It had been exactly one year since Jay Bruce made his Major League debut. The slugger celebrated in a big way, smacking two home runs and triple as his team completed a series sweep by beating the Houston Astros 6-1.
Bronson Arroyo allowed a run in the first inning and that was it. The Astros were able to generate just five hits as the Cincinnati right-hander went the distance and improved to 7-3.
Arroyo threw 92 pitches and only walked one batter. It was his first complete game of the year.
With the off-day today, the entire Reds bullpen will enjoy two days off. That is especially good news for Francisco Cordero, who had pitched three days in a row.
Jerry Hairston had two of the Reds' 11 hits, including his sixth home run of the season.
Ryan Hanigan had two hits, bringing his average on the season to .328. He and Ramon Hernandez provide the Reds with what I believe to be the best catching combination in baseball.
The Reds now embark on a road trip that includes three games this weekend in Milwaukee followed by four in St. Louis. The Cardinals (28-19) currently lead the NL Central. The Brewers (27-20) are a game back and the Reds (26-20) are 1 1/2 back.
After the game, Jay Bruce said, "We came in here and took care of business. We'll go on the road on a roll with some momentum. We plan on coming back [home] in first place."
I hope he is right.
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The Reds are a definite threat in the Central, IMO. These upcoming series are huge for them.
TenRingsSTL
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