Sunday, May 07, 2006

Aurilia's absence disables Reds

Not only has Rich Aurilia been a valuable veteran presence in the Reds clubhouse, he was one of the hottest hitters on the club prior to being placed on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin.

Aurilia hit safely in 11 consecutive starts prior to the injury, going 17-for-45 (.378) with five doubles, three home runs and six RBI during that stretch.

The Reds' offense has produced one run in each of their past two games, both losses. They are 13-4 when Aurilia starts.

Aurilia's absence isn't entirely to blame for the Reds' brief but disconcerting slump, but they are clearly a better team with him in the lineup or available off the bench.

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