Good luck finding a man that didn't, at one time or another, dream of stepping onto a Major League Baseball field.  As a kid, I imagined emerging from the Cincinnati Reds' dugout and setting foot onto the artificial surface at Riverfront Stadium.  I grew up in the astroturf era, but welcomed the change to natural grass when the Reds finally made the switch in 2001.

When the team moved to Great American Ball Park, everyone expected an immaculate facility and playing field. After opening its doors in 2003, the home of the Cincinnati Reds has exceeded those expectations.

It is a thrill to see a well-manicured baseball field.  The sight of the freshly cut grass and brushed dirt is absolutely beautiful.  Thanks to Major League Baseball and Scotts, you now have the chance to be the envy of your neighbors and grow a "ballpark-inspired" lawn.

Read more in The Wight Pages.

When Ken Griffey Jr. was traded, right field at Great American Ball Park officially became the home of Jay Bruce.  His natural ability and physical tools give him the potential to be an all-star.  Like most young players, Bruce will go through slumps and people will question his spot on the Major League roster.

Offensively, Bruce struggled through the first half of last year.  Again, being a young player, he chased a lot of bad pitches and often tried to pull everything.  He finished the year with a .223 batting average, with 22 home runs and 58 runs batted in.

After suffering a broken wrist on July 11, Bruce spent about two months on the disabled list.  When he returned, it was obvious that he used his time off to become a better hitter, even if he couldn't swing a bat.  In 18 games after returning from the disabled list, Bruce batted .326 with four homers and 17 RBI.

Defensively, Bruce is outstanding.  Last season, he quickly gained the respect of baserunners by collecting 11 assists.  He also had an impressive .991 fielding percentage.

Barring injury, Bruce will be in right field on Opening Day.  Hopefully, the experience of last year combined with the being in the lineup with a veteran like Scott Rolen, Bruce can carry over the success he had at the end of last season.

Read more in The Wight Pages.

Photo credit to Team Doster.

Mark McGwire has finally admitted to using steroids during his playing career.  He cried like a schoolgirl during an interview with Bob Costas on MLB Network as he confirmed what many baseball fans have suspected for years.

Please excuse me if I don't make a mad dash for the tissue box.  McGwire was a cheater.

He claims that he only took steroids to help recover from injuries and that the drugs had no impact on his statistics.  Hey Mark, da nile ain't just a river in Egypt.  If steroids don't help you perform on the field, then why are they called performance-enhancing drugs?  He claims to have started using steroids on a consistent basis in the winter of 1993 into 1994. 

Check out McGwire's at-bat to home run ratio before and after he started being "healthy" by taking steroids.  These statistics are from Baseball-Reference.com, and require the minimum number of at bats or plate appearances to qualify for leadership in offensive categories.

I am not one to to lose my mind over baseball prospects.  I don't really pay attention to the Major League Baseball draft.  When the Washington Nationals gave Stephen Strasburg a boatload of money last year, I questioned the move.  I usually want to see the kids play a few innings in the bigs before we put them in the Hall of Fame.

When a big name free agent hits the market, fans of "small market" teams seldom even care.  That is because their favorite team usually has no chance of landing said player.  The latest phenom to hit the baseball world is Aroldis Chapman, a 21-year old Cuban defector.

In a shocking move, the team that won the bidding war was none other than the Cincinnati Reds.  Topping the Red Sox, Angels, Blue Jays and Marlins, the Reds offered Chapman $30 million for six years and he took it.

Should Reds fans be excited?  Absolutely.  This kind of acquisition is rare for a team like the Reds.  They should be excited because the team is obviously trying to win and I believe they can compete in the National League Central.  Of course, the chill of winter makes me optimistic about the Reds playing winning baseball in the summer months.

Will Chapman be in Cincinnati on Opening Day?  Most people who have seen him play conclude that he is not ready for the big leagues just yet.  He seems to be blessed with amazing, raw talent and has a fastball that has been clocked in the triple digits.  Oh yeah, he is also left-handed.

I have no clue if he will be a star or not.  Neither do you.  However, I do know one thing.  You can't teach someone to throw 100 mph.  It is a God-given gift.

ESPN ran a fascinating story about Chapman several months ago.  Escaping from your country is not something many of us can relate to.

Read more in The Wight Pages.

Barry Larkin spent his entire 19-year career playing for his hometown Cincinnati Reds. Considered by many to be one of the best all-around players of his era, Larkin is now eligible for baseball's highest individual honor. 

