And These Two Belong To The Reds!

     Today is a good day to be a Reds fan! The Cincinnati Reds, one of baseball's most storied franchises, have finally committed themselves to long term success. They have torn down the Berlin-esque wall that has separated high-rollers like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and the Philidelphia Phillies, from the small market teams like themselves and has prevented them from becoming annual contenders. By committing to winning now through big trades and free agent signings, general manager Walt Jocketty finally got Reds owner Bob Castellini to open up his checkbook. He made waves by signing star first baseman and former MVP Joey Votto to one of the biggest contracts in baseball history. This is just another move made by the front office to keep a young, and most importantly productive, core together, as slugging right fielder Jay Bruce was signed to a deal worth over $60 million a year ago.

     However, this is not the first time Cincinnati has made history with a large contract.  They were the first team to sign a player to a $100,000 contract, that player being the legendary Pete Rose. Times have since changed, and only recently have the Reds been taken as serious contenders in a parity filled NL Central division. No one expected a deal like this to happen, and even the most hopeful Reds fans were crying out to trade Votto before he left in free agency. Deals like Votto for Blue Jays slugger Jose Bautista were supposedly discussed, but no. Votto embodies Cincinnati and symbolizes the rebirth of the Reds. His value to the city was just too much to let go.

     As the iconic Billy Mays said, "But wait, there's more!" The Reds have just resigned second baseman Brandon Phillips to a six year deal. Phillips, a former NL All-Star and three-time Gold Glove Award winner, has been a staple in the lineup due to his skill at the plate and his ablility to hit anywhere in the order. However, the $71,000,000 price tag is a reason for pause. Second baseman don't age well, and at 31 years old, Phillips can only get worse. Say hello to $15 beers at Great American Ball Park, my friends.

     In conclusion, I believe that the moves the Reds made over the last few months have set the foundation for a dynasty. I predict that, provided they win the division this season, that they will reach the NLCS, but lose, though the team's outlook is much brighter for the upcoming seasons.

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