2 starters the Reds could sign to a one-year deal, and 1 to avoid altogether

Rather than signing a starter for multiple seasons, the Reds may prefer to ink a pitcher to a one-year pact.

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Michael Lorenzen
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Michael Lorenzen | Rich Schultz/GettyImages
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The Reds could sign Michael Lorenzen to a one-year deal

Some Reds fans will hate this idea, while others will absolutely love it. But whether you're a fan of Michael Lorenzen or want him to stay as far away from Cincinnati as possible, a reunion with the right-hander could be on the horizon should the Reds extend a one-year offer.

Lorenzen obviously has familiarity with the Cincinnati Reds organization. But after working almost exclusively as a reliever while pitching for ther Reds, in recent years, the former first-round pick has tried his hand as a starter.

In 2022, Lorenzen toed the rubber for the Los Angeles Angels. Last season, Lorenzen signed with the Detroit Tigers, but was ultimately traded to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Lorenzen actually pitched a no-hitter for the Phillies last season, but then his production dropped off and the hard-throwing right-hander fell out of favor with manager Rob Thompson. Lorenzen was relegated to a bullpen role to close out his 2023 campaign.

While Michael Lorenzen will undoubtedly be looking to secure a multi-year deal this offseason, that may not be in the cards for the southern California native. The best Lorenzen might be able to find would be a deal similar to that of the Reds recent addition, Nick Martinez.

Lorenzen could fill a very similar role with the ability to operate as a starter or come out of the bullpen. As the Reds continue to develop some of their young pitchers, Lorenzen could help bridge the gap and give the team qualtity innings in 2024.

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