Matt Maloney's Debut a Memorable One: Reds Win in 11

The sellout crowd at Great American Ball Park on Saturday got its money's worth. After a tough loss in the series opener, the Reds were badly in need of a victory in game two.

Matt Maloney made his Major League debut Saturday night and did not disappoint. He pitched six innings, allowing the Cubs just two runs on six hits.

Maloney was in trouble early, giving up a leadoff double to Alfonso Soriano and then hitting Ryan Theriot. Some stellar defense by Chris Dickerson helped Maloney escape the first inning without allowing a run. He got himself into hot water again in the second, but struck out Soriano to end the threat.

Does Micah Owings have some competition? Maloney, who was batting .286 with a home run at Louisville, also collected his first Major League hit.

Maloney said he did not feel nervous, and his performance validated that claim.

"Words can't describe it," Maloney said. "It was awesome. I didn't feel nervous at all. I don't think it's all sunk in yet."

The Cubs tied the game in the eighth against David Weathers and it stayed that way until the bottom of the 11th when Jay Bruce scored on a ground ball by Adam Rosales.

Nick Masset (3-0) seems to get better and better every time he pitches. He earned the victory with two shutout innings.

Joey Votto Update: Votto was at Great American Ball Park on Friday and watched batting practice in street clothes. He did not talk to the media, but did speak with Dusty Baker. Baker said Votto sounded better, but probably would not be ready to play on June 14, the day he can be activated from the 15-day disabled list.