MLB: Key to success for all 30 teams heading into 2015
By Robby Sabo
Cincinnati Reds
- 2014 Finish: 76-86, 4th in NL Central
- 2015 Key to Success: A return to form
Walt Jocketty and the Cincinnati Reds were one of the more inactive teams during the offseason.
Coming off a disappointing 76-86 campaign, the only major moves to speak of were trading away Mat Latos and signing Marlon Byrd.
Why? Well, because they’re hoping Joey Votto and Jay Bruce return to form.
From 2007 when he broke in as a rookie, to 2013, Votto only hit under .300 one time (.297 in 2008). He led the league in walks twice and on base percentage four times.
Last year Votto fell completely off the map.
He hit a lowly .255 with only six HR and 56 RBI. However, he only played 62 games in his second injury riddled season in his last three seasons.
Jay Bruce is another guy in the same mold. 18 HR and 66 RBI looks okay on the surface. His .217 BA, however, does not.
Having both of these guys return to form will be essential.
We’re not even mentioning the fact that Johnny Cueto threw an incredible, league leading 243.2 inning pitched a year ago. If Cueto falters a bit, the lineup will become that much more important.
Next: Milwaukee Brewers