3 pitchers who could start for Reds on Thursday while Andrew Abbott gets extra rest

3. Ben Lively could start for Reds on Thursday while Andrew Abbott gets extra rest.

Both Christian Roa and Carson Spiers would be more a one-and-done situation, but perhaps the Cincinnati Reds need something more permanent.

There haven't been many updates as to the status of Ben Lively, but he's been seen in the dugout, which would suggest he's overcome the illness that's kept him out of the rotation. Lively was on a rehab assignment last month before being placed on the COVID-19-related IL.

Lively's rehab stint in which he allowed 10 hits and 10 runs in 5.2 innings of work isn't exactly what the Reds were hoping to see last month. But six of those earned runs came in less than inning during a start on August 13th and was Lively's first action since landing on the IL with a pectoral injury.

With Graham Ashcraft on the IL and Nick Lodolo out for the year, the current Cincinnati rotation is comprised of Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, Brandon Williamson, and Connor Phillips. The Reds will eventually need a fifth starter, and it stands to reason that Ben Lively should be that guy.

Lively has already started 12 games for the Reds this season, and while the long ball has not been his friend, the right-hander brings a fire to the mound and isn't afraid to go at the opposing batter.

Lively has kept his walks in check, and if you set aside his two horrific performances against the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, the veteran has only allowed 24 runs in 66 innings (3.24 ERA). Ben Lively might be in line for more than just a spot-start this week.