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Clock is ticking for this savvy veteran, but Reds just threw him a lifeline

It's now or never for Wade Miley to join the squad.
ByAbigail Miskowiec|
Sep 19, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Wade Miley (22) throws a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-Imagn Images
Sep 19, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Wade Miley (22) throws a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-Imagn Images | David Kohl-Imagn Images

Trade season started early for the Reds as they rid themselves of former All-Star closer Alexis Diaz in a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the trade may seem like too little too late, Diaz’s exit opens up a coveted spot on the 40-man roster. The timing couldn’t be better for rehabbing starter Wade Miley.

When Miley signed a minor league deal this offseason, his inclusion on the team hinged on his successful recovery from Tommy John surgery. With that in mind, the two sides agreed upon a June 1 opt-out clause. A few setbacks in Miley’s rehab have passed the time quickly, and the lefty and the team are now staring down the deadline.

Alexis Diaz trade may be the opening Reds pitcher Wade Miley needed

Miley has worked his way up to five innings, and despite a disastrous start at Triple-A on Sunday, he seems stretched out enough to slot into the rotation. With the Reds starters firing on all cylinders lately, a move to the bullpen where he can fill in as an opener or spot starter seems more likely.

Following the Diaz trade, Lyon Richardson was recalled to fill the gap in the 26-man roster, and while the rookie has met with success in his 10 appearances in the majors this year, his 4.54 FIP indicates there may still be some work to do before the Reds can rely on him full time. Miley could be an enticing option to fill that long relief role.

Miley also would be stepping in just as the veteran lefties in the ‘pen have hit the skids. In the recent series against the Chicago Cubs, Brent Suter and Taylor Rogers combined for six runs allowed in 3 ⅓ innings (including Rogers’ blown save during which he failed to record an out). The pair had been stellar up until this point.

It’s possible, though, that while there is a spot on the 40-man, there isn’t really a place for Miley among the 26-man roster. He’s been streaky in his rehab starts, and he’s been overshadowed by Aaron Wilkerson of late. Perhaps, for both the Reds and Miley, the end of the journey is just around the corner.

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