Ivan Nova struck out a career-high 12 batters on Saturday, but allowed five runs over six innings in a loss to the Reds. Nova, who left his last start with a contusion and sprain of his right foot and ankle, had eight strikeouts over the first three innings. He ended up allowing seven hits, two walks and a hit batsman. The big blow was a three-run home run by Joey Votto in the top of the fifth. Nova now owns a 5.69 ERA over his first eight starts, despite a solid 52/16 K/BB ratio in 49 innings. He'll look to bounce back with a favorable matchup against the A's on the road next Friday.