Opponent Analysis: Tim Redding

Tim Redding (8-6 4.44) will take the hill against Ben Sheets on Saturday. Redding will be facing the Brewers for the 2nd time this season, and he did not fair well in his first outing against the Crew (5.2 IP 5 ER but did post a 7:1 K:BB).

Redding is an average pitcher, who just happened to be the Nationals best starter in 2007. He is hittable (.273 batting average against, .279 career) and has an average 2.00 K/BB ratio. He has a 1.11 GB/FB ratio, so their isn't much of a tendency one way or the other.

Redding will challenge the hitters with a fastball 63% of the time (averaging 91 mph), slider 19%, curve 11.5, and an occasional change 6.5%. Redding will work the corners and only hit the zone on 61% of his pitches.

If Redding was facing Suppan or Bush, then the Nationals could have a shot, but with Ben Sheets on the mound this is a game that the Brewers should win (and must win).