Jamie Ramsey doesn't often.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Why are the Reds taking such a long time for Votto to get back?

The Reds are taking their jolly good time getting Votto back


the last time Joey Votto played in a game was July 15th, 2012. He went 2 for 3 with a double as the Reds won against the Cardinals 4-2. After that game, the Reds were on a 6 game winning streak. 

The next day, the Reds and Votto agreed on knee surgery, which would put him out 3-4 weeks. As of August 8th, he still is not back. You could say the Reds are taking their time, which they are. Due to Votto's injury, his projected HR is only 21, which is lower for Joey. He is also only projected to play in 127 games. Since Votto has been gone, the Reds record is 16-6, with the game on the 8th being played right now. So there is no need to rush Votto back.

Certain Reds players have stepped in the former MVP's absence. Some players being Scott Rolen, Ryan Ludwick and Xavier Paul. Ludwick has increased his average almost 40 points in the past few months, while Rolen having clutch hits and getting on base. Xavier Paul was called up when Votto went on the disabled list, and he has proved that he deserves to stay up. Paul's average is .375/.423 OBP (9 for 24). He also has 2 doubles and 3 RBI's in 24 AB's. He mainly lives in the PH role, but has starts from time to time. 

So, get healthy Votto, we are rocking and rolling without you.


Saturday, August 4, 2012

Latos takes the game into own hand, Rivalry brewing

Something may or may not happen during tonight's game.

Mat Latos hit a 2-R HR during yesterdays game. Yes the pitcher. Latos slammed a 2-R shot to left field to extend the Reds lead to 3-0, which would hold the rest of the game. 

In the 9th inning, when Aroldis Chapman was pitching, and Andrew McCutchen was batting, Chapman beamed McCutchemn with a 101 MPH fastball on the shoulder. McCutchen starred down Chapman, walking slowly to first. Chapman and the Reds would win soon after 3-0. 


Post game, McCutchen said quote: "*expletive* them. *expletive* them" speaking of the Reds. Numerous fans between the 2 teams  have been bickering in person or social media such as Twitter. We will see how the Pirates respond, if they do, on the, in my opinion, unintentional hit-by-pitch. We will have to see, if the Pirates decided to hit somebody, who it is since Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips are out of the line-up due to injury. We will have to see. 

I couldn't find any pictures of Chapman hitting Andrew, so here's a video and the picture before the hit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSS20zemaPE

Friday, August 3, 2012

Mid-game update: Cozart 2-2, Heisey 1-1 w/a ITP HR, Reds leading 1-0

Cozart and Heisey are dynamite.

Cozart has hit 2 very nice singles, but not scoring or driving anybody in. Heisey hit an inside the park HR off the wall. The Reds lead 1-0 as Latos has been dominate. 

Full blog post coming at end of game. 


Sunday, July 29, 2012

Why Dernard Span has recently become out of the question for the Reds

Dernard Span has recently become out of the question.

MLBTradeRumors has announced that in exchange for Dernard Span, the Twins want a MLB starting pitcher. I see no way no how the Reds will do this.

As of July 29th, the Reds have used the same 5 starting pitchers the entire season. The staff's starting pitchers claim 41 of the Reds 61 wins (an overall 41-26 record for starters.) 67% of the wins. Nothing is wrong with the Reds current rotation, and actually they are on a huge roll, the Reds winning 10 straight.

 Leake has the worst record as a starter on the Reds roster, (4-6) but there is little to no chance Leake is a trade item. Bailey is the most likely out of the rotation to be traded, but I highly doubt it.

 Span is not an essential, so I think the Reds just threw out all thoughts on acquiring Span. 


Reds sweep 3 straight teams, on 10 game Win streak results in bald Marty.

The Reds just went perfect.


Not a perfect game, or a perfect season but a perfect road trip as Dusty Baker would say. The Reds have won 10 in a row, sweeping the 3 straight teams.

