Latest Reds roster cut adds clarity to Cincy's bullpen, but tough decisions remain

The Cincinnati Reds made yet another cut on Thursday. Former second-round draft pick Lyon Richardson was optioned and reassigned to minor-league camp. Cincinnati still has 37 players battling it out in camp for the chance to be part of the 2025 Reds Opening Day roster.

Richardson was actually one of the top performers for new Reds manager Terry Francona this spring. The right-hander made eight appearances during Cactus League play and struck out nine batters in nine innings of work. Richardson is transitioning from a starter into a reliever, and the Reds are hopeful that the 25-year-old can take on a hybrid role, similar to Nick Martinez from last season.

But barring a tremendous performance, or numerous injuries, Richardson was always going to start the 2025 season in minor leagues. So reassigning him does little more than narrow the field just a bit. Francona has some tough decisions ahead of him.

The Reds bullpen still is unsettled, even after reassigning Lyon Richardson

With Richardson out of the picture, the Reds have 10 pitchers vying for eight spots in the bullpen. Brent Suter, Emilio Pagán, Tony Santillan, Scott Barlow, and Taylor Rogers are all but locked into the Reds Opening Day bullpen. Alexis Díaz is likely to be part of the relief, and so is Sam Moll, despite the fact both pitchers have been underwhelming this spring.

Both Díaz and Moll have minor-league options remaining, so Reds fans shouldn't be shocked if one or both begin the 2025 season in Triple-A. But more than likely, the duo will be part of the Reds Opening Day roster.

But the Reds still have to make decisions regarding two starters who could become relievers. Is Graham Ashcraft destined for the Reds bullpen? His shortcomings this spring would suggest as much. What about Carson Spiers? He's out-pitched both Ashcraft and Andrew Abbott. Where does he fit in?

Then there's Ian Gibaut and Joe La Sorsa. The last two remaining non-roster invitees have looked great this spring, but squeezing both players onto the Reds Opening Day roster is no easy task. Francona will be hard-pressed to make these decisions in the coming days, but with a week remaining until Opening Day, those tough choices will have to be made one way or another.

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