CINCINNATI -- Hi everyone! It’s July 3rd, and it sounds like a lot of the fireworks have already begun.
Here are a few things to know as you head out today.
1. On this date 50 years ago, Luis Tiant of the Cleveland Indians pitched an unforgettable game. On July 3, 1968, Tiant struck out 19, walked none and allowed only six hits in a 1-0, 10-inning victory over the Minnesota Twins. Those games weren’t on television in those days, but I remember listening to that game on the radio like it was yesterday. Tiant was a tremendous young pitcher in Cleveland who really made his name in Boston.
2. Alex Blandino is the latest hitting hero for the Cincinnati Reds. His pinch-hit double in the bottom of the eighth inning Monday night drove in two runs, sending the Reds to a 5-3 victory over the Chicago White Sox. Blandino has been shaky when he starts, but he’s been outstanding as a pinch hitter. He’s seven for 21 off the bench, with four RBIs.
3. In the past, the Reds have been horrendous in interleague play, but not this year. They’re 7-1 with six straight wins. In fact, the Reds have the best winning streak in interleague play.
4. AP points out that the Reds are now 34-33 under interim manager Jim Riggleman, who took over in April after the Reds began the season 3-15 under former manager, Bryan Price.
5. Anthony DeSclafani makes his sixth start against White Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito tonight. Disco has never started against the White Sox.
6. Homer Bailey makes his fourth rehab start tonight in Louisville. So far, Homer has been very hittable, giving up 22 hits and 15 earned runs in 16 innings.
7. Jeff Mercer is the new head baseball coach at Indiana University. Mercer, 32, has worked wonders at Wright State University, where he also played. He played high school baseball at Franklin County High School in Brookville, Indiana.
8. The Cyclones are looking for a new head coach. Matt MacDonald, who has played and coached for the Cyclones, has decided to take job as an assistant coach with the Grand Rapids franchise in the American Hockey League.
9. On Monday, Cincinnati Bearcats' Jacob Evans III signed his contract with the Golden State Warriors. Evans was the 28th overall pick in the NBA draft. He’ll begin Summer League play with the two-time defending NBA champions.
Try to keep cool. It won’t be easy. Give me a follow on Twitter @popo_wcposports.
