Redsbeat writer Chris Haft asked new Reds manager Bob Boone some questions about baseball on grass.

        Q. What will change?

        A. Hopefully, nothing. (But) fielders have to be a little more sure-handed. You get different bounces on grass and dirt than you do on (artificial) turf.

        Q. Speed is not as critical?

        A. On (artificial) turf, you need more speed. You can compensate for speed a little bit with grass. I don't want to say it's a slower game (on grass), but it's a little different. Base hits don't always squirt through for a double. Those balls on turf always go to the wall.

        Q. Is it really easier on players' legs?

        A. Much easier. We have two guys on the left side (Barry Larkin and Aaron Boone) who need a little cushion this year.

        Q. How else does it change the game?

        A. You can bunt a little easier on grass.

        Q. What else?

        Aesthetically, it's much prettier. When I'm there early and don't have anything to do, I can watch the grass grow; you can't say that about turf. I think (the fans) are going to like it.

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