Chase Anderson makes his case for 2023 Reds rotation in dominant spring debut

Chase Anderson may not have formally received an invite to major league spring training, but after signing a minor-league deal with the Cincinnati Reds last month, the 35-year-old made his spring debut on Monday night against the Colorado.

While it's just an exhibition game, Anderson looked sharp. In just two innings of work, Anderson struck out five of the nine batters he faced. The right-hander issued just one walk and two hits.

Anderson is on the outside looking in when it comes to finding a spot in the Cincinnati starting rotation. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Graham Ashcraft have solidified their spots, and other hurlers have the inside track thus far. But don't count out Anderson making a run at the Reds Opening Day roster.

Chase Anderson makes his case for 2023 Reds rotation in spring debut.

Chase Anderson has a relationship with pitching coach Derek Johnson from their time together in Milwaukee. From 2017-2018, under Johnson's tutelage, Anderson owned a 3.37 ERA and 1.143 WHIP in nearly 300 innings of work.

Anderson was, however, victimized by the long ball during that stretch with the Brewers, giving up 44 home runs and leading the league with 30 round trippers surrendered in 2018.

But the competition for the final two spots in the Cincinnati rotation are not that fierce. Luis Cessa is probably the favorite to win the No. 4 spot, but there are still questions about whether or not he ultimately ends up in the bullpen. With Cessa off to the World Baseball Classic this week, Anderson's opportunities to showcase his talents will only increase.

Speaking of the bullpen, Anderson could easily join the relief ranks if he fails to secure a spot in the Cincinnati Reds rotation. While he's a starter by trade, the last four seasons have seen Anderson make 15 of his 65 appearances out of the bullpen.

Cessa, Luke Weaver, Connor Overton, and left-handed prospect Brandon Williamson are leading the charge for those final two spots at the moment. But don't sleep on Chase Anderson making a run at the Cincinnati Reds starting rotation if he continues to dominate the opposition the way he did on Monday night.