[Stardust]

Not too many specifics posted.

Another bat may be needed, possibly via trade, to spark the Jay Bruce-less offense. The Reds have been outscored 405-356, with the minus-49 differential the worst in the NL Central. A name like Scott Rolen whois on the trading block would be a nice fit.

The starting pitching generally has sagged in recent weeks. The pitching overall has improved versus last year with a 4.26 ERA this year compared to 4.55. It's been the inconsistency from the starters that has hurt this club.

Better health might help. The Reds have played only 10 games (5-5 record) with the projected Opening Day lineup of C Ramon Hernandez, 1B Joey Votto, 2B Brandon Phillips, 3B Edwin Encarnacion, SS Alex Gonzalez, LF Chris Dickerson/Jerry Hairston, CF Willy Taveras and RF Bruce. The current disabled list includes Gonzalez (right elbow surgery, return TBA) and Bruce, along with RHP Edinson Volquez (right elbow tendinitis, return TBA) and RHP Mike Lincoln (bulging disk in neck, return TBA).