The Cincinnati Reds may have picked up a small victory in their 4-2 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday.
Luis Castillo finally took a step forward – or in his estimation, three steps forward.
"I just had a lot of confidence in all four pitches," Castillo said, according to team interpreter Jorge Merlos. "You know, when you feel great with all four pitches, you can throw them at any count that you want, and you can attack any hitter however you want, too."
All the components that made Castillo the team's Opening Day starter were on display. His fastball touched 99 mph. His changeup looked as good as it has all year. His slider was near untouchable.
Former Reds starter Anthony DeSclafani outpitched Castillo in his return to Great American Ball Park, but Castillo finally looked closer to his usual self. Castillo struck out a season-high 11 batters in five innings, allowing three runs on six hits and two unintentional walks.
