Cubs, Bully Reds, Rijo // Optimism Reigns After Opening Victory

Cubs 7 Reds 1

CINCINNATI Jim Bullinger is in the mind-changing business. Hehopes Wednesday's 7-1 victory over the Central Division-favored Redsin the season opener will reverse public opinion of himself and theCubs.

"People still have doubts that I can start," the formerinfielder said after six shutout innings lowered his lifetime ERAagainst the Reds to 0.83.

"Our staff, too. I definitely think we're underrated. We havesome good arms here. Steve Trachsel - the first time I saw himpitch, he had that fire in his eyes. We're going to be better than alot of people think."

Mark Grace was thinking the same thing after he and Brian McRaeeach had collected …