A FEW MO' THINGS, 7/19/12

Programming Notes: Back on ESPN1530 today starting at 3:04. 

-That was ugly.

It wasn't necessarily the fact that the Reds lost last night, or that Mat Latos was so ineffective, or that the game seemed hoplessly over by the middle innings, it's that last night highlighted one painful fact about this team:

The Reds do not manufacture runs well. More bunts not executed, more runners stranded on third after getting there with less than two outs.

They continue to fail to get runners over and in.  They continue their reliance on the big blast.  These things have been themes all season.  How can that be less likely to continue without Joey Votto?

-Joey Votto says the issue with his knee was handled perfectly.  Not taking every possible precaution with a guy the team has more than $250 million invested in, doesn't strike me as "perfect."

-Ryan Ludwick has an extra base hit in five of his last six starts.  Alas, he's not starting today.

Makes sense.

-I love the idea of the Reds and Bengals partnering for training camp, and I definitely plan on making it a day downtown a couple times next month to see the Bengals practice and the Reds play on the same day.

More than anything, I like the fact that the two pro teams in town finally seem to get that that, believe it or not, they actually share some of the same customers.

Novel concept.

-Rick Ankiel, just DFA'd by the Nationals and a left-handed hitter, would look pretty good on the Reds bench.

-I love athletes who think that the media's job is to root for them.

-I love how seriously Kobe Bryant is taking the Olympics.

-The Cubs had Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis throw out ceremonial first pitches.  Hilarity involving a pizza delivery ensued.

The Reds considered inviting Will and Zach, but fearing backlash from UC fans because neither are from Cincinnati, the decided against it.

-Apologies for the brevity.  I'm on rain delay duty until the real show begins at 3:04.  Haven't hosted the Banana Phones yet this season, so I'm excited. The Olympics are coming.  Here's a reason to watch.