Random Reds Ruminations, Diamondbacks 3 Reds 1, April 20

I had to wait to write my thoughts on last night's game until this morning. I fear that had I jumped online immediately after the game I may have used language inappropriate for young eyes. I know it is only April. I know the Reds are still tied for first place. Even though I logically know those things, I still cant help but be frustrated with the team right now. They finally get a decent outing from a starting pitcher, and the offense is non-existent. I think part of my frustration is that I will be at Busch Stadium this weekend for all 3 games, and if the Reds keep playing like this, the Cardinal fans sitting around me will be unmerciful.

- Bronson Arroyo gave the Reds a good start last night. He went 6.1 innings, giving up only 3 earned runs, and striking out 8. At one point he retired 15 consecutive Diamondbacks. The problem, though, remained the same. Arroyo gave up runs in the first inning and the second inning. Reds starting pitching continues to give up early leads. I think this is affecting the offense. Constantly being down before you even come up to the plate is making them press to get the runs back right away. I could be wrong, but I think that if the Reds could score first in a game it would relax them at the plate and let them get back to their old selves.

- The only bright spot for the Reds during this four game losing streak has been the bullpen.  It was no different last night. Aroldis Chapman relieved Arroyo in the 7th and went 1.2 innings, giving up no hits and striking out one. He did walk two batters, but no damage came from it. His velocity was back up near 100. Francisco Cordero followed Chapman for an inning, giving up no runs, no hits, and walking one.

The Reds (9-9) now find themselves in a four-way tie for first place in the Central with Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Louis. As we all know, the Reds go out on the road to face the Cardinals and then the Brewers. It would be nice to embark on that big trip with some good vibes, so lets hope they can avoid a sweep today. Mike Leake (2-0, 5.40 ERA), fresh off his shoplifting spree, will try to end the skid against the Diamondbacks' (8-8) Daniel Hudson (0-3, 4.26 ERA).