Cincinnati Reds Need To Find A Way To Get Runs Across

Another game against the St.Louis Cardinals results in yet another loss for the Cincinnati Reds. The Reds continued to struggle to get runs across as they plated only one run despite racking up hits. This has been a season-long the trend for the Reds.

So just how bad have the Reds followed this trend? Entering tonight’s game the Reds ranked 22nd in the league in both extra base hits (425) and runs scored (610). These numbers are minuscule compared to the 1,014 singles the Reds have tallied this season. The problem is that  these singles are rarely coming when they have runners are in scoring position. In fact, the Reds have hit .221 with runners in scoring position this season. This explains the big differences between the number of hits they collect and the number of runs they score in games.

The Reds need to find a way to translate their high number of hits into a higher number of runs scored. How do they go about doing this?

First off, Billy Hamilton will need to improve upon his hitting. If he is able to hit better and get on base, the Reds will be able to score more runs. Once Hamilton gets on base it causes the pitcher to worry about the base runners more. This season Hamilton managed to steal 57 bases in 114 games. His stolen bases often lead to runs crossing the plate, which can be seen by the 56 runs he accounted for this season.

The last thing that needs to happen is that the team needs to be more willing to put down bunts when a team is least expecting it. The Reds’ offense can be too predictable at times. If a player is in scoring position, it seems like the batter is always trying to swing for the fences. This cause them to hack at everything, which results in a strikeout more times than not. They need to learn how bunt better so it can be another weapon.

If the Reds wish to improve upon this disappointing season this year, they need to find a way to get those runs across instead of leaving them stranded at first.

Chad Troyan is a Cincinnati Reds writer. He also covers the NFL and NCAAF for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChadTroyan15, “Like”him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google