Pitchers and catchers for the Cincinnati Reds are officially scheduled to report to Goodyear for spring training on Monday, February 10th, according to the team’s social media, or Wednesday, February 12th, per the calendar on their website. Regardless, players are not required to be there yet—but some have already arrived. Broadcaster Chris Welsh, who is in Goodyear, noted that multiple pitchers were already throwing bullpen sessions, along with the presence of manager Terry Francona.
Among those Welsh mentioned were Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, Taylor Rogers, Sam Moll, and Connor Phillips, though others were also present.
Lodolo, who turns 27 today, finished the 2024 season on the injured list due to a sprained middle finger on his pitching hand. It was just one of several injuries he dealt with last season, including a calf strain, a groin strain, and a blister. He managed 21 starts but struggled late in the year, posting a 7.54 ERA over his final nine outings. Seeing him already throwing bullpen sessions is a positive sign for his health and readiness.
Abbott and Moll also ended 2024 on the injured list and are already at the complex. Abbott pitched consistently until late August when a shoulder strain sidelined him. While injuries are common for pitchers, shoulder issues tend to be more concerning than elbow injuries. Moll, meanwhile, began the year on the IL, returned in April, and then was shut down in September due to shoulder impingement. Having both pitchers back on the mound early is encouraging.
Phillips made his major league debut in 2023, making five starts with a 6.97 ERA. However, he struggled in Triple-A in 2024, leading to a stint in Goodyear to work on his mechanics. Before his demotion, he had walked 50 batters, hit six more, and allowed 15 home runs in just 57 innings, leading to a 10.11 ERA. When he returned for the final month, he showed improvement, posting a 2.49 ERA in five starts. Once considered a top prospect, his struggles raised concerns about his control and long-term role as a starter. His early arrival suggests he’s determined to regain his form.
Newly acquired reliever Taylor Rogers, traded from the Giants last week, is also at the facility ahead of schedule. Unlike the others, he was healthy and effective in 2024, recording a 2.40 ERA over 60 innings with 64 strikeouts. His early arrival may be an effort to get familiar with his new team and surroundings before official workouts begin next week.
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