CINCINNATI -- Despite an improved second half, the Reds' pitching staff still has the second-highest ERA in the National League. While there is no pride in that, Reds pitchers can puff their chests over posting back-to-back shutouts following Monday's 3-0 victory over the Brewers at Great American Ball Park. Cincinnati has now won four games in a row.
Both Monday's win and Sunday's 8-0 victory over the Pirates came despite not getting a quality outing from the starter. Keyvius Sampson, who took the spot start when Anthony DeSclafani was skipped in the rotation, provided 4 2/3 innings, allowing four hits, two walks and striking out seven.