Harang looks to rebound from a mediocre April against the NL East leading Marlins

The Reds look to continue their dominance on the road as they prepare to kickoff a two-game set with the Marlins. Ace Aaron Harang gets the nod tonight against a very tough Josh Johnson.

I think it is safe to say that Harang is looking to improve on his slow start in April, which saw him finish the month at 2-3 with a 3.09 ERA. Now would be a great time for the big right-hander to snap his skid, as the NL East leading Fish Sticks have dropped their last three games.

The Reds, on the other hand, are coming off another series win over the Pirates that concluded with a 5-0 win on Sunday. That was the Reds’ third shutout victory in their last four games, as they now lead the majors with five shutouts on the season (when was the last time the Reds led the league in shutouts…). In his last start, Harangatang pitched five innings, giving up six runs (five earned), six hits and had just two strikeouts.  He also hasn’t pitched too well against Florida in the past, posting a 6.98 ERA over his last three games against the turquoise and black.

Josh Johnson has been nothing short of lights out this season. He takes an undefeated 2-0 record and 2.60 ERA into tonight’s matchup. Although Johnson has looked sharp this season, he gave up three runs in a no decision against the Mets in his last start on April 29th.

Florida is the final stop on the current five game roadtrip before the Reds head back home for five against the BrewCrew and the Red Birds (Brewers and Cards for all the old-schoolers out there).