4/3/2008 4:45:13 PM

It's one game and you can't get too carried away, but this was a big day for the Reds. If Cueto continues to perform in this manner, it could have a huge impact on this ballclub, both this season and years to come. Never mind his 10 strikeouts (with his flaming fastball and filthy changeup). The most impressive stat is 0 walks. Dude was under control all game long, threw strikes and challenged hitters. All from a 22-year-old. When he gave up a homer, he came back with a dribbler to the mound and then a strikeout. That is moxy. You can't coach that and you can't teach that. You either have it, or you don't. Cueto has it, Homer Bailey doesn't.
Another very impressive part of this game, compared to last year was the impact of the new look bullpen. Last year's bullpen blows that lead every time. This year, Weathers loads the bases (he won't do that very often), then Mike Lincoln comes in and holds the game and Cordero slams the door shut, 1-2-3. So for all those naysayers who didn't think Cordero's signing was that big, that's one win already from last year because of the signing. I'm going to keep track all year.

Jimmy Dinsmore

4/3/2008 4:59:58 PM

It is so nice to see Francisco Cordero at the end of the game. Nothing against Weathers, but he simply is not closer material.

As for Cueto, how can it not get Reds' fans excited to see this type of performance. I am also anxious to see Edinson Volquez. Still, I don't see why this has to be about Homer Bailey. Why are people so hell bent on bashing him? What does it hurt to have in Louisville working things out. He is way too young to dub a bust.

Dan Clasgens

4/3/2008 5:15:56 PM

I'm not trying to bash Homer. I'm just saying it's quite nice to have a pitcher actually live up to the hype. There are so many players (in every organization) that are dubbed can't miss and lots of them miss. I think Homer will fall into that category, but how sweet is it to have Cueto, Volquez and Homer Bailey, all potential front line pitchers, all under the age of 23 and all under your organization's control. I agree 100%, how can fans not be totally pumped. I was listening to the game at work and just clapping and pumping my fists.

Jimmy Dinsmore

4/3/2008 5:23:12 PM

by the way Homer had a nice outing today. Only 1 run and more importantly only 1 walk. Threw strikes and ground ball pitches. I would LOVE for Homer to be a stud too. Believe me. I just have seen things in him that bother me. He seems to not have it mentally. Maybe he can put it all together, but as I said, you either have that makeup or you don't.

Jimmy Dinsmore