By Kevin Kelly
The Cincinnati Enquirer

As the season crawled to its finish, Jimmy Haynes had plenty of time to reflect.

"You learn something every year," the Reds pitcher said Saturday. "I learned it's tough to pitch with a sore back."

Eight months since his last major league start, a healthier and stronger Haynes will make his Reds season debut against the Pirates today at Great American Ball Park.

"It'll feel good to get out there pain free," he said.

PHOTO GALLERY

Photos of Saturday's game

Persistent problems in his lower back ended Haynes' 2003 season with a 2-12 record and 6.30 ERA in 18 starts.

The Reds held back last season's Opening Day starter this spring to strengthen his core muscles. After being cleared to pitch, he went 1-1 with a 2.25 ERA in four spring appearances.

Haynes last threw in a simulated game Tuesday against Reds minor leaguers.

"Last year was a tough year, being hurt and trying to pitch," he said. "I tried to battle through it, but it's just something I couldn't get rid of and couldn't shake.

"Everything feels good now."

AT THE READY: Through the first five games of the season, outfielder Wily Mo Pena has two at-bats and two strikeouts.

"He's got to keep himself ready," Reds manager Dave Miley said. "He did a good job of it last year."

Pena, who won a spot on the 25-man roster by batting .306 in 23 spring games, and who is out of options, will get the occasional spot start. However, Ryan Freel's ability to play every outfield position could limit those opportunities.

"I'm sure once in a while I'll get him a start out there," Miley said. "We'll see. I've got to find out about guys, see what they're able to do off the bench."

IT'S STILL EARLY: Right fielder Austin Kearns and catcher Jason LaRue are a collective 3-for-33 at the plate through five games.

Kearns has three hits in 19 at-bats. LaRue is hitless in 14 at-bats.

"You talk about a team getting off to a good start," Miley said. "Hitters, if you ask them, that's what they want to do every year.

"There's no reason for either of those two guys to press because they're going to hit. I firmly believe and have every confidence in that."

MINOR MATTERS: In his first start at Triple-A Louisville this season, Brandon Claussen allowed no earned runs over six innings against Richmond on Friday.

Jesus Sanchez threw two scoreless innings of relief for the win.

Double-A Chattanooga pitcher Dustin Moseley allowed two earned runs on five hits, struck out six and walked one in six innings in an 8-7 win against Greenville.

ODDS AND ENDS: Reds first baseman Sean Casey has hit safely in all five games. ... Before D'Angelo Jimenez's double in the eighth inning, the Reds were 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position Saturday. They are 5-for-37 this season. ... Pirates first baseman Randall Simon left the game in the second inning with a tight left hamstring.

REDS FACT: The Reds have gotten quality starts - six innings or more and three runs or fewer - in all four victories.

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E-mail kkelly@enquirer.com