Reds’ Gibaut Secures Opening Day Roster Spot After Strong Spring

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Reds announced Tuesday that they have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Ian Gibaut from Triple-A Louisville, making him part of the team’s Opening Day roster.

Gibaut, 31, has a history with Cincinnati, having spent the past two and a half seasons with the team. After being non-tendered in November, he returned on a minor league deal and impressed during spring training, allowing five runs over 11 innings with a 4.09 earned run average, striking out 12 while issuing three walks.

In his two-plus seasons with the Reds, Gibaut has accumulated a 3.77 ERA across 112 1/3 innings, with a notable strikeout rate of 24.5% against a 9.8% walk rate. This consistent performance has made him a solid addition to the bullpen under manager Terry Francona, who is entering his first season with the squad.

“I’m glad to see Gibaut back. He pitched in close to 80 games in 2023,” a Reds supporter commented. “He’s not elite, but he’s a solid guy to have in the pen.”

Gibaut’s journey has included stints with five different Major League teams, including the Reds, Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins, Cleveland Guardians, and Tampa Bay Rays. Over his six-year career, he has appeared in 137 games with an overall ERA of 4.10.

This year, Gibaut finds himself in a competitive bullpen alongside other notable relievers, and with 3.077 years of big league service time, he is controllable for two additional years if the Reds opt for arbitration. However, he is out of minor league options, meaning he must remain on the major league roster or clear waivers before being sent down.

“I’ve been waiting for Gibaut’s return. If he can pitch the way he did in 2023, this will be a good move,” another fan shared. “But he must perform to stay in Cincinnati with strong competition from other talented pitchers.”

As the Reds finalize their roster ahead of the season opener, Gibaut remains focused on securing his spot and contributing meaningfully to the team’s success.

The Reds’ management and fans will be watching closely in hopes that Gibaut can replicate or exceed his past performances this upcoming season.