Reds manager David Bell made the right call removing Justin Dunn after just 63 pitches

Justin Dunn was cruising along last night and all of the sudden, Derek Law was on the hill for the Cincinnati Reds to begin the fifth inning. Dunn has allowed just one run on three hits and was sitting at just 63 pitches when David Bell removed the right-hander from the game.

It was revealed after the Reds 5-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals that Dunn was battling some shoulder stiffness and the decision was made to play it safe and get the 26-year-old off the field.

Of course Dunn was upset. Reports from the field indicated he was frustrated, as would be the case with most competitors. But, Bell made the call and it appears as though Dunn is still in line to make his next start.

Reds manager David Bell made the right call removing Justin Dunn.

Justin Dunn missed over 400 days with a shoulder injury that he suffered while playing for the Seatle Mariners in 2021. So forgive Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell if he wants to be a bit cautious when it comes to what could a key piece of the starting rotation moving forward.

Dunn was making just his fifth start of the season, but was well below the 92 pitches he hurled toward the plate in last Thursday's loss at Philadelphia. Dunn went six innings versus the Phillies and recorded five punch outs while allowing just two earned runs.

Cincinnati skipper David Bell did not hesitate when asked about Justin Dunn's short outing. The move was purely precautionary and it isn't expected to effect him going forward. Here's a quote from the Reds manager via MLB.com:

"As far as Justin's concerned, he's been pitching really well. We just want to make sure we keep him going in the right direction with his injuries. I'm very confident he'll be back to make his next start."

- David Bell, Reds manager

When might Dunn's next start be? It'll most likely be Monday in Chicago versus the Cubs. In fact, the Cincinnati Reds have an off day on Thursday, so Dunn will get an added day of rest to recuperate from his latest solid outing.