Adam Dunn

Interesting that Kriv said no long term deal is "imminent." Also, smart. Before the Reds commit to Dunn, he needs to commit to them: Drop some weight, add some leadership qualities, work on your defense etc. Losing the tonnage would prolong his career and maybe allow him to get to a few more balls in the gaps. Insiders are convinced Dunn is ready to be a leader, cite his apparent anger last year at B. Arroyo, out late night before a start. We'll see. Meantime, picking up the option was the only option.

Glad, too, that they did the same for Hatteberg... $1.85 mil is a bargain for a productive, smart hitter who could be a very good influence on Votto. No one is more prepared than Hatteberg.

Now, go get D. Willis and a few others and let's go. I dunno about you, but I'm starting to feel OK about the '08 Reds. Probably, it's my desperation talking.

Live big, Tom Hume.