The Cincinnati Reds reinstated left-hander Andrew Abbott from the injured list earlier today, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. Abbott is set to start tonight’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. To make room on the roster, outfielder Will Benson has been optioned to Triple-A.
Abbott, who turns 26 in June, established himself as a solid piece of the Reds’ rotation during his 2023 rookie season, posting a 3.87 ERA (120 ERA+) with a 26.1% strikeout rate over 21 starts. However, his second year was more uneven.
Despite a comparable 3.72 ERA and 118 ERA+, his strikeouts dropped significantly to 19.5%, and his home run rate spiked, resulting in a less impressive 5.02 FIP over 25 starts.
The lefty impressed in limited Spring Training action, tossing seven innings with a 2.57 ERA, five strikeouts, and just one walk. However, due to a slow ramp-up following a shoulder strain that ended his 2024 season early, Abbott began 2025 on the injured list.
He made two rehab starts at Triple-A Louisville, where he posted a 3.60 ERA, and now returns to the big league rotation.
Abbott rejoins a rotation that includes Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Nick Martinez, and Brady Singer. With the Reds aiming for their first playoff appearance since 2020, this group will be key.
The eventual return of top prospect Rhett Lowder from injury may create a rotation crunch, and Abbott could be a candidate to shift out if he struggles—though Martinez may be more likely to move to the bullpen, where he’s been effective in the past.
Benson, who was called up just earlier this week, only appeared in one game—striking out in all four plate appearances. It’s a stark contrast to his standout 2023 season, where he hit .275 with a .365 OBP and .498 slugging percentage.
His 2024 performance, however, has been disappointing. In limited action, he’s struck out in nearly 40% of his at-bats and posted a 75 wRC+, which led to him falling out of the team’s core plans despite a hot start at Triple-A this year.
For now, the Reds will continue using Gavin Lux, Blake Dunn, Jacob Hurtubise, and Jake Fraley in the corner outfield while Austin Hays remains on the IL. TJ Friedl continues to patrol center field as the everyday starter.
