Latos excited about being a Red

CINCINNATI - Only in town for less than 24 hours, newly-acquired Reds pitcher Mat Latos had a lot to say during a meeting with local media this morning at Great American Ball Park. 

Latos arrived in town just before late Wednesday night, but was up early Thursday morning to help sendoff the 2012 Reds Caravan.  Among those he had a chance to speak with is Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips, who briefly filled Latos in on the team.

"He welcomed me, the only guy I really know is Ryan Ludwick who I played with in San Diego. I didn't want to walk into spring training and just feel like the odd man out with weird looks whenever I first get there."

Cincinnati acquired Latos in a trade with the San Diego Padres in December.

Latos believes the 2012 Reds is full of talent and can be a playoff  contender. While with the Padres, Latos pitched in spacious Petco Park. 

Petco is considered a "pitcher friendly" ball park compared to GABP which is widely regarded as a hitter's park. Latos says he is ready to take this situation head-on and looks forward to pitching in Great American Ball Park.

Click on the video player to see the Mat Latos interview from Thursday morning.

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