Reds Opening Day roster projection 2.0: Rotation becomes clearer, bench still muddled

Reds Opening Day starting rotation (5)

• Hunter Greene
• Graham Ashcraft
• Andrew Abbott
• Frankie Montas
• Brandon Williamson

After the first week of Cactus League action, it looked as though the Cincinnati Reds starting rotation would be the best in baseball. Then everyone came back to reality after a few of the starters were roughed up during their second time on the hill.

But don't be discouraged; that's just how spring games work. Pitchers are working on improving mechanics or crafting a new pitch, and it's better to do that type of stuff when the games don't really matter.

Speaking of a new pitch, it would seem that Hunter Greene has ditched his changeup in lieu of a splitter and curveball. For those Reds fans constantly complaining about Greene's lack of third offering, keep an eye out for both pitches in 2024.

Frankie Montas and Andrew Abbott struggled their second time out, but both pitchers should be expected to be part of the Reds Opening Day roster. Graham Ashcraft appears to be healthy following season-ending surgery last year, so it's good to see the right-hander back on the mound this spring.

The same cannot be said for Nick Lodolo, who has yet to throw a pitch during a spring game. Until he does, Reds fans can't count on the former first-round pick to be part of Cincinnati's Opening Day roster. While Nick Martinez is an option, and a good one, don't be surprised if Brandon Williamson secures that final spot in the Reds starting rotation.