Marty Brenneman (earlier in the season) stated if the Reds ever win 10 straight he will shave his head. Well god darn, they have. Here are a few pictures of what Marty might look like without his hair: 


Saturday, July 28, 2012

Why the Reds will get Juan Pierre

Why the Reds WILL Juan Pierre

I believe the Reds will get Juan Pierre because of some simple reasons.

#1. He's cheap. 
Pierre's contract is only $500k (started in minors start of year) and he is getting up there in age. The Phillies wouldn't ask for too much, compared to Victorino or former trade-bait Cole Hamels. The Phillies wanted Ondrusek for Victorino, and I can only imagine that Pierre would be considerably cheaper than that.

#2. He has speed.

When the average MLB fan thinks of Pierre he will either say "Who?" or "That fast guy?". Juan Pierre is well known for his speed, and it isn't over talked. As he is no Billy Hamilton, Pierre has considerable speed, comparable to Drew Stubbs, give or take. Pierre's speed has declined a little due to age.

#3. Top of-the-line up batter.

his whole career, Pierre has batted 1st, 2nd, 7th or 8th. He is fast and he gets on base. Alot. he makes good contact, and would love seeing him lead off games for the Reds, getting on base to have Votto, Phillips, Ludwick and Frazier to drive him in. I could also see Phillips and Pierre becoming good friends. I don't know, maybe that's just me. 

#4. He's batting .300+

If Pierre joined the Reds he would be only the 3rd Red with a .300+ average. (Votto, Paul). Juan is batting .305 thus far, and no, he doesn't have 6 AB like Quentin earlier in the year (had a .456 AVG). Pierre's career average is .297, and he is in no way a power hitter, but he does make solid contact. He doesn't drive in a considerable amount of batters because he leads off usually. He is a run type of guy. He would fill the outfield and lead-off situation at the same time. 

It's a win-win.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Will the Reds REALLY trade at the deadline or do they have the answer?

Will the Reds REALLY trade at the deadline? 

The Reds have won 7 straight and 14 out of their last 16. they have also just played one of the worst teams in the MLB right now. So, do the Reds trade at the deadline or not?

Some names associated with the Reds at this point are Dernard Span, Juan Pierre, Shane Victorino, and Hunter Pence. 3/4th being Phillies players. The Reds are interested in top of the line up batters, and are looking for a CF, becoming annoyed by Stubbs under performance. 

Do the Reds possibly already have the answer?

Xavier Paul, a sign and call up in response of Votto's injury has a .444 BA, 2 RBI, a double and a steal in 9 AB (6 games). He went 3-5 w/ 2 RBI in his first start with the Cincinnati Reds. Is he possibly the long term answer for the CF situation?

If the Reds do not trade at the deadline, and Paul continues to perform, I believe he should stay with the pro team. I'm not saying that Votto should go down and Paul should stay up, but why should a young successful bat be sent down just because the roster spot he was replacing is back. Who can honestly improve the MLB team better? Xavier Paul or Miguel Cairo? (Cairo batting .145 BA w/ 6 RBI in 76 AB) Don't give the he can teach the players tips excuse, because shouldn't he be in AAA if you honestly believe that? MLB players know how to hit.

In the end, with the Reds experiencing a year of the rookie, I think we see our fix right in front of us. Xavier Paul.

Stubbs and Reds continue rolling with 7 game win streak despite Votto in line-up and Xavier's regular season opening game set.

Stubbs high-fives Cozart after homering against Houston.

You could call the Reds the cardiac Redlegs. The Reds sweep the Brewers, then travel to Houston and sweep the Astros to keep hot and remain on a 7 game win streak and win 14 of their last 16.

Former Red Francisco Cordero came in for the close twice  in the Reds vs Astros series, only to blow the game. Twice. via Drew Stubbs.

On the first game, Stubbs hit a HR to take the lead 3-2 in the Top of the 9th to left. Xavier Paul, a hot call up in place of Votto, hit a RBI single later in the inning.

