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Shorthanded Reds turn to Smith for Cubs opener
- Updated: September 30, 2016
ST. LOUIS — For the second time this month, in a series against the Cubs, the Reds rotation will be shorthanded, and manager Bryan Price and will dip into the bullpen for a starter. Once again it will be Josh Smith, who gets the ball in Friday’s opener at Great American Ball Park.
During the Reds’ 6-1 loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field on Sept. 20, Smith pitched well over his three innings (66 pitches). He allowed one earned run, three hits and two walks, with three strikeouts.
“The goal is to go as long as I can and try to be a little more efficient,” Smith said. “Last time some guys fouled off some tough pitches, and they had long at-bats. I’ll try to get early contact and go as long as I can.”
Smith last pitched on Sunday in Milwaukee, throwing a scoreless inning of relief. He threw a bullpen session during Wednesday’s game vs. the Cardinals when it was clear he would not be needed. Before his last start, he had two days of rest following a relief appearance of 62 pitches.
“It’s not like he’ll have an unlimited workload …