While statistics are the primary tool for measuring a baseball player's greatness, there are vital qualities and characteristics that a computer can't necessarily figure out. Larkin excelled in many of those categories. 

When judging a player at any level, I like to use the "Little League" test, which separates two types of players. One player stands in the field hoping the ball is not hit his way. The other player wants every ball to be hit to him, excited for the chance to make a game-changing play. 

Larkin was the second type of player, not intimidated by pressure situations. He wanted to be at the plate in the bottom of the ninth with two outs and the winning run in scoring position. Serving mostly as a leadoff hitter, Larkin was a key member of the 1990 World Series championship team.

Another thing that sticks out in my mind was his ability to work a pitcher. Larkin would foul-off pitch after pitch, perfectly slicing balls out of play. These were strikes, just not the pitch that was appropriate for the current situation. He was also not afraid to take a piitch, allowing a runner on first the opportunity to steal second base. 

Larkin was very versatile offensively. He could hit anywhere in the lineup and adapt to all situations. The manager could always feel comfortable calling for a bunt or hit-and-run with Larkin at the plate.

In addition to these intangibles, Larkin did post some impressive statistics over his Major League career. He was a member of the National League All-Star team twelve times, and named the league's most valuable player in 1995.

Despite winning just three Gold Gloves, Larkin was the best defensive shortstop of his era. His glove, range and arm were superb as he anchored the Reds infield for nearly two decades.

He revolutionized the shortstop position, making it acceptable for a team to expect offensive production over simply a defensive specialist. He won the Silver Slugger award nine times and posted a .295 lifetime batting average.

So, yes or no?

If Ozzie Smith is in the Hall of Fame, it would be a joke if Barry Larkin is not.

I was born in 1975 and have been a Cincinnati Reds fan ever since.  For the majority of my life, the shortstop position has basically been manned by two people, Dave Concepcion and Barry Larkin.  Since Larkin's final season in 2004, the Reds have been unable to find stability at the position.  It appears that the latest person to get a chance to play shortstop on a regular basis is Paul Janish.

Janish got a chance to play regularly when Alex Gonzalez was traded in August of last year.  He played exceptionally in the field, showcasing his glove and arm.  I would consider Janish to be one of the best defensive shortstops in the National League.  With Scott Rolen at third base and Brandon Phillips at second, the Reds should be able to count on a strong infield.

Nobody in the Reds organization doubts the fact that Janish can handle the job defensively.  The question is whether or not he can improve on the .211 batting average that he finished with last year.

Walt Jocketty has said the Reds are interested in free agent Jamey Carroll.  Carroll has spent the last two years as a utility man with the Cleveland Indians.  He has a better track record offensively than Janish, but has not played shortstop on a daily basis. 

Signing catcher Ramon Hernandez might have helped the chances that Janish will be given a real shot at the everyday shortstop job.  The other option at catcher is Ryan Hanigan.  Hanigan, like Janish, is known for his superb defense.  Offensively, the Reds probably could not afford to have the bats of Hanigan and Janish in the everyday lineup.

On Friday afternoon, we picked the kids up early from school and headed to Cincinnati for Redsfest.  If you have never been to the annual celebration of baseball during the winter months, it is well worth the time and money.  Opportunities for autographs and pictures with players are just some of the attractions.  There are games for kids of all ages and more Reds memorabilia than you can possibly imagine.

The Duke Energy Center in downtown Cincinnati serves as the home of Redsfest.  The event is well planned and  executed to perfection.  There is a main stage that serves as the location for question/answer sessions, game shows and concerts.  My wife really enjoyed the dating game show.

The kids got their picture taken with Ryan Hanigan and Chris Dickerson.  They also participated in story time with Jeff Brantley and Marty Brennaman.  Even with Reds employees rushing him to his next appearance, Brantley still took the time to take a picture with the kids.

Some of the other activities that the little ones took part in were an inflatable bounce house, speed pitch, running home to first and taking batting practice on the whiffle ball field.  They also got to participate in the kids question/answer session.  My daughter inquired about the player's favorite ice cream while my son was pleased when Joey Votto told him he too plays Mario Kart Wii.

I like to walk around and look at the memorabilia.  I am not really into autographs like I was when I was a kid.  I mostly enjoy seeing old programs, pictures and collectibles.

