The Indians would like to get RHP Paul Byrd out of his personal slump this evening as they host the Cincinnati Reds, according to the Sports Network.Byrd was 2-3 after a defeat of the Oakland Athletics on May 13, but has since dropped five of six decisions as his record has plummeted to 3-8 and his earned run average has risen from 3.61 to 5.21. He dropped a 4-3 verdict to the Los Angeles Dodgers in his last outing, allowing seven hits and four runs over seven innings on June 22. Byrd is 4-1 in 14 career games - seven starts - against the Reds, posting a 3.04 ERA and striking out 34 batters in 50 1/3 innings of work.

Paul Byrd allowed four runs over seven innings against the Dodgers as he issued zero walks with just one strikeout. Byrd fell to 3-8 with the loss.In 15 starts this season, Byrd has allowed five or more earned runs six times. Byrd continues to be nothing more than what he is, and that is a mildly effective fantasy hurler who is only worth starting as a replacement arm.

Byrd gets victory with four-hit outing

Indians SP Paul Byrd could not handle a struggling Royals squad and ended up on the losing end Sunday. Byrd was tagged for nine hits and six runs in a 6-1 loss to K.C. He lasted just 4 1/3 innings. He did not walk a batter or strike one out while allowing two homers -- a solo homer to Jose Guillen and two-run shot to Mark Grudzielanek. Byrd is winless in his last three starts (0-2).