On the 2nd blown save by Cordero (now an Astro), the Reds down 3-2, with runners on 1st and 2nd, Drew Stubbs doubles to deep left center, scoring Xavier Paul and Brandon Phillips to take the lead 4-3. A Bruce RBI single later in the inning would extend the lead to 5-2, where Chapman would shut down the 'stros as usual.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Reds are 11-12, and Mark Lyons leaves Xavier

The Reds fall under .500 yet again, while Mark Lyons decides to not return to Xavier for his senior year.

Friday, April 6, 2012

This week in Cincy Sports: Votto contract extension, Kentucky wins NCAA Championship, and Reds win opening day

Votto speaks to fans and press about his 10 year, 225 million contract extension.

Votto has had a big week. He just released his new cereal, VottO's, Opening Day was approaching and Votto just agreed to a 10 year extension to stay with the Reds until 2023. This deal had a no trade clause, so he cant be traded. Votto will make more than even Prince Fielder.

 This week, #1 Kentucky convincingly defeated #2 Kansas in the National Championship. Kentucky isn't a Cincy town and I don't care about Kentucky, just thought i'd throw it in.

On opening day, the Reds took on the Miami Marlins. Cueto pitched superb and Chapman did as well. A Bruce homerun fueled the Reds to victory, 4-0 over the tired Marlins. The Reds resume play on Saturday night.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

March Madness Edition: Louisville survives New Mexico, and Baylor defeats Colorado

Late last night, #4 seed Louisville took on #5 seed New Mexico. New Mexico lead the Cardinals early, but the Cardinals were able to gain the lead in the first half 26-25. The Lobos came out prepared, but the Cardinals did as well. Louisville ended up winning in this thriller, 59-56. Louisville will play Michigan State for a spot in the Elite Eight.




Also last night, the #3 seed Baylor Bears took on the #11 seed Colorado Buffaloes. Colorado was able to hang with Baylor up until half time and even later. Baylor ended up winning 80-63.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

March Madness Edition: USF dominates Temple, Xavier knocks off Notre Dame, Norfolk State upsets Missouri, Purdue overthrows SaintMarys, and Lehigh shocks Duke.

Friday, The University of South Florida Bulls (#12 seed) who had to play into the NCAA Tournament. USF took on Temple University, a #5 seed. Temple started off great, going into halftime  leading 19-15. The Bulls turned it around in the second half though, defeating Temple.

The freshman Collins lead USF by scoring 17 points, grabbing 4 rebounds and 5 assists. He also had a steal. Wyatt lead Temple scoring 19 points and grabbing 2 rebounds.

They will take on #13 seed Ohio on Sunday.



Friday, #10 seed Xavier University took on #7 seed Notre Dame. The play started off even, and Notre Dame went into the half leading barely 33-31. The Fighting Irish slowly fell apart at the end, and Xavier won the second half 36-30. A fadeaway by Tu Holloway gave Xavier the lead, and ended up being the win.

Holloway scored 25 points, had 2 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal and a block, while Cooley of the Fighting Irish hit 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.


Also on Friday, #15 seed Norfolk State took on #2 seed Missouri. Norfolk State lead most of the game and had the lead late. Kim English hit a three to come within one, but Norfolk State upsets Missouri 86-84.

Another game on Friday, #10 seed Purdue played #7 seed Saint Mary's. Saint Mary's couldn't handle their Big 10 opponent, and Purdue defeated Saint Mary's 72-69.

Friday, #15 seed Lehigh took on threatening #2 seed Duke. Lehigh lead early, but the Blue Devils were not worried. Lehigh kept at it, and was able to upset Duke in the end, 75-70.

Lehigh moves on to face Xavier University and the winner will take on #3 seed Baylor Bears.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

March Madness Edition: Murray State defeats Colorado State, Kansas State edges out Southern Miss, and Louisville beats Davidson

Today, #6 seed Murray State took on #11 seed Colorado State for the first game of the first round. Colorado State took Murray State for a ride, even leading by 1 at the half. Murray State got in the game and regained control, winning 58-41. Murray State will take on the winner of the Marquette vs BYU game.

