Signing Chase Anderson seems like a no-brainer for the Reds

While there are those throughout the fanbase that want to see the Cincinnati Reds go "all in" on their youth movement, the cold, hard truth is that this club needs to sign at least one veteran pitcher prior to spring training.

Rumors emerged on Thursday of the Reds' interest in a reunion with former pitcher Johnny Cueto. That scenario could play out quite well for Cincinnati after watching the two-time All-Star experience a resurgent season in 2022, but Cueto's price tag might be a bit too much for the budget-conscience Reds.

Instead, Cincinnati should look to re-sign Chase Anderson. The right-hander joined the Reds late last season, and after shaking off the rust, pitched quite well down the stretch.

Signing Chase Anderson seems like a no-brainer for the Reds.

No, Chase Anderson is going to garner much fanfare, but that's the point. In case you haven't noticed, the Cincinnati Reds have no interest in actually fielding a World Series contender in 2023. The only major league signing the front office has made was Luke Maile. The Kentucky native is slated to be Tyler Stephenson's backup next season.

Anderson appeared in nine games for the Reds last season, including seven starts. His familiarity with Derek Johnson, who was his pitching coach in Milwaukee, was a big reason that Anderson came to Cincinnati.

In those nine games, Anderson owned a 6.38 ERA and struck out 23 batters over 23 innings of work. No, that's nothing to write home about. But, a four-game stretch during the month of September saw the veteran post a 2.50 ERA and 3.11 FIP while allowing opponents to hit just .150 against him.

With Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Graham leading the way in 2023, the Cincinnati Reds don't need a No. 1 starter. And it's not as if the Reds ownership is going to pay that price for a high-level free agent anyway.

The Reds saw 17 different starting pitchers in 2022. That cannot happen again in 2023. Signing a veteran like Chase Anderson is a good way to help solidify the Cincinnati starting rotation next season.