Tonight opens a stretch of Reds games against teams whose records are worse than theirs. The Phillies, in fact, are tied with the Marlins for the worst record in the majors at 16-29. Their team ERA of 4.80 is worse than the Reds’ 4.70, and the bullpen has been a real problem for Manager Pete Mackanin (the former Reds interim manager). The Phils have blown nine of 15 save opportunities (or, 60 percent) this season. Reds fans who remember 2016 can empathize.
The starting pitching isn’t knocking down any doors either. Playing the Rockies at home in a four-game series earlier this week, the Phils were outscored over the first three games 23-5 before salvaging the final, 2-1, in extra innings.