The Reds' five-run rally in the ninth inning Thursday wouldn't have added any drama if Chris Reitsma and Jared Fernandez hadn't held the Cubs at bay for the final four innings.

        After the Cubs scored six times in the first five frames, Reitsma and Fernandez threw two scoreless innings apiece to keep the Reds within striking dis tance.

        It was Reitsma's first appearance since being moved to the bullpen during baseball's recent hiatus. He allowed only one hit and one walk.

        He looked nothing like the pitcher who gave up five earned runs, seven hits and two walks in 2 1/3 innings at Wrigley Field in his last start.

        Manager Bob Boone said he might give Reitsma another start this season.

        “He threw awfully well today,” Boone said. “He had better arm action, better tempo. His whole demeanor was different.

        “You throw like that, you're going to be a star.”

        Reitsma said he felt comfortable in his new role.

        “Coming out of the 'pen, it's a different mindset,” he said. “You know you're only going to go one or two innings, so you can blow it out a little.”

        Reitsma didn't sound concerned about his role the rest of the season.

        “If they give me a major-league uniform and give me the ball ... I'll do whatever they want me to do.”

        Fernandez, the 29-year-old rookie knuckleballer, had his second scoreless outing in as many games, giving up only two hits and no walks.

        “He threw two good innings,” Boone said. “He's an interesting guy. I may start him.”

Cubs 6, Reds 5 Reds-Brewers scouting report Walker not worried as club hits road Bullpen duo gave Reds' bats a shot Cubs turn sights to wild card Reds box, runs

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