CINCINNATI REDS (43-53, 5TH PLACE, NL CENTRAL) BIG PICTURE KEY SERIES
The Reds seemed ensured of a fourth consecutive last-place finish in the National League Central when they began the season 3-15 and manager Bryan Price was fired, replaced on an interim basis by bench coach Jim Riggleman. However, the Reds have played much better since the switch, going 40-38. While the Reds plan to conduct a manager search at the end of the season, Riggleman certainly has put himself in the mix for the job.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Despite being in fifth place, three of the Reds’ four starting infielders were selected for the All-Star Game. Second baseman Scooter Gennett is hitting an NL-leading .326, putting him a notch above first baseman Joey Votto and third baseman Eugenio Suarez.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
The fourth member of the infield, shortstop Jose Peraza, was a question mark coming into the season. But he’s hitting .293 with 17 stolen bases.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Right-hander Homer Bailey will make the transition from starting pitcher into $21 million long reliever after the AllStar break. He has been out since May 30 because of a sore right knee.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
Right-hander Matt Harvey is the only notable player eligible for free agency at the end of the season and could be dealt. at Chicago Cubs
Aug. 23-26 and Sept. 14-16
John Perrotto