Reds Reel

The Cincinnati Reds got clobbered today 8-1 to their nemesis, the St. Louis Cardinals. The game ended in the fifth when Reds shortstop Paul Janish booted a ball. Now this guy can't hit so he better field his position. Nope. Then Reds starter Edinson Volquez who can't deal with any adversity fell apart. A hit and then Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday blasted his second home run. Volquez had given up one to Holliday and one to Lance Berkman in the first.

I don't know if Volquez has any options left. But I've yelled about this a bunch of times. It's time to end the insanity. You cannot send Volquez out there. I don't care if Edinson Volquez has great stuff. He can't locate his fast ball. And if you can't do that, you can throw 95 mph all day and you're just grooving pitches for the other team to clobber. His control stinks and he's too immature. Folks, he gave up seven earned runs today.

The disturbing thing is that Reds management, and I'm talking about GM Walt Jocketty and manager Dusty Baker seem content with this lineup. There is now a offensive breakdown with four positions. Left field, center field, shortstop and third base. Management refuses to do anything. I mean how many times do we have to see centerfielder Drew Stubbs take the first two pitches for a strikes and then strike out. Third baseman Scott Rolen's old injuries have caught up with him. He can no longer drive the ball. Outfielders Jonny Gomes and Fred Lewis are not the answer.

The Reds need to change or else the season is over. Put Chris Heisey in left. Send down Paul Janish and bring up Zack Cozart. Those are the minimal changes that are needed.