Gomes’ bat needs to outshine his glove

Hal McCoy has had enough of the Cincinnati heat, so the Reds’ road trip comes at a good time. Back to the Man Cave with the pooches and cigars.

Q Why not replace Jonny Gomes in left field after his atrocious play defensively during the Cardinals series? — Matt, Lexington, Ky.

A So you’re saying that one of those garden gnomes they gave away Saturday would be better in left than Gomes? No, Gomes won’t win a Gold Glove, or even a Silver or Bronze. But the trade-off is his offense and that’s what he needs to pick up again. He has made some remarkable plays in left this year, though, but you have to expect a misstep or two once in awhile.

Q I was disappointed to hear of the trade of Chris Dickerson. With the struggles of Drew Stubbs and Jay Bruce I was expecting Dickerson to get a chance. — William, Dayton

A I never understood the allure of Dickerson. Before he got hurt he was hitting .205 with a .222 on-base average and 19 strikeouts in 44 at-bats. He is not that young, 28, and he is injury-prone and clearly behind three younger outfielders in Bruce, Stubbs and Chris Heisey. He was clearly on the expendable list.

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