Cincinnati Reds to bring Mat Latos in Game 4 of NLDS, if need be – NLDS Update
Cincinnati Reds are weighing Mat Latos’ name provided Johnny Cueto does not return in Game 4 of the National League Division Series. On Monday, October 7, the Reds' general manager and manager hinted there was still uncertainty hanging in the air about Cueto’s return.
Reds' ace had to leave in the very first inning of the NLDS Game 1 against the San Francisco Giants after he encountered back spasms. Following his exit, the team had to rely on emergency reliever Sam LeCure and then Mat Latos tossed four solid innings.
Cueto was back in Cincinnati where the club will have Game 3 against the Giants. With 2-0 lead in the five-game series, the Reds seem all set to sweep the series. However, rotation does remain a matter of concern and a lot of attention if the Reds have to play the Game 4.
Latos’ name has popped up once again now. General manager Walt Jocketty said that the club has to see whether Cueto retains his fitness and makes a comeback. Manager Dusty Baker opined the same, saying the club will see whatever is good for the starter.
As to Cueto’s status on Monday, Jocketty said, "He was much better today, so we just have to wait and see how he is in another day or so.” While Dusty Baker maintained. "We're going to do what's best for [Cueto]. I just hope that's good for us, too."
Homer Bailey is going to make start in the Game 3 against the San Francisco Giants. However, what are conspicuously missing are the incredibly effective and powerful pitches of Cueto.
The starter had 33 games in the regular season, pitching career-best 217 innings with 2.78 ERA as he held an impressive 1909 record, one of the best out there in the National League.
Currently, the Reds entire focus remains not to replace the starter largely because the rule stipulates that replacement of a player here will render him unable to play in the playoffs. That is a prospect the Reds do not want to see as their aim is to have an absolute edge when it comes to rotation.
Tags: