Missouri Misery: Reds Drop to Third in Central

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In a 60-game season, there isn’t much time to gain momentum. The Cincinnati Reds’ bats have to come alive.

Coming out of a five-day layoff between games due to a COVID-19 scare where one player tested positive, the Reds split a doubleheader with the Kansas City Royals. The team then traveled to St. Louis for a four-game set with the Cardinals but dropped three of four.

Among the bright spots, however, included another dominant complete game from Trevor Bauer. The 29-year old blanked the Royals on Wednesday night, spinning nine strikeouts and allowing just one hit alongside three walks. 

The #Reds today made the following transactions: pic.twitter.com/ZTdLTyvLTJ

— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 22, 2020

Mike Moustakas returned from the injured list Wednesday after a left quad strain kept him out of action. He played in all but one of the games since returning and went 2-12 with a double, two RBI and four walks.

Early in the season, the bullpen was among the shakiest areas of the Reds roster. Tyler Thornburg has excelled in his three appearances since having his contract selected on Aug. 14. He has yet to allow a hit in four innings pitched and has also struck out four while walking just one.

As it stands currently, the Chicago Cubs stand atop the NL Central and maintain a 5.5 game lead over the Reds, who stand in a third-place tie with the Milwaukee Brewers. The Reds are hitting .210 as a team, tied for last in all of baseball with the Cleveland Indians, and their 105 runs scored are among the bottom six in MLB. 

The Reds return to Milwaukee for another four-game series. Trevor Bauer toes the mound on Monday night against Brett Anderson with first pitch coming at 8:10 EST.

Good vibes only. ✌️#TakeTheCentral pic.twitter.com/HoNWoriKBk

— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 23, 2020

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