Reds remain a factor in pennant race

CINCINNATI -- The Reds are 21 1/2 games out of first place. But that does not mean they're not participants in the pennant race. The Reds will face National League Central opponents in 28 of their last 38 games, beginning with a three-game series against the first-place Cubs at Wrigley Field. With six games each against the Cubs, Brewers and Cardinals, the NL Central's primary contenders, the Reds will have a say in who wins the division title. And with an abundance of youth on the roster, Cincinnati manager Dusty Baker feels the experience will be good for his club. "It'll be beneficial because we're planning on being in that race next year," Baker said. "Guys that have never been there don't know what it's like. We need to get a taste of it." The Reds will have two off-days on the upcoming 11-day trip, for which Baker is... [read full story]