Nick Martinez's acceptance of the qualifying offer from the Cincinnati Reds, coupled with the trade for Brady Singer, has sparked speculation about Graham Ashcraft's future role within the team. As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, pitching coach Derek Johnson emphasized that Ashcraft will initially compete for a starting position, with potential adjustments based on performance and team needs during spring training. Although Ashcraft faced challenges in 2024, including an elbow strain that sidelined him, Johnson reassured fans of his readiness to return to action in spring training.

Johnson expressed confidence in Ashcraft's abilities, stating, 'It’s hard to leave out that kind of arm and that kind of stuff.' While Ashcraft's recent performance has been scrutinized, with an ERA of 5.24 over 77.1 innings in 2024, he is reportedly in good health and committed to his rehabilitation. The Reds organization remains open to exploring various roles for Ashcraft, reaffirming their belief in his talent and potential contributions to the team's pitching depth.

FanGraphs has unveiled its projections for the Cincinnati Reds in 2025, suggesting the team is likely to hover around a .500 win-loss record. Elly De La Cruz is expected to be the standout performer, projected to achieve an fWAR of 5.0 with a batting line of .263/.335/.472, including 25 home runs and 54 stolen bases. Matt McLain, returning from shoulder surgery, is anticipated to be the second-best player with an fWAR of 4.0 and a batting average of .254.

While the catching duo of Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino is projected to contribute significantly with a combined fWAR of 3.6, the overall lineup is seen as underwhelming. The third base position, manned by Noelvi Marte, Santiago Espinal, and Jeimer Candelario, is forecasted to have the lowest fWAR on the team at just 0.7. On the pitching front, Hunter Greene is projected to maintain a solid performance, with a record of 8-7 and a 3.62 ERA.

However, the Reds' bullpen is viewed negatively, with a combined fWAR of -0.3, highlighting a need for improvement. The projections echo fan sentiments, indicating the necessity for the Reds to bolster their roster if they aim to contend effectively in 2025.

The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly interested in signing free-agent pitcher Nick Pivetta, according to a report by John Heyman from the New York Post. Pivetta, who has spent the last five years with the Boston Red Sox, recorded a 6-12 record with a 4.14 ERA in the 2024 season. His performance showcased an unusual trend, as he displayed reverse splits; right-handed batters had a significantly higher success rate against him compared to left-handed hitters. This aspect of his game may raise questions for potential suitors, particularly the Reds, who have already made moves to bolster their pitching staff by signing Nick Martinez and acquiring Brady Singer through a trade.

However, Pivetta's decision to decline a qualifying offer from the Red Sox complicates matters. If he were to sign with a new team, Boston would receive draft pick compensation, adding another layer to the negotiations. Over the past four seasons, Pivetta has consistently made at least 27 starts, indicating his durability and reliability as a starter. As the Reds explore their options for enhancing their pitching rotation, Pivetta's name emerges as a potential target, highlighting their ongoing efforts to strengthen the team for the upcoming season.

Roansy Contreras, once a top prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has signed with the Cincinnati Reds after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers. The 25-year-old pitcher debuted in the majors in 2021, recording a 9-12 record and a 4.83 ERA over four seasons with Pittsburgh.

Contreras joins a Reds rotation that includes Brady Singer and Nick Martinez, providing depth as they aim to improve in 2025. Meanwhile, the Pirates are also looking forward to a promising season with their young talents.

Elly De La Cruz, the Cincinnati Reds infielder, gained attention on social media after donning his National League All-Star jersey during a game in the Dominican Republic. This unique display highlights his rising star status in Major League Baseball.

Coming off a strong 2024 season, De La Cruz led the league with 67 stolen bases and hit 25 home runs, contributing to the Reds' competitive position in the National League Central. With the addition of manager Terry Francona and a solid young core, the Reds are looking to build on their success.