Tuesday, September 07, 1999
Doubleheader today gives Reds chance to gain ground
BY JOHN FAY
The Cincinnati Enquirer
CHICAGO — Reds manager Jack McKeon sees today's doubleheader as an opportunity.
“It's a good chance for us to pick up a half-game,” McKeon said.
The Reds, who have played three fewer games than Houston Astros, make up one today. They face the Chicago Cubs in a doubleheader that begins at 4:35p.m. One game is a makeup of an April 15 rainout.
Players traditionally do not like doubleheaders, but the Reds are enjoying the pennant race so much that they don't mind.
“It's good for us,” outfielder Dmitri Young said, “because everyone will get a chance to play. We'll be fresh.”
The Reds swept their only other doubleheader this year, taking two at Kansas City June 5.
The pitching matchup today should favor the Reds. Ron Villone (7-5, 4.07 ERA) faces Steve Trachsel (5-16, 5.83) in the first game. Brett Tomko (4-7, 5.12) opposes left-hander Brian McNichol, who is making his big-league debut.
Tomko's ERA in the majors is lower than McNichol's ERA in the minors. McNichol went 10-11 with 5.83 ERA at Triple-A Iowa.
“It helps us because we have the extra starter,” McKeon said.
Tomko lost his spot in the rotation when Steve Parris returned from the disabled list. That was less than a week ago, so Tomko has missed only one start.
“I'm not that far into my bullpen experience,” Tomko said. “So things don't seem that different.”
Tomko has pitched twice in relief, allowing two hits and one run in 4ô innings.
A good start today could get Tomko back into the rotation. Parris did not pitch well in his first game back.
“I'm just going to go out and pitch,” he said. “I'm not worried about the consequences.”
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