Cincinnati Reds Update 3/18

Mar 13, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Reds left fielder Chris Heisey (28) crosses home plate and celebrates with right fielder Jay Bruce (32) and third baseman Todd Frazier (21) against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the third inning of a spring training game at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Since our last update on the Reds a few things have changed, the Reds started winning again. After a 4-12 record to start the Cactus League season the Reds racked up 5 wins in a row and currently sit with a 9-12 record. Spring Training records mean about as much as an NIT championship but it still appeases the masses of fans who panicked.

Billy Hamilton has had an impressive spring so far for the Reds, his .303 batting average leads the team for players that qualify. That includes Jay Bruce and Joey Votto. With Hamilton’s speed and bat he has reached a base 16 times and stolen 9 bases off of those 16 on bases. Hamilton may prove to be an improvement in the outfield after all this season, but lets wait until mid season to determine that.

Injury news update, Sean Marshall has reported no pain in his recent bullpen session. That news comes as much relief for the Reds brass who had to of been worried after Marshall’s recent injure struggles. Homer Bailey has a mild groin strain that may limit him in his next start but the Reds do not seem overly concerned about it. Mat Latos is scheduled to pitch in a minor league game Wednesday night as he continues his rehab, he should be ready by opening day.

Speaking of Opening Day the Reds starter will be either Johnny Cueto or Homer Bailey. Cueto has made the start before where Bailey has not, although the Reds may trot him out for Opening Day after signing him to a 6 year $100M contract early this spring.

Brandon Phillips made national headlines Monday when he hit a line drive that struck an umpire in the family jewels. The ump was taken to the hospital for evaluation and will be ok. Phillips did reach base safely.

We are only 13 days away from Opening Day, the Reds finish up play in the Cactus League on March 27. They then fly to Pensecola to face the minor league Blue Wahoos, the next day they go to Louisville before returning home for one days rest then its Opening Day in Cincinnati.