Rijo to start final game at Cinergy

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Friday, September 13, 2002

Rijo to start final game at Cinergy

By John Fay jfay@enquirer.com
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Jose Rijo has been selected to start the Reds' final game at Cinergy Field on Sunday, Sept. 22.

The 37-year-old right-hander is one of the few players sad to see the old steel and concrete bowl go.

“All my success, all my best work was here in this stadium,” he said.

Rijo hasn't started a game since June 1. Lately, he has been the last pitcher out of the bullpen, so nostalgia has something to do with the move.

“He deserves it,” Reds manager Bob Boone said. “The city deserves it. But we wouldn't be doing this if we didn't think he can win. I think he can.”

Rijo was set to lobby for the start, but the Reds announced the move before he had the chance.

“This is unbelievable,” Rijo said. “It's going to be an Opening Day, World Series atmosphere.”

Rijo would love to pitch the five innings needed to qualify for a win.

“If they ask me to, I will,” he said. “The hitters have to cooperate. You have no control over that.”

Rijo hasn't pitched well since coming off the disabled list July 13. He has pitched 23 innings and posted an ERA of 4.70.

Rijo says he won't retire after the Sept. 22 start.

“I'm not even close to that,” he said. “I have years left on my arm. I can get better.”

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