ST. LOUIS –– Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell said he was rattled, but it wasn’t because of the Reds’ seven-game losing streak.
After the Reds lost 5-2 on Sunday to the St. Louis Cardinals, Bell was focused on second baseman Jonathan India, who was hit in the helmet by a pitch and left the game.
Bell said India was fine after the game, but he was more concerned about his rookie second baseman than three consecutive games where the Reds couldn’t produce many runs.
“The most important thing is protecting our players,” Bell said. “I don't like to see anyone get hit. I don't like anyone on the other team to get hit, anyone on our team, especially in the head. My options are pretty limited at that point what to do about it. There's really not much I can do.”
The task doesn't get any easier for the Reds, who begin a three-game series with the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers beginning Monday night.
In the top of the sixth inning on Sunday, a fastball by Cardinals starter Jack Flaherty hit India in the helmet. After the umpires issued a warning to both teams, Bell argued with the umpires and was ejected from the game.
Bell and a trainer went onto the field to check on India. India then walked to first base with Bell and the trainer. While the trainer continued to speak with India, Bell argued with multiple umpires.
