Cincinnati Reds: Three players who’ve excelled in expanded roles

1. Tyler Mahle, Reds starting pitcher

Expected to be part of the Reds bullpen this season, Tyler Mahle has inserted himself into the conversation to be part of the Cincinnati rotation next season. With Anthony DeSclafani and Trevor Bauer likely headed out of town via free agency, Mahle is the logical choice to supplant one of them in next year’s rotation.

Mahle was not the first choice among those selected to be part of this year’s starting rotation. After 12 losses in 2019, the Cincinnati front office decided to invest in Wade Miley as their fifth starter this season. In fact, before the pandemic hit, Mahle was expected to start the 2020 season at Triple-A Louisville.

An injury to fellow pitcher Anthony DeSclafani landed the right-hander on the injured list to begin the season and Mahle snagged a spot in the rotation. As soon as Disco returned to the team, Wade Miley suffered an injury that require a stint on the IL. DeSclafani’s trip to the paternity list and a slew of doubleheaders have seen Mahle start four of the five games in which he’s pitched.

Mahle’s strikeout-rate, according to FanGraphs, is at an all-time high. The California native is striking batters once every three at-bats. For a player who wasn’t even expected to be part of the Opening Day roster, Mahle has cashed in on his opportunities. With Wade Miley back on the IL, except Mahle to get another start this week.