Michael Pineda
The future of the Cincinnati Reds rotation appears to be bright.
Nick Lodolo and Hunter Greene showed their potential last year and could be a pair of front of the rotation arms that the Reds can build around. Graham Ashcraft may not be in the same stratosphere of potential, but he generated grounders at an impressive clip and could be a solid back of the rotation arm. Justin Dunn has plenty of potential but has battled injuries. This could be a solid group.
But it is also a group that could use a veteran arm to help guide them through the season. Adding someone who has been through the battles, fought his way back from injury, and has been through the highs and lows of both a season and career could make a difference. That makes a pitcher such as Michael Pineda all the more interesting.
Pineda had a miserable season in 2022 as he battled injuries. He posted a 5.79 ERA and a 1.414 WHiP over his 46.2 innings, striking out 26 batters with eight walks while allowing 13 homers. At this point, Pineda could be looking at a minor league deal or a low cost major league contract, either of which would put him on the Reds’ radar. Pitching in Great American Ball Park may not be conducive to impressive results, but if Pineda is healthy, he could be the type of bargain that the Reds need.
The Cincinnati Reds need a veteran arm as part of their rotation. Michael Pineda could be just the pitcher they need.