Todd Frazier Starts 2nd Half at Thirdbase Over Scott Rolen

Scott Rolen Takes Ground Balls

Todd Frazier is getting the start at thirdbase in what Dusty Baker termed "our second opening day".

Scott Rolen is healthy but Baker is going with Frazier to open the series against St. Louis at the hot corner.

"I don't want to answer this question every day," Baker said.  "Part of it is matchup and part of it is because Rolen hasn't played in four days.  He needs the reps first."

None of the Reds beside Joey Votto and Jay Bruce have played in four days but Baker has said in the past that it takes longer for veterans to get up to speed.

It is looking more and more that Frazier has taken over the starting thirdbase position although Baker is reluctant to make such a declaration.  He did talk about Rolen's situation prior to the Reds' workout on Thursday.

"I didn't get the opportunity at the end of my career that Scotty has gotten, number one, and number two it's tough because of the injuries," Baker said.  "It's tough to get going if you haven't played for awhile.  It's extremely tough. It's hard to jump back in there and think you're at the top of your game. We have to play him to give him a chance to get at the top of his game but at the same time, I have to be smart about trying to do what's best for Scotty and what's best for us too."

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