Saturday, May 22, 1999

Avery feels ready for Sunday start

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BY CHRIS HAFT
The Cincinnati Enquirer

        SAN DIEGO — The Reds received some encouraging news about their starting rotation Friday when Steve Avery declared himself fit to start Sunday's series finale against San Diego.

        Steve Parris, who would have pitched for Avery, will open the three-game series against Los Angeles Tuesday at Cinergy Field.

        Denny Neagle's uncertain status and Jason Bere's demotion from the rotation still leave the Reds' starting contingent unsettled. But with Monday's scheduled off day, Cincinnati won't need a fifth starter until next Saturday, the second game of a three-game series against the Florida Marlins.

        Bere could rejoin the rotation quickly if the Reds decide to shelve Neagle for any length of time. Bere is expected to test his pitching mechanics by throwing early batting practice today.

       

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