Cincinnati Reds Considering Reunion with Bronson Arroyo
By David Hill
Bronson Arroyo had his best years with the Cincinnati Reds. Now, over two years since his last pitch at the Major League level, the two sides are considering a reunion.
During his time with the Cincinnati Reds, Bronso Arroyo established himself as a solid middle of the rotation starter. In his eight seasons with Cincinnati, he pitched at least 199 innings every year, posting a 105-94 record with a 4.05 ERA and a 1.268 WHiP. He may not have been a star, but he was a good pitcher who helped solidify the Reds starting rotation.
However, arm and shoulder issues put his career in doubt. After his last start on June 15, 2014, Arroyo had Tommy John surgery. A comeback last season ended when he needed another season ending surgery, this time to repair a torn labrum. And yet, even though it has been over two and a half years since Arroyo pitched in a Major League game, the Reds are interested in a reunion.
There is mutual interest between Bronson Arroyo and the Reds, with on-going conversations about a possible deal. Team saw him throw recently
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 26, 2017
More from Call to the Pen
- Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
- Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
- Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
- Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
- 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals
On the surface, this potential reunion does not make much sense. The Reds are squarely in the midst of a rebuild, and no one can expect the soon to be 40 year old as a future building block. And yet, on a minor league contract, Arroyo could be an interesting piece for Cincinnati in 2017.
Should Arroyo be able to contribute on the field, what he could mean for the team in the clubhouse may make more of an impact. A veteran starter who has worked his way back from serious injury, he could serve as a mentor for the younger players on the Reds. And, if he does end up pitching well, Arroyo could even be a possible piece to move at the trade deadline.
Obviously, the first step would be to make sure that he is healthy. As the Reds have watched him throw recently, their discussions about a reunion should be taken as a positive sign in those regards. Of course, Arroyo looked healthy before the 2016 season as well, when he signed with the Washington Nationals.
Next: Phillies sign Hanigan to minor league deal
A reunion with the Cincinnati Reds may be in the works for Bronson Arroyo. If his arm can hold up, he could pay dividends on and off the field.