Cubs 85-76, +3
Reds 71-90, -14
POTG: SP Rich Hill (6 IP, H, 0 R, BB, 4 K, W [11/17])
Runner Up: LF Matt Murton (HR, 2B, 2R, RBI), C Mr. Soto (3H, 2 2B, R, RBI), CF Felix Pie (2 H, SB), RP Sean Marshall (2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, BB, 3 K)
This was the best lineup ever
SS Theriot
2B Fontenot
LF Murton
CA Soto
CF Pie
3B Cedeno
1B Blanco
RF Fuld
Despite putting the most Iowa Cubs lineup possible, the team that spent last night celebrating winning the division (and getting their hotel invaded by fans) were trying a heck of a lot more than the home squad. A little bit of it to do with guys trying to make sure they made the roster (though the two best performances were of guys who were certain to make it), but I think it was also the Reds just losing the will to care. Plenty of no-hitters come against teams who don’t care or just aren’t any good (and with the OF injuries, the Reds are both.) I don’t think it tainted Rich’s performance at all, but it sure aided it.
I would’ve left Rich pitch as long as no hitter was intact. I know you want to save something for the playoffs, but I don’t think it’s very applicable here. Rich hasn’t pitched in a week and won’t pitch again for another week (or more.) When he’s got that much time between starts, you might as well let him air it all out.
Today’s game will be fun for the Spring Training cameos (how many guys can play in one game), but more interesting for following the scoreboard and seeing if there’s a tiebreaker mess left behind.