This prospect could join the roster if the Reds don't add a starter at the MLB trade deadline

While the Cincinnati Reds starting rotation has been brilliant of late, a lot experts throughout the industry expect the team to add a starting pitcher before the upcoming MLB trade deadline.

Both Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo are currently occupying the IL and while the Reds are 9-1 in Luke Weaver's last 10 starts, the team cannot afford to keep running the right-hander out to the mound every fifth day.

But after seeing the price that the Los Angeles Angels just paid to land Lucas Giolito, Reds GM Nick Krall may pivot away from adding a starting pitcher at the trade deadline.

Connor Phillips could join the roster if the Reds don't add a starter at the MLB trade deadline.

While many fans hope that a starter is on the docket at the trade deadline, there is a chance that it may not happen. In that case, Reds prospect Connor Phillips may make his major debut sooner than most people think he will.

In 19 games split between Double-A Chattanooga and Triple-A Louisville, Phillips is 3-2 with an ERA of 3.09. The right-hander has 139 whiffs and a WHIP of 1.36. Phillips' ability to strike out batters is mind-boggling. According to FanGraphs, Phillips owns an 11.72 K/9.

While the Reds have an impressive overall win-loss record with Luke Weaver on the bump, his subpar pitching has put the Reds in tough spots. Weaver's ERA currently sits at 7.20. Phillips, without a doubt, could take that spot in the rotation and send Weaver into the Reds bullpen.

The goal, of course, is for Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo return to the Cincinnati Reds rotation sooner rather than later. If the Reds are able to limp along until that time, perhaps calling upon Phillips won't be necessary.