Cincinnati Reds: With Zach Duke DFA’d, Jimmy Herget will make his debut

One of the Cincinnati Reds’ top prospects is soon to make his major league debut. After designating Zach Duke for assignment, Jimmy Herget will get a shot.

Jimmy Herget, one of the top pitching prospects in the Cincinnati Reds‘ farm system will soon be making his major league debut. The right-hander was called-up to the big league club today after the Reds designated Zach Duke for assignment.

While I’m sure many Reds fans are happy to see Zach Duke designated for assignment, I wish the veteran nothing but the best. There’s a big probability, especially considering his 5.01 ERA and 18 walks in 23.1 innings pitched, that Duke may clear waivers and be outrighted the minor leagues.

However, while Duke’s departure was a long-time coming, so is Jimmy Herget’s promotion to the big leagues. If you can’t tell, I’m very excited to see Herget make his major league debut. Herget was promoted to the Reds’ 40-man roster last winter and is currently ranked No. 17 in the Reds’ farm system according to MLB Pipeline.

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Herget has a ridiculously deceptive delivery that will likely keep hitters guessing. He owns a 3.58 ERA for the Louisville Bats this season and 10.5 K/9, both of which are pretty solid. The biggest bugaboo for Herget at this point in time is his walk rate. His 5.73 BB/9 is a career-worst and much higher than last year’s 3.17.

Herget’s delivery includes a change in arm angles, tempo, and his stride. This guy just keeps the hitters guessing. He also possesses a 97-MPH fastball. Herget has a three-pitch repertoire that also includes a slider and an underdeveloped changeup.

The 25-year-old Herget projects as a capable bullpen arm and may eventually find his way into a setup or closers role. For now, I wouldn’t expect much more than a favorable right-handed matchup or two.

With the Milwaukee Brewers bevy of talented left-handed bats coming to town, it’s interesting that the Reds made this move now. However, Herget’s arsenal is more than enough to get key outs against the likes of Orlando Arcia, Keston Hiura, and the struggling Jesus Aguilar. Don’t expect David Bell to put Herget on the mound against Christian Yelich or Mike Moustakas.

I don’t wish ill-will on Zach Duke. The idea to bring in a LOOGY was sound, but Duke was not up for the challenge. Perhaps the Reds release him or he latches on with another team. There’s always the possibility he winds up on the Triple-A roster. For now, let’s get excited for Herget’s debut.