Today, #8 seed Kansas State played #9 seed Southern Mississippi. K-State lead early, but Southern Mississippi gained the lead and held it for most of the game. At the end, Kansas State earned back the lead, winning 70-64. K-State will take on the winner of the (#1) Syracuse vs (#16) UNC-Ashville game.

Today, #4 seed Louisville played #13 seed Davidson. Last year, Louisville was shocked by Morehead State in the first round. Louisville lead most of the game. Davidson tried to strike a comeback late, but it wasn't enough. Louisville defeated 69-62. Louisville will take on the winner of the (#5) New Mexico vs (#12) Long Beach State.

Coming Up Next: Syracuse vs UNC-Ashville, Wisconsin vs Montana, Marquette vs BYU, and LBSU vs New Mexico.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

March Madness Edition: Western Kentucky comes back from 16 to defeat Miss Valley State

Western Kentucky's Gordon lowers his head with 4:32 left, as Miss Valley State lead by 16. WKY turned on their ability and started forcing turnovers from MVST and beat MVST 59-58.

WKY will face #1 seed Kentucky in the first round.

Xavier gears up for Notre Dame while UC prepares for Texas

Sorry guys, no pictures today. (Like anyone cares that much?)

#6 seed UC gets ready to take on #11 seed Texas. UC is predicted to win against the Longhorns, but some believe the strength and thickness of the Big 12 gives Texas the advantage and win.

My Prediction: Cincinnati wins 71-63

#10 seed Xavier University prepares for Big-East based Notre Dame. ND is a #7 seed, but ND is only  predicted to win (public from espn.com/bracket) by 56.3%. It was 78% but as more people entered their brackets yesterday, Xavier shortened that gap. 10 Experts picked this game on ESPN. 6 of 10 picked Notre Dame, but an extra analysis picked Xavier, making it alot closer. XU plays ND at 9:15 on Friday.

My Prediction: Xavier wins 67-66

Saturday, March 10, 2012

XU convincingly defeats Saint Louis 71-64 and the A's outplay the Reds


Today, Xavier took on Saint Louis in the semi-finals of the Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament. Xavier dominated the first half, going into half-time leading 29-23. Saint Louis came back late in the second half, but it wasn't enough when Xavier went on another run.

Tu Holloway lead XU with 21 points and shooting 6-14 from the field. The freshman Dez Wells trailed Holloway with 18 points and 6-8 from the field. Wells made all 6 of his free throws which came up huge late in the game today. Mark Lyons improved his performance from yesterday by scoring 14 points and Frease scored 9.

A clutch Lyons three pointer and Wells free throws gave Xavier the momentum it needed to end the game. Xavier defeated Saint Louis 71-64.

Xavier moves onto the Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament Finals. They play Saint Bonaventure at 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon. Xavier's record improves to 21-11 while Saint Louis drops to 25-7. Defeating Saint Louis (being a #2 seed in the A-10 Tournament) was a huge and clutch win for the Muskies (#3 seed). Xavier's RPI improves to 37 while SLU drops to 30.

Xavier is already highly predicted to be in the NCAA Tournament (even though selections are not until late Sunday Night) with the win over SLU. If Xavier defeats SBU tomorrow, they get an automatic big to the NCAA Tournament no matter what, which will only higher there seed.

In the regular season, Xavier defeated Saint Bonaventure 77-64. This is still my favorite game of the XU season so far to attend.

Let's Go X!


Today, the Cincinnati Reds played the Oakland Athletics. The Oakland A's lead the entire game the Reds scoring once in the 4th and twice in the 7th. The final score was 6-3.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Xavier out plays Dayton

Tonight, Xavier and Dayton played for their bid in the NCAA Tournament. At first, the game was fairly even. Dayton began to extend their lead when they went into half time leading 38-28 over Xavier. Xavier would shortly come back, and make it 70-69 with 5.3 seconds left. UD attempted a fade-away deep two-pointer which was short that was rebounded by Frease and passed to Holloway as the clock ticked to 0.0

Holloway celebrated with Dez Wells and Kenny Frease, because Xavier is now in the NCAA Tournament. Dayton hung their heads low and walked clumsy off the court, because Dayton is not in and will be going to the NIT.

