2009 Reds Rewind: Homer Bailey

Homer Bailey was the chosen one. He was brought to the big leagues at the age of 21 with a blazing fastball and the hopes of resurrecting the winning ways that have eluded the Cincinnati Reds for so long.

After a mediocre first year and disastrous 2008 season that saw him go 0-6 with a 7.93 earned run average, Reds fans were ready to part ways with Bailey.

Perhaps the diminished expectations allowed Bailey to approach the 2009 season more relaxed. Perhaps his poor performance was a wake-up call. For whatever reason, Bailey was a different pitcher this year.

I see two main reasons for Bailey's dramatic turnaround. 

With help from teammate Justin Lehr, he developed a split-finger fastball. Adding the splitter gave Bailey a four-pitch arsenal. He no longer relies solely on his fastball to get people out. With his natural ability, becoming more of a "pitcher" will only make him better.

The other reason for Bailey's success this past year was a change of attitude that started in the offseason. Along with following a more dedicated workout schedule, he put aside the standoffish and somewhat aloof personality in favor of one that joked with teammates and was happy to talk to the media.

In his last nine starts of 2009, Bailey was 6-1 with a 1.70 earned run average. Those numbers alone should all but guarantee him a spot in the starting rotation come Spring Training.

Building on last season's success and another diligent offseason training plan should mean big things for Bailey in 2010.