Robinson makes first big league start

ST. LOUIS -- Rookie Derrick Robinson was in the Reds' lineup playing left field against the Cardinals on Tuesday, which meant he was getting his first start in the Majors. Reds manager Dusty Baker wanted to give left fielder Chris Heisey a break against right-handed starter Lance Lynn.

"I've got Heisey slated to play every game in Pittsburgh. That would mean Robinson would go two weeks without a start," Baker said. "Plus, Lynn can be tough with that breaking ball-fastball [combo]. Plus, Heisey will get the majority of starts in left field. The other guys will need at-bats so they will be sharp we when need them."

Robinson, who notched his first hit as a pinch-hitter on Sunday and scored the go-ahead run against the Nationals, wasn't given advanced warning he would start.

"I didn't know for sure, but I knew it was a possibility. I come in every day ready, just in case," Robinson said. "You just have to make sure you're ready mentally. That's the main focus coming off of the bench."

Robinson's parents were in Cincinnati for his debut but have since returned home to Archer, Fla.

"I let them know I was getting my first start today," Robinson said. "They're excited to watch it on the tube."

Robinson finished 1-for-3 in the Reds' 5-1 loss.