Cincinnati Reds Face Decisions on Starting Rotation Talents

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Reds are approaching a pivotal moment as they consider their starting rotation options. With talented pitchers like Nick Lodolo, Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, and Chase Burns, tough decisions await the front office.

Despite Greene’s past as an All-Star, ongoing health concerns make his future uncertain. Injuries have plagued him throughout his career, and he is currently on the injured list due to a groin issue. Though he has a team-friendly contract, the Reds need to evaluate their reliance on him as an ace.

Lodolo has impressed this season and is arbitration eligible in 2026, becoming a free agent in 2027. Fans want to see him continue with the team after his breakout performances. However, with a pool of young pitchers, his long-term position may be in flux.

Abbott, another notable starter, won’t hit arbitration until 2027 and remains under team control until after 2029. The Reds should prioritize extending his contract during the offseason, given his potential.

Burns has had an outstanding start to his season, including two games with double-digit strikeouts. While there’s no immediate need to label him as the rotation’s future face, securing him with a team-friendly extension could be beneficial if the Reds view him as a long-term asset.

Once considered the future with Greene, Lodolo, and Graham Ashcraft, the rotation’s focus may now shift to Abbott, Burns, and potentially Rhett Lowder. As the season progresses, these decisions will have significant implications for the Reds.