I have read through this thread and there have been some excellent points made about all the options, however, I would only choose an option that would apply pressure on Reyes. Playing off of any other ball other than the 3ball or spotted ball is only allowing Reyes to play comfortably. I also agree with Tom on all the problems with soft kicking the 6ball, he envisioned it perfectly.
We can all play from our computer and position the balls the way we would like it to come out (as Steve did) and say that "this isn't too bad a spot" ok sure but getting there is another subject. Even if you do get where Steve drew it up he leaves Reyes the exact shot that Tom described 'off the 3ball' drifting naturally to the rail at the bottom. From anywhere down there Buddy is in worse shape then he was before shooting the kick. :frus That certainly should eliminate the kick option on the 6ball.
I agree with Freddie when he says that "opening up the spotted balls helps Reyes" However, it also helps Buddy.
Plus the angle offered for that option looks like it sends the cue ball toward the 14ball making this option difficult to control the cue ball off of. However, if struck well you will apply plenty of pressure on Reyes. Reyes will be hard pressed to walk away from the table with out giving up a good return shot.
Well...I like this option over the 6ball because it applies pressure by forcing your opponent to work harder, plus you're developing a stronger position.
Banking the 3ball one rail is not a tough shot to execute, in terms of accuracy and speed. The shot is played not to make the bank but to lay it close to the bottom rail..behind the 2ball. The cue ball should be hit with "two tips" right english, which will send the cue ball toward the 14ball, taking away the cross corner scratch possibility. I would try to execute the shot so the cue ball hits safely to the left of the 14ball and then softly toward it. Iknow it's a tough shot, however, you're margin for error is large. o With the correct speed both the cue ball and the 3ball should end up where intended providing you hit the shot well. By ending up with the cue ball around the area where the 14ball sits the 2ball and 13ball should cover the 3ball and take away all soft kicks into the 3ball off the side rail. From that position Reyes will be in deep trouble.
The three rail 3ball shot is too tough for me to call because it will basically do similar things that the one rail bank will do but to me the cue ball is tough for me to control. Maybe for some who have the confidence and skill to control the cue ball this option is very viable (which I agree) but imo for the masses it's a pass. However, if you have this shot in your arsenal it's clearly a good option.
Sorry if I offended anyone that's not my purpose. Ego's around here are pretty large (including mine) just trying to call it like I see it.
Dr. Bill