2009 Cincinnati Reds Baseball Preview

The Cincinnati Reds (74- 88) were deplorable last season. Hitting, pitching and fielding were all in the lower third of the majors. Although owner Bob Castellini fired GM Wayne Krivsky 21 games into the season after the club went 9- 12, it didn't help. Even though he promoted special advisor and veteran GM Walt Jocketty to the top post. Average at best, look for the Reds to suffer through another 70-win season.

There is some fine talent on the pitching squad. Aaron Harang (6- 17 W/L, 4.78 ERA, .284 BAA), who missed 27 days with a sore shoulder last season, offers an 88- 92 mph fastball that he can ran along either side of the plate. The major problem for him is arm health. Edinson Volquez (17- 6 W/L, 3.21 ERA, .232 BAA) throws a two-seam and four seam (92- 96 mph); both have fine movement and pop. His curve, slider and changeup confuse hitters. Bronson Arroyo (15- 11 W/L, 4.77 ERA, .281 BAA) can expand the zone with his curveball but control issues can hamper him. Johnny Cueto (9- 14 W/L, 4.81 ERA, .264 BAA) has a live 92- 97 mph fastball while Micah Owings (6- 9 W/L, 5.93 ERA, .256 BAA) needs to keep away from the home run ball. Francisco Cordero (3.33 ERA, 34 SV, .235 BAA), who is coming off of bone spur surgery, is a powerful, strikeout closer.

Joey Votto (.297 BA, 84 RBI, 24 HR) is the closest thing this team has to a .300 hitter. He's capable of hitting 30 homers and knocking in 100 RBI. Brandon Phillips (.261 BA, 78 RBI, 21 HR), Edwin Encarnacion (.251 BA, 68 RBI, 26 HR) and Jay Bruce (.254 BA, 52 RBI, 21 HR) provide some power and have RBI potential. Willy Taveras (.251 BA, 26 RBI, 1 HR), one of the fastest guys around, squeezes hits out of bunts and dribblers. He runs like the wind.

The fielding overall is average. At third, Encarnacion is has a tough time with range and throwing accuracy. First is soundly played by Votto and the middle is secure. Catcher Hernandez is a less-than-average backstop. Norris Hopper is a versatile outfielder and Willy Taveras shows fine range and excellent speed. In right, Jay Bruce is a talented and skilled player.

GM Jocketty has built two winning franchises—first in Oakland and most recently in St. Louis. Manager Dusty Baker has had success in San Francisco and Chicago. Last season was their first together. You certainly can't call is successful But Jocketty is signed through 2011 and Baker through 2009. This season look for them to find a way to work together to create another winner in Cincinnati.

The Reds have a long way to go before they'll be able to compete against the Cubs, Cards and Brewers. Still, ownership seems committed to creating a quality club and there are some fine foundation elements. The team is in desperate need for more offense.

Check out the Reds other NL central division rivals, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, Milwaukee Brewers and Houston Astros.

For more info on Cincinnati check out the MLB website for the Reds.