This year was special because the Reds paid tribute to the 1990 World Championship team.  I remember that summer like it was yesterday.  I was 14 years old and had loved the Reds my entire life.  Watching the team you invested so much emotion in win the sport's biggest prize can only be described by actually experiencing it.

Lou Piniella, Eric Davis, Billy Hatcher, Tom Browning, Hal Morris, Todd Benzinger, Glenn Braggs, Ron Oester, Chris Sabo, Herm Winningham, Joe Oliver, Scott Scudder and Barry Larkin were all present at Redsfest.  Larkin signed autographs for over two hours.

The best part for me was telling my kids all about each player.  It was great to share my childhood memories with my children.  My daughter even said she didn't need to ask the players any questions, because I knew all of the answers.  Baseball is something that is shared by families across generations.  I got to do just that on Friday night.

I can't wait for Opening Day!

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Homer Bailey was the chosen one.  He was brought to the big leagues at the age of 21 with a blazing fastball and the hopes of resurrecting the winning ways that have eluded the Cincinnati Reds for so long.  After a mediocre first year and disastrous 2008 season that saw him go 0-6 with a 7.93 earned run average, Reds fans were ready to part ways with Bailey.

Perhaps the diminished expectations allowed Bailey to approach the 2009 season more relaxed?  Perhaps his poor performance was a wake-up call?  Nevertheless, Bailey was a different pitcher this year.

I see two main reasons for Bailey's dramatic turnaround. 

With help from teammate Justin Lehr, he developed a split-fingered fastball.  Adding the splitter gave Bailey a four-pitch arsenal.  He no longer relies solely on his fastball to get people out.  With his natural ability, becoming more of a "pitcher" will only make him better.

The other reason for Bailey's success this past year was a change of attitude that started in the offseason.  Along with following a more dedicated workout schedule, he put aside the standoffish and somewhat aloof personality in favor of one that joked with teammates and was happy to talk to the media.

In his last nine starts of 2009, Bailey was 6-1 with a 1.70 earned run average.  Those numbers alone should all but guarantee him a spot in the starting rotation come Spring Training.  Building on last season's success and another diligent offseason training plan should mean big things for Bailey in 2010.

This is the first post of my in-depth review of the 2009 Cincinnati Reds.  After a quick look back at the season as a whole, I will now begin a player-by-player analysis of this year's performance and what too look for next year.

Bronson Arroyo finished the year 15-13 with a 3.84 earned run average.  Despite beginning the season with discomfort caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, he was the horse of the pitching staff.  Arroyo made 33 starts and logged 220.1 innings.  It was the sixth consecutive season in which he has started over 30 games.

To say that 2009 was a tale of two seasons for Arroyo would be the understatement of the year.  Prior to the All-Star Break, the right-hander made 18 starts, giving up 125 hits and 67 earned runs in 112 innings pitched.  In the second half, Arroyo made 15 starts, surrendering 89 hits and 27 earned runs in 108.1 innings.  His earned run average was more than three runs better in the second half of the season, ending up at a respectable 3.84.

Part of the dramatic turnaround could be attributed to a cortisone shot Arroyo received on July 10.  His final start of the year resulted in a victory over the Cardinals.  It marked the 12th straight start in which he pitched at least seven innings and allowed three runs or fewer.

Racking up 15 wins on a team that finished 78-84 is a noteworthy accomplishment.  With Aaron Harang having another disappointing season and Edinson Volquez slated to miss most of 2010 because of Tommy John surgery, Arroyo will need to put together a full season of quality starts if the Reds are to contend in the NL Central.

Arroyo has decided not to have carpal tunnel surgery on his right wrist this offseason.  He says the condition has improved since he stopped playing the guitar during Spring Training.  However, he plans on playing this winter then giving it up when the 2010 season rolls around.

I think Arroyo should be on the mound when the Reds open the season against the Cardinals next April.  He is the most reliable starting pitcher on the team and has earned the honor of being the Opening Day starter.

Arroyo is 32 years old and has one guaranteed year left in his current contract that will pay him $11 million in 2010.  There is a club option for 2011 for $11 million.

Read more in The Wight Pages.

Great American Ball Park (GABP) officially opened its doors at the beginning of the 2003 season.  Located on the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, it serves as the home of baseball's first professional team, the Cincinnati Reds.  Despite the team still looking for its first winning season since moving in, Great American Ball Park remains a wonderful place to watch a baseball game.

