Leake struck out eight and walked two while giving up one run on three hits over seven innings against the Pirates on Friday. The Reds' bullpen enabled the Pirates to plate the eventual game-winning run, but Leake's skills growth in 2014 should be viewed as a significant step forward. In addition to carrying a career-high 6.9 K/9, Leake maintained good control (2.1 BB/9) and induced groundballs at a career-high 53.4% clip. All signs point to another year spent as the Reds' No. 4 starter in 2015, provided that Homer Bailey and Mat Latos enter next season healthy behind ace Johnny Cueto.