The Cincinnati Reds are a few years removed from a roster filled with big boppers like Adam Dunn, Ken Griffey and Josh Hamilton. In case you didn't already know, Great American Ballpark has the reputation for being a launching pad a.k.a. a nightmare for pitchers and a heaven for home run hitters. Walt Jocketty has addressed that issue by building a strong pitching core with the likes of Aroldis Chapman, Mike Leake, Johnny Cueto and Bronson Arroyo. Just this offseason, the ball club made deals for relief pitchers Ryan Madson, Mat Latos and Sean Marshall which gives the Reds the most lethal bullpen in the National League Central.
Also helping the cause of the Reds were the departures of not only Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols but also Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. He despised the Reds and was in my mind, Major League Baseball's best manager. Heck, the Cardinals won the World Series last year, right?
2012 will also be the last season that the Houston Astros will be in the National League Central. They begin play in the American League West during the 2013 season. No, they have not been competitive in recent years but they are one less team to compete with in case they do catch fire in the future. This move excites me. It will increase the likelihood of inter league play and gives the Texas Rangers and Anaheim Angels a little bit of a tougher road to the playoffs. The Astros will form an instant rivalry with the nearby Rangers-something baseball needs.
There is little excitement in terms of the Reds' schedule this season as compared to last season. The only American League teams making their way to Great American Ballpark are the Twins, Tigers and Indians. That may be just what this team needs this season; an easy schedule. Especially now that an extra Wildcard spot has been added to both leagues. Baseball season is almost here and I can't wait.
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