Mesoraco starts behind plate after catching 13 innings

CHICAGO -- On the heels of Devin Mesoraco catching all 13 innings during a Reds win over the Padres, manager Dusty Baker did not hesitate in writing his name on Monday's lineup card vs. the Cubs.

Mesoraco started behind the plate and caught for starting pitcher Mat Latos.

"What goes into it is he hits left-handers at an alarming rate," Baker said. "He's caught Latos all the time. He's probably not tired, because he's mixed [playing] time with everybody. He's [25] years old. He's not worn out."

Mesoraco entered the night batting .339 vs. left-handed pitchers and .219 against right-handers.

Baker did not ask Mesoraco how he felt before deciding to start him.

"Sometimes I ask them," Baker said. "Or, I watch how they get around. I've got a pretty good idea. If I see a guy walking in like Fred Sanford, I know he's sore."