3 players Reds' fans should lower the bar for in 2024

2. Tejay Antone

Reds fans had such high hopes for Tejay Antone. During the abbreviated 2020 season, Antone proved to be one of the most versatile pitchers on the staff. Then in 2021, Antone became the Reds' most reliable reliever.

Unfortunately, Antone blew out his elbow midway through the 2021 season and had to undergo Tommy John surgery for the second time in his career. Antone's rehab took him out for the entire 2022 season, but he was expected to be full-go last year.

But Antone suffered another setback prior to spring training that delayed his return until almost the end of the 2023 season. While Antone was finally able to return to the mound, which was a feat in and of itself, the right-hander suffered another injury in September and was placed on the 60-day IL.

Anything the Reds receive from Antone in 2024 should be considered a bonus. Reds fans should enter the upcoming season with absolutely zero expectations for Antone. That doesn't mean that the Reds' reliever can't set a high bar for himself, but Antone's track record just doesn't allow for any sort of projection.

When he's 100-percent, you could make the argument that Tejay Antone is the best reliever in the Cincinnati bullpen. But the Reds have added enough relievers this winter that they won't be reliant on Antone to be "the guy". Instead, he can just one of the guys.