The are down two starters in its rotation with Wade Miley and Sonny Gray departing before the 2022 spring training started.
Nick Lodolo is one candidate to replace them. The Reds first pick in the 2019 draft has been in camp for a month as a minor leaguer. Manager David Bell gave him the ball to start the Cactus League season because he was able to get some throwing in.
The 24-year old lefty out of Texas Christian University, rolled through the newly named Cleveland Guardians. Lodolo retired all six batters he faced, striking out four, including Franmil Reyes, Bobby Bradley and Bradley Zimmer in the second frame.
"It has been a long time," said Lodolo of facing Major League hitters. "It helped that I have been here throwing. I was crisp. I think that is a good word. it didn't take long to get comfortable on the mound."
Lodolo made 10 starts with Chattanooga last season. He was 2-1 with a 1.84 ERA which earned him a promotion to Louisville. He made three starts for the Bats, going 0-1 with a 5.40 ERA.
The pressure to earn a spot in the starting rotation is non existent to Lodolo. "It is the same as always. I just want to come in and get the work done."
David Bell has noticed a change.
"He looks more mature and strong," Bell said. "He pitched with confidence. He had a good fast ball, cutter and got a couple strikeouts with his change up."
Brandon Williamson, who was acquired in the trade with Seattle for Jesse Winker and Eugenio Suarez, on Monday, followed with two innings. He allowed a run on three hits.
Lodolo and Williamson were teammates at TCU and are still roommates in the off season.
"Williamson had good mound presence," Bell said. "He and Lodolo looked similar."
The Reds jumped to a two-run lead when Joey Votto singled, Tyler Stephenson doubled and Nick Senzel hit a double. Senzel is trying to stay healthy for the first time in his professional career and win the starting center field job. Winker and Nick Castellanos are missing after being part of last year's starting outfield.
"Nick looked good. He's moving pretty well," Bell said.
Jake Fraley, acquired from Seattle last week, Shogo Akiyama, Aristedes Aquino, Allan Cerda, T.J. Friedl and Tyler Naquin are also in the mix. Aquino is out of options.
The Guardians broke a 2-2 tie in the late innings to take the only meeting between these teams this spring.
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