Luis Pineda relaxes after his five-inning stint. (AP photo) | ZOOM |

        CHICAGO — Luis Pineda's strong debut as a starter doesn't mean he'll make another start in five days. Pineda may start Sunday against the St. Louis Cardinals but left-hander Bruce Chen will get consideration for the start as well.

        Pineda started and threw five scoreless innings in the Reds' 5-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs. Chen followed and threw 2 2/3 shutout innings.

        “They were both good,” Reds manager Bob Boone said. “We sent out Pineda (to the minor leagues) to see if he can start. He's shown us he can. ... But Chen had his best breaking ball today. I was really encouraged.”

        The main factor on Chen's side is that he's left-handed.

        “St. Louis' left-handers do not swing as good against left-handers,” Boone said.

        Another factor is what happens the next few days. Either Pineda or Chen may be needed in the bullpen. Gabe White can't pitch because of the infection in his left (pitching) hand.

        “We'll see what happens the next few days,” Boone said. “Then we'll revisit it.”

        The decision will probably come Friday.

Player shortage puts Griffey on DL Reds 5, Cubs 2 Reds box, runs Pineda doesn't impress Cubs Pineda's win won't clinch starting spot Reds Notebook: Slumping Larkin rests Mourning Cardinals lose fourth straight Bonds scraps with teammate Kent Dodgers 4, Rockies 0 Mariners 7, Athletics 1

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