The Cincinnati Reds have bolstered their pitching roster by signing left-handed pitcher Brent Suter to a one-year deal worth $3 million, with a club option for 2025. Suter, who spent seven seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, brings a wealth of experience and a knack for inducing weak contact, making him a valuable addition to the burgeoning bullpen mix.
Known for his career 86.5-mph fastball, Suter has defied conventional wisdom by maintaining an impressive 3.49 ERA despite peripheral statistics suggesting a less effective pitcher. The Reds are banking on Suter’s ability to control weak contact and be a pitcher who defies the Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) model.
In addition to his effectiveness against left-handed hitters, as evidenced by a.792 OPS allowed, Suter has demonstrated skill in handling right-handed hitters. Last season with the Colorado Rockies, he held right-handed hitters to a lower.585 OPS, showcasing his versatility on the mound.
Suter joins a pitching staff that includes Emilio Pagan, Nick Martinez, and the returning Buck Farmer as notable free agent additions. The bullpen mix will also feature established names like Alexis Diaz, Lucas Sims, Sam Moll, and Fernando Cruz, setting the stage for a competitive battle for the final bullpen spot. Pitchers such as Ian Gibaut, Alex Young, and Tejay Antone, along with young starters vying for a place, add depth and options for the team.
Free-agent pitcher Brent Suter and the Cincinnati Reds are in agreement on a one-year contract, pending physical, according to sources familiar with the deal. It pays $2.5 million in 2024 with a $3.5 million club option ($500K buyout) for 2025.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) January 11, 2024
The Reds’ front office is presented with a wealth of choices, as several pitchers, including Moll, Young, Antone, and Cruz, still have options remaining. This flexibility allows the team to manage their roster effectively, potentially sending players to AAA if the need arises.
With Suter, a Moeller graduate, joining the Reds, the team welcomes a proven pitcher with a history of success in the league. As the Reds continue to shape their roster, the competition for pitching roles promises an exciting and dynamic season ahead.
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