Well Reds fans after all the good things I talked about last week. I was prepared to write about how the Reds pitching wasn’t doing very well and how it was understandable playing in the Arizona, Cactus League. I was also going to talk about how the Reds bats have seemed very dead only putting up four runs in the first two games of this year’s spring training. Then came game No. 3 against the Kansas City Royals — and oh my — the Reds got their game together and was I ever glad they did.

The Reds starting pitcher Bronson Arroyo threw two scoreless innings, with one strikeout. Drew Stubbs ended a two game hitless streak, knocking a two-run homer in the third inning to put the Reds up 2. Early reports from the Reds have Stubbs starting center field this year and if he starts hitting like this in every game it will be very hard for anyone else to take that job from him.

Chris Dickerson is trying to become an everyday starter for the Reds this year, Dickerson hit the ball well going 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs and crossing the plate twice himself. Dickerson had been one of the few Reds players that have been putting the ball into play this spring, but if this game is any indication, business at the plate might just be picking up. With Johnny Gomes hitting a three-run shot in the fifth and Danny Dorn hitting a two-run homer in the seventh. Jay Bruce and Scott Rolen both going 2 for 3, is seems the Reds bats have come alive.

I know what you’re thinking, Cliff forget all the hitting details what about Aroldis Chapman. Well let me just tell you. Chapman also threw two scoreless innings just like Arroyo allowing one hit, a walk and striking out three of the last four batters he faced. He was also awarded the win for the game. Chapman was impressive throwing two of his three pitches very well, he only threw one changeup in this outing. Chapman worked up a bit of a high pitch count his first inning but more than made up for that coming out throwing that signature 100 MPH fastball, also hitting 99 MPH and throwing a 86-mph slider to get three straight outs in his second inning. After this strong showing, Chapman is in somewhat of a lead for the fifth starting spot. So far Chapman has been one of the best pitchers for the Reds after three games, if this continues I don’t see how the Reds could possibly not let this young left hander have a shot at the big leagues.

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This week’s trivia question was submitted by: Chris Grace

To submit a trivia question email it to: cmarcum@heart-landpublications.com

Who was the first athlete on a Wheaties box?

Answer: Lou Gehrig in 1934.