Yesterday's highlight was obviously the Reds-Brewers game that ended in dramatic fashion after a 3-run walk off HR by Ramon Hernandez. Similar to last year, the Reds offense looks capable of having a big inning at just about any moment, which means the last minute heroics that typified last season's Cinderella run may become the norm once again.
As for the Brewers, during the Cardinals game the announcers were hypothesizing on whether or not they had a "losing culture" with their current roster. Now, I'm not in the club house on a daily basis but calling players natural losers is a bit over the top, it's kind of like questioning whether a player likes baseball. That being said, if you wanted to reverse a losing culture would Zack Greinke be the pitcher you get to undo the trend?
Speaking of the Cardinals, they may have some "culture" issues of their own as they lost a game on a wiffle ball throw back into the infield. Last season, the Cards really struggled against sub .500 teams and this may be the kind of mental lapses that typify poor play against bad competition. However, if you are a Cardinals fan than there are some other concerns here and I don't mean Pujols 0-5 performance while grounding into 3 double plays. The Cardinals bullpen is an absolute mess - they had Miguel Batista in there during the 8th - and I am not sure what the solution is.
The Yankees were the Yankees. This lineup will score runs. They worked Verlander for 4 BBs and 114 pitches in only 6 innings and seem capable of doing it to any pitcher in the league.
Hochevar wasn't bad in his opening day start but the Royals certainly looked they like will struggle once again. Jeff Francouer hit an opening day HR which essentially ensures himself 600 plate appearances this year, regardless of performance.
Derek Lowe continues to dominate. September-October-Spring-Now. Since last September, D-Lowe has thrown 48 innings and only given up 7 earned runs. Also, what kind of lineup has Jason Heyward hitting sixth?
Dodgers and Giants was exactly as billed, with both Lincecum and Kershaw putting on a show, although Kershaw was almost untouchable. Matt Kemp looked like a difference maker again, albeit only for one game, but perhaps he has put last season truly behind him.
That's it for today. I look forward to part two of Opening Day baseball today and continuing to read too much into single game performances.
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