5 Reasons Why The Cincinnati Reds Will Make Playoffs
Cincinnati Reds: 5 reasons why they will make the playoffs
The Cincinnati Reds are currently in third place and 6.5 games back in the National League Central Division. However, if the season ended today, the Reds would still make the playoffs as the second NL wildcard team. The team will have to play great baseball to make the playoffs, and they are very capable of doing that. The Reds have been through a lot this season, including a ton of injuries, yet they are still 10 games over the .500 mark. The team has won two of the last three NL Central titles (but I don't think that will happen this year); here are 5 reasons why they will still make the playoffs.
#5 - Starting Pitching
For the most part, the Cincinnati Reds have been treated to great starting pitching this season. As of August 3, the Reds rotation is responsible for a 3.35 ERA, the fourth best ERA among starting rotations in the NL. They are also responsible for the third most wins in the NL with 44. The starting rotation has only given up 258 earned runs, that's the fourth fewest in the league. The Reds starting rotation has recorded more strikeouts than any other team in the National League, as they have a whopping 581 strikeouts.
#4 - Ryan Ludwick
Ryan Ludwick is currently on a rehab assignment in Triple-A Louisville. Ludwick was put on the disabled list following a shoulder injury he suffered on Opening Day. Ludwick has been working hard and should return to the team later this month. Last season Ludwick hit .275, had 26 home runs, and knocked in 80 runs. Once he returns to the team, he will be able to help the Reds offense quite a bit as they make a playoff run.
#3 - Joey Votto
Joey Votto will help the Reds make the playoffs this year. Votto has had a nice season so far, he is hitting .321, has 17 home runs, and 52 RBIs. Votto's power numbers are down from last season, but he does a lot of the little things that helps the team win. He leads the team in walks, on-base-percentage and runs. He can get on base and score.
#2 - Brandon Phillips
Brandon Phillips has been a huge part of the Reds' success so far. Phillips is hitting a solid .263, has 13 home runs and has a team-high 83 RBIs. Phillips is the guy you want at the plate with the winning run in scoring position. Phillips is the best defensive second baseman in the NL and his talents can definitely lead the Reds to the playoffs.
#1 - The Bullpen
The Reds bullpen has been great this season. As of August 3, the Reds 'pen has a 3.45 ERA, the seventh best in the NL and have allowed only 119 earned runs, that's good for third best in the NL. The bullpen also is second in strikeouts with 335, and second in opponent batting average of .217. Guys like Manny Parra, Sam LeCure and Arolids Chapman can come in late in games and get the job done.
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