Xavier takes on #2 seed Saint Louis Saturday, March 10th at 3:30 p.m. in the semi-finals. If Xavier wins that game, they will go on to play University of Massachusetts or Saint Bonaventure in the A-10 Championship.

Xavier beat Saint Bonaventure in the regular season while UMass defeated Xavier in regular season play.


Thursday, March 8, 2012

UC edges out #13 Georgetown, Xavier prepares for Dayton


Today, #4 (conf.) University of Cincinnati played #5 (conf.) #14 (nation) Georgetown. Even though UC had the higher rank in the Big East Conference Tournament, many believed the Hoyas were to defeat the Bearcats. Georgetown owned the first half 24-30, but the Bearcats did the exactly same to tie the game 54-54. The game went to Overtime, only to end in a lock, both teams scoring 8 points. Entering 2OT, the score was 62-62. Coming to the end of the second Overtime, the score was knotted at 70 when Cashmere Wright banked in a jumper to take the lead. The Hoyas rushed down court, only to miss a three-pointer. UC jumped with excitement as they have upset #14 (nation) Georgetown.

UC moves on to face #1 (conf) #2 (nation) Syracuse on Friday the 9th. The winner of that game will be take on either USF, Notre Dame, Marquette, or Louisville.

Tomorrow, Xavier University will take on the Dayton Flyers, who previously XU defeated in OT 86-83. Xavier is a #3 seed while Dayton is a #6 seed.

The game is at 9:00 p.m. on Friday, March 9th.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Seniors put Xavier over Charlotte, Reds start Spring Training play, and UC grabs double-bye with Villanova win

 On Saturday, Xavier played for a bye in the A-10 tournament. XU took on Charlotte and Xavier was predicted to win by 11 points, which was close. Charlotte came out strong, with Braswell leading. Braswell ended the game scoring 28 points and grabbing 1 assist. But, a strong home support and a great senior effort brought Xavier to defeat Charlotte 72-63. Kenny Frease, Tu Holloway and Andre Walker are all graduating this year. Walker had many clutch scores, but in the end Kenny Frease led the team scoring 18 points, grabbing 12 rebounds and getting a block.

With Lasalle defeating St. Bonaventure, Xavier moved up to the #3 seed in the A-10 Tournament, which means Xavier earns a first round bye.
 The Reds opened their Spring Training games with the Cleveland Indians. The Indians lead early, but the Reds struck a comeback to tie it up, 6-6 final. The Reds take on the Indians at 3:05 today.
Saturday, the Bearcats took on Villanova. Cincinnati lead early, only to have Villanova attempt to strike a comeback. Yancy Gates lead UC with 16 points and 9 rebounds while Wayns of Villanova had a great performance scoring 26 points and earning 5 assists.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Saint Louis dominates second half and defeats Xavier

Yesterday, Xavier University took on Saint Louis University. SLU failed to gain any momentum in the second half, and Xavier controlled the first half outscoring Saint Louis 39-29. XU strutted into the locker room going in to half time, unaware of the 15-0 run SLU had up their sleeve. SLU destroyed Xavier in the second-half, beating them 41-29. Saint Louis defeated Xavier in the end 70-59.

Xavier's record dropped to 18-11 (9-6) and Saint Louis improved to 23-6 (11-4)

for Xavier, Dez Wells was the top performer, scoring 13 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, earning 1 assist, steal and block.

Conklin for SLU played phenomenal scoring 23 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, earning 2 assists and a block.