The concession stands at Great American Ball Park are operated by Sportservice.  All of the regular staples such as hot dogs, brats, popcorn, peanuts, nachos, soft pretzels, beer and soda are widely available.  The aisles are spacious and most stands have at least one television so you don't miss any of the action.

For the true Cincinnati experience, be sure to visit the Montgomery Inn for some pulled pork or chicken.  There are three Skyline Chili locations for Cincinnati's own Skyline Cheese Coney.  My personal favorite is LaRosa's Pizza, which can be found at three locations throughout the park as well as The Machine Room Grille.

The Machine Room Grille is located in the left-field corner on the Suite Level and is usually the first stop my family makes when visiting the GABP.  There are televisions everywhere, a full bar, pool table and video game kiosk.  Inside and outside seating is available with some tables having a view of the field.  The Machine Room is themed with items from the Big Red Machine era.  For old-timers such as myself, seeing the zamboni machine used at Riverfront Stadium is always a real treat.

The Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum does an exceptional job at paying tribute to the club's storied history.  A long-time Reds fan will be in paradise with interactive exhibits and memorabilia that will undoubtedly trigger some great memories.  Be sure not to miss the massive display of 4,256 baseballs, one for each hit Pete Rose collected during his career.

The Fan Zone is an area offering entertainment such as live music, games and activities.  There are photo walls, giant baseball cards, home run challenge video game and a playground for kids.  You can even test your speed from home to first at the "Run It Out" booth.

Crosley Terrace serves as the main entrance to Great American Ball Park.  As you approach the gate, the ground is paved with bricks purchased by fans with a personal message inscribed.  My wife and I bought one prior to the stadium opening, as did my parents.  Statues of Joe Nuxhall, Ted Kluszewski, Frank Robinson and Ernie Lombardi are featured as well.

The Reds have three official mascots that patrol the park on a regular basis.  Mr. Redlegs, Rosie Red and Gapper always pose for pictures and bring a smile to children's faces.  Even after seeing them countless times, my kids still get excited for a picture with one of the trio.

The area between Great American Ball Park and Paul Brown Stadium, the home of the Cincinnati Bengals, is prime real estate and ideal for development.  However, a seemingly endless political battle has caused the former home of Riverfront Stadium to remain a construction site.

I love Cincinnati, but any activities before or after a Reds game are usually done on the outskirts of downtown, miles from the stadium.  Newport on the Levee is a very nice area, but you must cross the bridge into Kentucky.

Cincinnati has always been a baseball town.  Fans are passionate and knowledgeable about the game.  Baseball is a sport that is passed down from generation to generation and Cincinnati exemplifies that concept as good as any city.

I can remember my parents taking me to Riverfront Stadium and sitting in the upper deck on a Sunday afternoon.  My wife and I shielded our daughter from an Adam Dunn home run ball that nearly hit her carrier when she was less than two months old.  My son's first Opening Day was when he was six months old and he has not missed one since.

Our story is a common one around Great American Ball Park.  Despite recent struggling attendance figures, fans are well-versed in the history of the Reds and genuinely hopeful for more special memories to come.

There are 3,500 on-site parking spaces at Great American Ball Park.  If you are able to walk several blocks, I recommend parking at one of the garages downtown.  You will save some time and money.  There is also surprisingly quick and easy access to interstate ramps.

When it comes to being handicap accessible, Great American Ball Park is second to none.  My parents are both disabled and have no trouble taking their grandkids to see the Reds.  There is handicap parking available at the stadium as well as a disabled pick-up/drop-off zone located on Joe Nuxhall Way.

The aisles are wide, making it no problem for a wheelchair to navigate.  Handicap seating is available in most seating areas with great views of the field.  There are even electrical outlets to charge a scooter, etc. at no cost.

In a struggling economy, people have to be more careful about where and how they spend their money.  It can be quite expensive for a family of four to attend a sporting event or movie.  Like many teams, the Reds have tried to make a trip to the park more affordable.

Tickets are available for as little as $5 and there are several "Family Days" throughout the year, which allow one person to purchase a full-price ticket while the rest of the family gets in for half-price.  The Machine Room Grille is also very affordable option for a family dinner.

Great American Ball Park is a fabulous place to watch a baseball game.  There are comfortable seats angled toward home plate, various standing areas with a perfect view of the field and plenty of attractions that will catch your eye.  If you get the chance, be sure to visit home of the Cincinnati Reds.  You won't be disappointed.

Great American Ball Park

100 Joe Nuxhall Way

Cincinnati, OH 45202