Reds to Start Mike Leake in Game 4 of NLDS

Cincinnati Reds newsReds will activate Mike Leake to start Game 4 of the NLDS

The Cincinnati Reds will start Mike Leake in place of ace right-hander Johnny Cueto in game four of the NLDS. Cueto threw just eight pitches before leaving in game one, with what was initially called back spasms. Mat Latos had been a consideration, however he replaced Cueto and pitched four innings in game one.

The Reds lead the series 2-1, after a 10 inning loss on Tuesday night. The Reds missed an opportunity to sweep the series after an error by Scott Rolen in the 10th inning allowed the Giants to push across the winning run. Game 4 is scheduled to start at 4:07 p.m. Wednesday with the Reds looking to book a trip to the NLCS with a victory.

Leake was left off the NLDS roster after posting a 4.58 ERA and 116/41 K/BB ratio in 179 innings over 30 starts this season.  The move means Cueto will not be available until or unless the Reds reach the World Series.

Barry Zito is scheduled to start for the San Francisco Giants.