Hoover feels OK after lengthy outing in extras

CHICAGO -- Reds reliever J.J. Hoover pitched a career-high 2 1/3 scoreless innings for the win in Tuesday's 11-inning victory against the Cubs. Hoover had no qualms about being used again, if needed, on Wednesday.

"Yeah, I'm good," Hoover said. "I doubt they'll use me."

Hoover, who has the longest active scoreless innings streak among Major League relievers at 24 1/3 innings, was spotted by television cameras Tuesday night having his new burly beard groomed in the dugout by second baseman Brandon Phillips.

"I've had the razor go through it a few times, but I've been kind of lazy," Hoover said. "I think Brandon saw the camera on and just wanted to be Brandon."