The Votto Lob

I'm so tired of watching Joey Votto causally lob the baseball instead of giving a good strong throw. He's done it too many times this season, and sometimes it has cost the Reds a run or even a game. I know it cost Zack Cozart a trip to the disabled list, and he was lucky it; it could have been a more serious injury.

I'm sure Votto didn't mean to throw the ball right into where the runner was coming, but he should have at least thrown the ball higher since it was a force out. I know Votto has been improving on his defense, but his throws have seem to gone down hill this year.

I don't recall seeing so many poorly thrown balls from Votto in a season before. He is still the Reds best hitter, but now I cringe when I see a bunt bounding Votto's way or any ground ball that he fields.

Another player that seems to have several defensive miscues is Jay Bruce. It seems like he isn't giving his full effort and will sometimes drop an easy fly ball or let one fall in for a hit that he could have caught.

I do love watching Brandon Phillips play defense. He is probably one of the best second baseman of all time. He has tremendous range and a great throwing arm. I hope the Reds can sign him to a long term deal over the winter this year.