REDS BEAT THE CARDS, SURGE INTO FIRST PLACE

Bronson Arroyo threw a complete game 7-hitter this afternoon as the Reds beat the Cardinals 7-2. The Redlegs are now all alone in first place for the first time since April 17, 2007 and sit atop of the standings this late in the season for the first time since June 8, 2006.

Arroyo allowed 2 runs on 7 hits with 3 walks and 4 strikeouts.  He threw 108 pitches.  He also ripped a bases-loaded, 2-run single in the 5th inning to put the game out of reach.

It’s the 3rd complete game by Reds starters in less than a week.  Johnny Cueto and Homer Bailey fired back-to-back complete game shutouts in Pittsburgh.

Cincinnati scored 7 runs today on 13 hits. Reds baserunners advanced from first to third on a single 5 times.  They lead the Majors in that category.  Scott Rolen went 2-for-4 with a 2-run homer and 3 RBI.  Orlando Cabrera extended his hitting streak to 9 games by collecting a pair of hits, including a double, RBI and a run scored.

The Reds have now won 7 of 8, 9 of 13 and 14 of 19.

QUOTE BOAT

“He got some very good hitters off balance today and we got some timely hits.  We had some outstanding baserunning.” – Dusty Baker

“We’ve played them 9 times and we haven’t played Milwaukee yet.  You have to play the schedule.”- Baker

“We’re playing hard and just trying to win.” – Baker

“It’s fun.  I don’t think it’s just the starting pitching.  When you win as a whole, it makes it a little easier for guys to come to the park and do their thing with a little less pressure.” – Bronson Arroyo

“I started feeling better as the game went on.” – Arroyo

“With (veteran) guys like Rolen and Cabrera and Leake (doing well in that 5th spot), you feel like you have a chance (to win) every night, no matter who’s on the mound.” – Arroyo

“I think there’s more consistency here (this season).” – Arroyo

“There’s definintely some exciting things happening around here.  If you can push it into June or July, that’s when you open up some eyes and let people know this team’s for real.” – Arroyo