Reds finalize 2023 starting rotation with the addition of these 2 pitchers

It's been a topic of debate throughout the entire spring - who would grab the last two spots in the Cincinnati Reds starting rotation?

We knew before pitchers and catchers arrived in Goodyear that Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Graham Ashcraft would comprise 60-percent of the rotation, but it was that other 40-percent that was surrouded with questions marks.

We now have our answer. The Reds announced on Friday that Connor Overton and Luis Cessa would be the fourth and fifth starters in the Cincinnati rotation to begin the 2023 season.

Reds news: Connor Overton, Luis Cessa named to the 2023 starting rotation.

With the latest rash of injuries, it's not surprising that Connor Overton and Luis Cessa received the nod from Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell. Overton, who pitched poorly to begin the spring, has been better of late. Cessa, who spent time with Team Mexico during the World Baseball Classic, returned to the team last week.

Overton was the Reds best pitcher for about a three-week stretch in 2022 before landing on the IL with a back injury. Overton did not return to the team until September and made just two appearances to finish out his rookie season, both of which came in relief.

Cessa took the opposite approach, as the right-hander was one of the team's best relievers to start the 2022 season. But several injuries shortly after the trade deadline warranted Cessa inclusion into the rotation.

The decision regarding these final two spots in the Reds starting rotation came less than 24 hours after Brandon Williamson pitched horrifically in what was his final game of the spring. The left-hander couldn't even make it out of the third inning and was optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Friday.

Williamson will be joined by fellow pitching prospect Levi Stoudt and veteran Chase Anderson. The two remaining spots in the Louisville Bats starting rotation are still up in the air.