The sting of the season has subisded a bit to put together a recap.  The early departure of the Cubs from the 2007 playoffs reaffirms that this NL Central division wasn’t very good to begin with. 

This was in many ways a more frustrating season than one with pure ineptitude.  This 2007 Reds team showed flashes of brillance at times late in the season but consistently treaded about 10 games out much of the season.  Any win streaks were supplanted with a 3-7 streak.  The Reds never were completely out of it until the last month or so, but they never put together a winning streak that put them closer than five games.  Cincinnati fans like myself stuck with the team but were at times filled with self-loathing as we did it.

What are we Reds fans left with for next season?  This team certainly seems poised to make the improvements needed to win 20-30 more games next year.  They have a foundation in the starting rotation behind Harang, who is clearly one of the best in the game (workhorse, gets you deep into games,  rarely has bad outings back-to-back).  Arroyo was somewhat schizo this year but has shown two years ago the ability to be a 15 game winner.  Homer Bailey may yet develop into a big leaguer.  The bullpen has – um – a lot of people in it.  Well, okay – Jared Burton and Weathers seem servicable.  With a bona-fide closer in the mix, a starter or two added or promoted from within, perhaps this pitching staff can rise from the dregs.  (Uncle Milty and his $10+ million in salary is gone too – addition by subtraction).

Infield – The Reds have Brandon Phillips, who surely must be the best overall second baseman in the majors after his performance this year.  Shortstop continues to be a role-player position, although Jeff Keppinger was looking great late.  Encarncion has actually stepped away from the ledge – he was seemingly on his way out of the majors earlier this year with his boneheaded attitude and lack of production.  Perhaps his power will be in full effect next year.  You hope that Hatteberg will return at first – he is clearly the most professional hitter on the team and is underrated in my opinion.

The outfield is loaded with options, especially with Griffey Jr.’s resurgance at the plate this year.  Dunn will continue to put up monster numbers in the power and strikeout categories.  With his complete set of tools and talents, Josh Hamilton may be one of the most explosive players in the National league next year.  Norris Hopper and Ryan Freel are nice compliments in speed and average to the power of the aforementioned players.

In short, there is a lot of reason for optimism next year, provided this team makes some moves in the pitching department.  I’m not sure Bob Brenly would do much better than Pete Mackanin (who I’m fine with if they keep him) without an investment in the Reds rotation and bullpen. 

Gold Glove for Phillips! 

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