Broxton returns from DL with scoreless ninth inning

CINCINNATI -- One of the more encouraging parts of Friday's 7-2 Reds victory over the Padres came when the game was largely decided. The top of the ninth inning marked the return of reliever Jonathan Broxton in his first appearance since June 13. Broxton, who gave up one single in a scoreless inning, was on the disabled list until Wednesday due to a strain in his right elbow. Giving him a low pressure situation the first time out was optimal.

"We were hoping they wouldn't get any more runs off of [Alfredo] Simon. I'd probably have to go with [J.J.] Hoover that inning," Reds manager Dusty Baker said. "I didn't want to bring Broxton into that game when they were coming back his first time out. That worked out perfectly."

Broxton made many of his pitches in the 95-97 mph range, and he was able to use one slider and a couple of cut fastballs. The stadium scoreboard radar registered one 98-mph fastball against final batter Nick Hundley.

"I felt fine out there, no problem," Broxton said. "I was basically trying to attack the zone. Velocity is just a number. If you can't locate it, it doesn't matter how fast you throw."