Cincinnati Reds: Complacency is a luxury the Reds do not enjoy
The Cincinnati Reds’ rise this season may have come as a surprise to many; but anyone who knows and understands the game knew since the day first what potential the team holds. All those who had hedged their bets on the Reds’ exceptionally good performance
this season are now proven right.
The Reds have lived up to the expectations of their fans, amazed the critics. However, faring better than other teams in the division never means to be complacent. Rather, it is always necessary – and indeed practical, that the Reds continue putting efforts
to prevail over the rivals.
The ups and downs are pretty much part of the game. If it is currently the ascension that the Reds are witnessing, they might – at some point in time, face the downfall too given the long stretch of games ahead.
The Reds excellent performance in the second half of the season gives it a reason to be confident. But like said, complacency needs to be avoided for attaining good results in the division, and subsequently in the league.
The first target for the Reds, for now – as it seems, is to make it to the playoffs. Given the severity of challenges ahead, and stiffening of the competition, the Reds have to ensure a smooth ride there given their ability to stay atop the National League
Central ranking.
As the second season progresses and the playoffs near, the Reds might see the far resurgent Milwaukee Brewers and Pittsburgh Pirates along with the St. Louis Cardinals. It will not be an easy ride since all the three teams come with a history of competitive
games, and the ability to outrival anyone.
Since unpredictability is what defines the game, there always has to be preparation for what might unexpectedly transpire. For instance, firstly, the team may not perform up to the expectation on a given day, and lose to go down in the ranking.
Secondly, injuries may plague the players who have been consistently performing, making the team ever vulnerable. All these possibilities cannot really be denied. It is uncertainties that have to be kept in mind and addressed, and should not be allowed to
become disastrous vulnerabilities.
The Reds have tough rivals in the aforementioned teams. Given the past season’s record wherein the St. Louis Cardinals made a sudden rise and outshone the opponents to not only win the National League Championship Series but also the World Series, the Reds
have a lot to learn from them.
The Cardinals initially did not seem in any position to come up with that unprecedented record, thrashing the opponents with considerable ease. However, they did it all once they gained their form, and focus.
That majestic win, and the superb performance, holds a lot for the Reds to learn. Complacency avoided, the Reds will be in perfect position to do what the St. Louis Cardinals did the past year. The Reds have the defence and offence that can outdo any team
on any day.
Whether they make maximum use of it, or fail to do so, is something that we will have to see in the days to come. In the meanwhile, the fans will keep their fingers crossed for an impressive display of the team this year.
Tags: