ESPN Thinks the Reds Smell Funny

ESPN has their pre-season look at the Reds, and it doesn’t sound like they expect much to have chanced since last year.

The only quote that really sticks out is this one:

The Reds don’t figure to challenge for the NL Central title this season; the team hasn’t changed much from last season, when they posted a 72-90 record.

We’re still talking about the NL Central, right?  The division that took only 85 games to win in 2007.  I don’t think any team in the NL Central has improved enough to make a significant impact in the standings, but I’d like to think that Reds have to be better than last year.  Good enough to win the NL Central?  Too early to tell, but I think they at least have a shot to compete.

I’m not ready to make my 2008 predictions for the Reds yet, but 13 games separated the division winners (Cubbies) from the Reds last year.  That seems like a lot – and it is – but when you think about how many games the Reds lost last season because of the brutal bullpen, well… let’s just say that we better not run into the same problem this year with $46 million invested in a closer.

I can count on one hand at least 13 games* the Reds lost last season because of their bullpen – a problem that has (apparently) been fixed with the edition of Cordero. 

*I have large hands 

Assuming Cordero does his job, it’s not crazy to think the Reds could win 80+ games this season.  Will that be enough to win the NL Central?  How should I know, I just work here.

The bullpen is always an unpredictable part of a team, so I’ll continue to hold my breath from the 6th or 7th inning on until they prove they can handle the job.

I’ll shut up, because like I said I’m not ready to give my ’08 predictions until I see how the gang looks in Spring Training, and that all the key players make it to Opening Day without any injuries.

I’m looking at you Ken Griffey, Jr.