Reds Embarrass Lose 6-5

After going 6-1 against both the Cardinals and the Dodgers two of the National Leagues best teams the Cincinnati Reds looked to

Sep 14, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Cincinnati Reds manager Dusty Baker watches the game against the Milwaukee Brewers in the sixth inning at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

build momentum off of their recent hot streak. Series against the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Houston Astros the Reds looked to build off their recent hot streak. Unfortunately that didn’t happen, instead they have gone 2-4 over the last 6 games.

An embarrassing and absolutely demoralizing loss Sunday afternoon at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers completely and utterly describes the Reds this season. Giving up 4 runs in the final two innings, including a walk off home run to lose 6-5 is unacceptable.

Starter Bronson Arroyo (13-11) did all he could Sunday to put the Reds in a positions to win. 6.1IP, 3H and 2ER, Arroyo exited with a four run lead. A lead that should have been more than enough for a win.

Unfortunately the bullpen had other ideas for how this game would end. Sam LeCure, JJ Hoover, Manny Parra and Zach Duke would all give up one run apiece. Their four runs would doom the Reds.

Why Dusty Baker continues to use Zach Duke is mind blowing. His 7.18 ERA shows he should not be used at any time when a game is close. For that matter within 7 runs.

Cincinnati’s offense did their job Sunday. 5 runs should almost always be enough for a win. The heart of the order all accounted for 2 hits apiece, Todd Frazier did what was needed from him as well as Zach Cozart. The offense did their job.

Once again Dusty Baker and the Reds bullpen have costed this team a win. If the Reds had back the wins manager Dusty Baker has costed them this season the NL Central champion would likely have already of been decided, or at least have a clear front runner.

Cincinnati travels to Houston to face the MLB’s worst team in the Astros. A three game sweep is what the Reds should do, anything short of that at this point is unacceptable.