The Cincinnati Reds’ top 2023 draft pick, Rhett Lowder, has exceeded expectations, and his impressive performances might lead to significant roster changes. Lowder, who was selected out of Wake Forest, has dominated the minors and, after just one start in Triple-A, made an impact in the majors, thanks to the Reds’ injury struggles. Now, with a sub-1.00 ERA in over 10 innings pitched in the big leagues, Lowder looks to be a lock for the Reds’ 2025 rotation.
This promising rise, however, could spell bad news for a few fringe pitchers on the Reds roster. David Bell has confirmed that three notable pitchers might not make the 2025 roster.
1. Graham Ashcraft (RHP)
Graham Ashcraft has been a reliable part of the Reds’ rotation over the last few seasons, but his recent injury and inconsistent performances in 2024 have left him in a tough position. While Ashcraft was sidelined, other young arms, including Rhett Lowder, have stepped up. As a result, Ashcraft’s future in Cincinnati looks uncertain.
With a rotation potentially featuring Lowder, Nick Lodolo, Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, and others outperforming Ashcraft, he may not start 2025 in the majors. The Reds could either keep him in the minors to refine his skills, potentially as a reliever, or trade him to give him a fresh start. Despite these setbacks, his 98 MPH cutter suggests his major league career isn’t over yet.
2. Julian Aguiar (RHP)
Julian Aguiar was a breakout star in the Reds’ farm system, going from unranked to earning Minor League Pitcher of the Year honors in 2023. However, despite his promise, Aguiar has struggled since being promoted to the majors, posting an ERA close to 7.00.
While Aguiar has shown flashes of potential, Cincinnati’s depth in young pitching talent makes his spot on the roster tenuous. With top prospects like 2024 draft pick Chase Burns also rising through the ranks, Aguiar could find himself squeezed out of the rotation unless he can rebound quickly.
3. Brandon Williamson (LHP)
Brandon Williamson has shown promise but has been plagued by injuries in 2024, limiting his opportunities to build on his 2023 potential. While Williamson has a diverse mix of off-speed pitches from the left side, Cincinnati isn’t in dire need of left-handed starters, making his position on the roster vulnerable.
Currently viewed as the sixth or seventh starter, Williamson is likely to be edged out by the likes of Nick Martinez, a veteran who has performed well this season. Although Williamson still has a shot, the competition from young pitchers like Chase Burns might push him out of the starting rotation by the time the 2025 season begins.
Looking Ahead
With Rhett Lowder’s meteoric rise and Chase Burns potentially arriving in 2025, the Reds’ pitching rotation will likely include Lowder, Lodolo, Greene, and Abbott. The fifth spot is expected to go to Nick Martinez, but with Burns’ potential debut on the horizon, the Reds’ rotation could look quite different next season. Bell has also hinted that the team will be active in the reliever market, aiming to maximize the potential of the roster during this transitional period.
As the Reds prepare for the future, these roster changes reflect the team’s commitment to building a strong, young pitching core, but it leaves a few veteran and fringe pitchers in limbo.
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