- Sun Mar 23, 2025 4:51 pm
#8892
The Cincinnati Reds are facing a challenging start to the 2025 season with the news that closer Alexis Diaz will begin the year on the injured list due to hamstring inflammation. This raises some intriguing questions about the team's bullpen strategy and the potential for a closer by committee approach.
With Ian Gibaut and Graham Ashcraft stepping into key roles, how do you see their performances shaping the Reds' chances early in the season? Gibaut, who had a stellar 2022 season but struggled with injuries last year, is now out of options. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the pressure of being on the 40-man roster weigh him down?
Ashcraft, on the other hand, has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency this spring. Could this be the moment he transforms into a reliable closer, or will the lack of experience in high-pressure situations hold him back? Some fans believe he has the mentality and stuff to thrive in the role, while others argue that the nuances of closing are vastly different from pitching in earlier innings.
What are your thoughts on the Reds' bullpen situation? Do you think Ashcraft should be given the first shot at closing duties, or should the team rely on more experienced options like Barlow or Rogers? And how do you feel about the overall depth of the bullpen with Diaz out?
Let’s dive into the discussion! What are your bold predictions for the Reds' bullpen this season, and how do you think the team should navigate these early challenges?
With Ian Gibaut and Graham Ashcraft stepping into key roles, how do you see their performances shaping the Reds' chances early in the season? Gibaut, who had a stellar 2022 season but struggled with injuries last year, is now out of options. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the pressure of being on the 40-man roster weigh him down?
Ashcraft, on the other hand, has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency this spring. Could this be the moment he transforms into a reliable closer, or will the lack of experience in high-pressure situations hold him back? Some fans believe he has the mentality and stuff to thrive in the role, while others argue that the nuances of closing are vastly different from pitching in earlier innings.
What are your thoughts on the Reds' bullpen situation? Do you think Ashcraft should be given the first shot at closing duties, or should the team rely on more experienced options like Barlow or Rogers? And how do you feel about the overall depth of the bullpen with Diaz out?
Let’s dive into the discussion! What are your bold predictions for the Reds' bullpen this season, and how do you think the team should navigate these early challenges?
- By Anonymous