Reds Sweep Rockies

The Reds haven't won 10 games in a row since 1999. That all changed Sunday, when the Reds took the field in Denver and left it 7-2 victors over the Colorado Rockies. I would also be remiss if I didn't say that Marty Brennaman will be sporting a new look. You may not have heard, but Marty Brennaman said (and I hope I am quoting this correctly), "If this Reds team wins 10 games in a row, I will shave my head." You and I both know that Marty is a man of his word, so be looking for him sporting a new hairdo.

The Reds have now swept three straight series, and have also won their last 17 of 19. They also proud owners of a three game lead over the Pittsburgh Pirates, who lost to the Houston Astros earlier Sunday.

The Reds took an early lead Sunday when Drew Stubbs lined a one out single, stole second and then scored on a Brandon Phillips RBI single. But the Rockies in the bottom half of the inning took the lead when Dexter Fowler walked, followed by a Josh Rutledge home run. That was all the Rockies would get because Mat Latos and the rest of the Reds' pitching staff was on it (again) today.

The Reds added runs in the second and third innings to take a 3-2 lead, when in both innings a triple lead off the inning that was promptly followed by a sacrifice fly. The fifth inning was the break through inning against Rockies' pitcher Jonathan Sanchez. Drew Stubbs, who has been playing like a bat from hell, hit a two-run home run to left field. One can only assume he is starting to finally wake up in batters' box and spray the ball all over the place. This was followed up by Jay Bruce  with a one-out, solo booming home run to right field that ultimately delivered the final blow to Sanchez. 

But it wasn't just the offense that was on it today. No, no. Mat Latos went eight strong innings of well pitched baseball. In those eight innings, he gave up four hits, two runs (just the two-run shot by Rutledge) struck out eight and walked three. That was followed up by a shaky, yet effective inning of relief done by Sam Lecure.

That's all for me, folks. They're the Reds, and they're Red hot. I previously mentioned the Pirates lost so the Reds are now three games up. The Reds are 18-6 in July and since Joey Votto has been out, the Reds have actually had better statistics. How is this? It's something as simple as someone else stepping up and picking up where Joey Votto has left off. It's been a team effort and they've been on fire. Let's hope this continues. I do have some news to pass along, however. Brandon Phillips left the game with cramps in his left knee. Let's hope it's just that. You can find me on twitter @stieneKYSCO .