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Reds players talk about playoff pressure

Reds players are pumped to be in the playoffs this weekend, but they do feel added pressure as the stakes get higher.

As strange as it sounds pitcher Bronson Arroyo says he'll try to do a little less.

"You know you go out there in a ballgame and no matter what ballpark you're in, in the playoffs, it's just going to be overhyped. the crowd is going to be oohing and aahing on every strike and every ball, especially at the beginning of the ballgame and to no burn too much energy and to have adrenaline just absolutely surging through your body the first couple of innings, it's important to dial it back. Try not to go max effort."

And to have a couple of quick innings until the game calms down. Shortstop Zack Cozart says he gets nervous before every game and is waiting for the nerves to kick in this weekend.

"This is my first time to be a part of it, so I'm not really sure. I'm sure I'll be nervous but they haven't kicked in yet."

This was September 27th in the Reds locker room before the Brewers game. Like Arroyo, relief pitcher Jose Arredondo has had playoff experience. He's hyped!

"I just got some more energy and am excited that we made it to the playoffs."

Arredondo has been to the playoffs with the Angels. Rookie Todd Frazier has been talking to the Reds veterans and says he's going to enjoy every second of the playoffs.

"I can't wait to see what happens. We have a good team and I think we can do some damage. We'll see who wants to step it up. So it's going to be a lot of fun to see postseason play."

Miguel Cairo also knows what it feels like. He says everyone in the world is watching you , so if you don't love that you're crazy.

 

Ann Thompson has decades of journalism experience in the Greater Cincinnati market and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her reporting.