Brian Bannister went old school today, working his anti-BABIP mojo to the tune of just four hits allowed in eight innings, paired with a relatively modest strikeout total of four. Of course, the Reds weren't going to be walking anyway, so it hardly mattered, but Banny only issued one free pass (yay dead baseball cliches!). Though I had my doubts at the beginning of this season, Bannister now seems likely to pass D.A.R.Y.L. May's career starts total of 97 (though total games pitched remains in question). Bannister is at 78 career starts now, and even if he immediately becomes the worst starter alive, he'll probably get at a minimum 20 more chances now, enough to pass May.
Heading into today's game Mark Teahen was hitting .333/.364/.619 in his last seven games, a mini-hot streak that no one really noticed. After three more hits today, he may finally be out of St. Willie's shadow. Or not.
Jacobs drew two walks today.
Miguel Olivo had his weekly awesome game. Now prepare yourselves for another 2-18 stretch with 15 strikeouts.
I really love the Luis Hernandez-Tony Pena Jr.-St. Willie platoon of death the Royals have working at shortstop. You have to appreciate this roster. Hillman has the ability to start the game with an all-glove, no-hit SS, pinch-hit or defensive sub with an even worse option in the seventh, then do the same again in the ninth, if needed. It's like a classic 1980s "SuperGroup" only its primary function appears to be sexually exciting the broadcasting class.
How horrible did the Reds look this weekend? Completely horrific hitting, terrible plate approach, awful defense, and milquetoast pitching. This is a .500 team in the NL! The Royals displayed a near total mastery of them, and the Royals aren't good. The Royals looked potent, patient, and overpowering against the Reds. I know it's just three games, but after weekends like this, I don't doubt Beyond the Boxscore's contention that a .500 team in the AL would win 92 games in the National League.
