SAN DIEGO — Though the Reds' sudden slugging didn't quite defy explanation, Dmitri Young was reluctant to provide one.

        Hitting three homers in the previous two games prompted this dull remark from Young on Saturday: “There's nothing to report about. I'm just hitting the ball over the fence.”

        Asked if he was trying not to jinx himself by talking too much about his power, Young grinned and nodded his head.

        The Reds didn't accidentally become sluggers in the seven-game winning streak they took into Saturday night's game against the San Diego Padres. They had 16 in this span, including 10 in the past two games. After collecting a season-high six Thursday at Los Angeles, they added four in San Diego Friday.

        Alas, they din't hit any Saturday.

        Manager Bob Boone pointed out Reds hitters were making opposing starters throw more pitches, thus eroding their effectiveness more quickly. That approach has been hastened by leadoff batter Todd Walker and No.2 hitter Adam Dunn, who are adept at forcing pitchers deep into the count.

        “The third time around the batting order, when that (pitcher) has a tick below his best stuff, that's when you get him,” Boone said.

        Boone said Young has added some muscle to his stroke.

        “Forever, it was as if he didn't have a swing to hit a home run,” Boone said. “All of a sudden it clicked in and he started popping it. Now he looks like if you make a mistake to him, he'll take you out of the yard.”

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