And, no, Scott Rolen, the 34-year-old third baseman acquired Friday, July 31, from the Toronto Blue Jays, won’t be sparking a revival, if that’s what you’re thinking, although he does add a solid glove and a veteran presence.
Baker’s in-game moves, like any manager’s, invite scrutiny, but asking him to carry even a healthy roster into late-season contention was about as realistic as thinking the Pirates would have a winning season.
In case you haven’t been following along, the Reds have exactly two active players, Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto, who could fetch more than a bucket of balls and a batting helmet on the open market. Pitching, intended to be he team’s strength, has collapsed under the weight of Edinson Volquez’s arm woes and alleged ace Aaron Harang’s inconsistency.
Funny, where are all those critics who insisted the Reds would be better without Adam Dunn? I know trading him last season was mainly about money, but rare is the lineup that is improved by this type of subtraction.
Blame Baker. Call for his ouster if you must. But it’s ignorant to suggest he’s the main obstacle between the Reds and where they want to be.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2408 or smcclelland@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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