The Cincinnati Reds have made significant upgrades to their bullpen this offseason, turning what was once a concern into a potential strength heading into Opening Day.
On Tuesday, the Reds reached an agreement with former Kansas City Royals closer Scott Barlow on a one-year, $2.5 million contract, pending a physical. Barlow, who spent six seasons with the Royals before being traded to the San Diego Padres in 2023, appeared in 63 games for the Cleveland Guardians in 2024.
Reds fortify bullpen after signing former KC Royals closer Scott Barlow
Barlow began his major league career as a middle reliever but emerged as the Royals’ closer in 2021. That season, he recorded 91 strikeouts in 74 ⅓ innings with a 2.42 ERA. He followed it up in 2022 with 24 saves, 77 strikeouts, and 69 relief appearances.
With Barlow now in the mix, the Reds’ bullpen appears mostly set for Opening Day. If healthy, he’ll join a group that includes Alexis Díaz, Tony Santillan, Brent Suter, Sam Moll, Emilio Pagán, and Taylor Rogers. The final bullpen spot remains up for grabs, with many Reds fans hoping for Buck Farmer’s return to Goodyear later this month.
Additionally, Nick Martinez, who is expected to start the season in the rotation, could transition to a relief role later in the year, further strengthening Cincinnati’s bullpen.
The Reds also bolstered their depth by signing right-hander Josh Staumont to a minor-league deal on Tuesday. The 31-year-old, a former Royal, posted a 3.70 ERA in 25 appearances for the Minnesota Twins last season and will receive an invite to spring training.
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