Xavier takes on Charlotte on March 3rd. It is the final game of the regular season.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Great start lifts Xavier over Richmond, USF shocks UC


Saturday, Xavier played against Richmond University. XU got off to a tremendous start, making their lead 18-3 at what point. The tables turned as Richmond came back, making it a game again. Xavier locked down defensively and extended their lead to 65-57, which was enough to end the game.

Frease earned the MVP award for Xavier, scoring 19 points and earning an astounding 14 rebounds along with it. Frease also had 2 steals and a block. Holloway lead the assist category with 6.

Xavier improves to 18-10.

Xavier takes on Saint Louis tonight at 9:00 p.m.


Saturday, University of South Florida shocked University of Cincinnati in a low-scoring game. South Florida edged out UC in the first half, winning it 25-22. UC hardly won the second half 22-21, which wasn't enough. USF had shocked UC, 46-45.

Collins lead USF with 14 points, 2 rebounds 5 assists and a steal. Kilpatrick was the leader for Cincinnati, scoring 13 points, grabbing 2 rebounds an earning an assists.

USF improves to 18-11, while UC falls to 20-9.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Almost all Reds players at Spring Training, 8 days 20 hours and 11 minutes until first Spring Training Game.

 Almost all Reds have arrived at Spring Training, including Bruce, Phillips, Stubbs, Latos, Leake, Chapman etc.
 Phillips telling the media that contract extension talk for his has been dead as of late, and that his agent and Jocketty plan to meet during Spring Training.
As of 4:56 of 2/23/12, the first Spring Training game is 8 days 20 hours and 7 minutes away. The game is at 1:05 on March 3rd against the Cleveland Indians.

Xavier comeback not enough, lose to UMass 80 - 73


Xavier went head-to-head against 18-8 University of Massachusetts on Tuesday, February 21st. UMass controlled the ball and the game early on, and even until about 6 minutes left in the game. Xavier tried to strike a comeback, which they did, but it wasn't enough. The final score was 80-73, UMass winning.

Xavier takes on Richmond on Saturday, February 25th.

Xavier's record fell to 17-10, and UMass improved to 19-8. Both teams are 8-5 in the conference (Atlantic 10), being in a 3-way tie with St. Bonaventure. Temple and Saint Louis is ranked ahead of Xavier, UMass and St. Bona in the conference.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Holloway and Xavier top Dayton in OT


Tu Holloway and the Xavier Musketeers went up against Dayton on Saturday night. Many people called this game for Xavier "there season" or "this is a bracket buster" and I couldn't agree more. If Xavier would've lost this game, they would've had to win the remaining games in the season and win the A-10 Tournament just to get a seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Many believed Tu Holloway won the game with his spin fade-away three pointer to take the lead. Tu Holloway and Kevin Dillard are in competition for the player-of-the-year award for the A-10. Holloway proved that he deserves that #1 spot by scoring 32 points, getting 6 rebounds, earning 5 assists and stealing the ball twice. Dillard scored only 20 points, got 2 rebounds, earned 6 assist, 1 steal and got 2 blocks.

After the win Saturday, Xavier earned third place in the A-10 all by themselves. Xavier is 8-4 in the conference, and they improve their record to 17-9. The only two teams ahead of Xavier in the conference is Saint Louis (10-3 in the conference) and Temple (10-2) in the conference.

  

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Chris Heisey or Ryan Ludwick, Who will get left-field?

 Dusty Baker has always been the type of coach who believes in equal playing time or letting every player get an opportunity. I personally believe that Ryan Ludwick should start off the season in left-field, mainly because he has had more experience. But, Chris Heisey has batted .254 in both of his seasons, while Ryan Ludwick has batted around .236. Many predict that Baker will give Heisey and Ludwick split time.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Rays sign Manager Joe Maddon for 3-years


Sorry for the unrelated post, but going to Tampa every year, I felt this needed some light shined on it. The Rays have just added 3 years to Joe Maddon's contract. Another reason I felt like posting this was because you never know who your World Series opponent will be.

Reds World Series 2012?