Reds Face Starting Pitching Crisis After Spiers’ Injury

MIAMI – The Cincinnati Reds are facing a significant challenge in their starting pitching depth following an injury to Carson Spiers. Spiers revealed over the weekend that he has a shoulder ‘impingement’ that will keep him sidelined until after the All-Star break. General manager Brad Meador expressed concerns about the team’s rotation on Tuesday, stating, ‘We have the depth but not necessarily right now.’

The injury leaves the Reds without trusted depth in a rotation that is supposed to be their strength in the National League Central. With Spiers out, the team lacks a reliable starter beyond their current five pitchers, potentially until June. This situation raises the stakes for the pitching staff as they navigate a challenging May schedule.

In a crucial performance on Tuesday night, Nick Martinez showcased his talent despite his previous struggles this season. Starting with a 6.00 ERA and winless record, Martinez delivered a near-quality start, retiring 12 of 13 batters after a shaky first inning. His efforts gave the Reds a one-run lead before handing the game over to Graham Ashcraft, who was unable to maintain it, resulting in a 4-3 loss to Miami.

Veteran left-hander Wade Miley is also on the comeback trail from Tommy John surgery, but his return has been pushed back to June due to cautious management by the team. On Tuesday, Miley faced challenges in a minor-league rehab start with High-A Dayton, allowing six earned runs in just over two innings.

Another Reds pitcher, Rhett Lowder, is also on the mend from a forearm strain. Lowder, last season’s rookie sensation, is set for a bullpen session this Saturday, pending progress toward a potential rehab assignment. Meador emphasized the need for time before they can count on both Lowder and Miley being ready to pitch again.

The depth issues became apparent when Spiers couldn’t start after pitching four innings of relief in his last outing. The Reds called up Randy Wynne from the minors to help cover the bullpen, as other prospects like Chase Petty struggled to find their form in Louisville.

After having an MRI on Monday that confirmed the impingement, the plan for Spiers involves a six-week shutdown from throwing. He will focus on strengthening the affected area, with an estimated recovery timeline of about three months to return to competitive form.