Keys to the game (5/22)

Keys to the game-

1.) Capitalize on their weaknesses. The Reds starting/pitching rotation has taken a hit so far this season. DeSclafani, Bailey, Finnegan have all found their way onto the DL. The Reds have had to rely heavily on young, untested arms, which has been rough on their record. They have been giving up a ton of runs, so we need to capitalize on their pitching woes and consistently score runs. Scott Feldman takes the mound today for the Reds. He is one of the few veteran pitchers still left for the Reds to lean on, but he has struggled so far this season (2-4 with a 4.29 ERA in 50 1/3 innings pitched), especially with his strike out/walk ratio (38 K’s, 20 walks). Historically, his numbers are just average when pitching against the Tribe (2-3 with a 3.02 ERA in 6 career starts). We need to continue to hit well in the clutch and put runs on the board. We are going to need every run we can get against the Reds. Speaking of that….

2.) Minimize their strength. The Cincinnati Reds offense has gone full speed ahead despite their starting rotation injuries. They have a lethal line up that can do a lot of damage really quickly if given the opportunity. Cozart leads the team in batting average (.351), Schebler is tied with Votto for homeruns (12), Votto leads the team in RBI’s (38), and Hammilton leads the team in stolen bases (23). Tomlin is going to need to make sure that his location is on, because more then likely they will come out aggressive. Tiptoeing around trouble will be difficult, not impossible… but difficult against the Reds. So he needs to establish an early rhythm and settle in.

3.) Win the Ohio Cup. It is always fun playing against the “other” Ohio team, especially in their ballpark. You get the extra-added chess match that comes with playing in the National League, but also the desire to reign supreme in our home state that adds to the competitive nature of the game. These are the games that I like to sit back and watch Terry Francona be Terry Francona. I may not always understand the reasons behind some of the moves that he makes, but I have learned to trust that he knows what he is doing. And boy is it fun to watch. Cincinnati has won 11 of the last 19 Ohio battle matchups, but Cleveland has won 9 of the last 10. So our success/dominance has been more recent. Winning game one in any series is beneficial in setting the tone early and building momentum. Let’s start this series off right with a win!