As we dive into the early weeks of the 2025 MLB season, the landscape is beginning to take shape. The Los Angeles Dodgers, as anticipated, are already making headlines with their explosive play, riding an impressive eight-game winning streak to kick off the year. However, amidst the early-season hype, one team that’s quietly emerging as a force to watch is the Cincinnati Reds.
With a 5-7 record, the Reds haven’t exactly set the world on fire, but don’t let that fool you. There’s a lot more brewing beneath the surface, particularly when it comes to their pitching staff—a group that deserves some serious recognition for its early dominance.
Let’s take a closer look at the Reds’ rotation, which might just be one of the most formidable in all of Major League Baseball right now. Starting with Hunter Greene has been a gem. With three starts under his belt, Greene has a record of 1-1 and an eye-popping 1.31 ERA, along with a strikeout rate of 10.0 K/9. He’s not just filling a role; he’s locking down his position with the authority we expect from a rising star.
Nick Lodolo has also been stellar, holding an impressive 0.96 ERA across three starts, coupled with a 2-1 record. His ability to keep hitters at bay has been crucial for the team. Then we have Brady Singer, who has stepped onto the scene with a 2.25 ERA and a perfect 2-0 record in two starts, showcasing his potential as a significant contributor to the rotation.
However, the back end of the rotation shows we might need to temper our expectations for now. Both Nick Martinez and Carson Spiers have struggled a bit, with ERAs of 5.91 and 4.82, respectively, and both looking for a way to solidify their roles. It’s important to remember, though, that these early-season numbers don’t tell the whole story. The Reds’ rotation will soon be bolstered by key pieces like Andrew Abbott and No. 2 prospect Rhett Lowder, who are both working their way back from injuries. Abbott is expected to return in a matter of days, especially after Spiers was sent to the minors, while Lowder is anticipated to rejoin the lineup next month.
Even with a couple of key pitchers sidelined, this rotation has still found ways to dominate opposing lineups, often going deep into games while flirting with impeccable run prevention. To put it simply, these early numbers are nothing short of sensational.
If the Reds can harness this pitching prowess and their bats can find their rhythm, Cincinnati fans should be buzzing with excitement. The potential playoff run for the Reds could very well be in the cards for the first time since 2020. Keep an eye on this team; their upward trajectory could surprise many as the season unfolds.
