Reds just exposed glaring roster problem after latest call-up for Cardinals' doubleheader

The Cincinnati Reds made an unexpected move ahead of Monday's doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals. Zach McCambley was called up as the Reds' 27th man, but Cincinnati also designated Ron Marinaccio for assignment and selected the contract of Kent Emanuel.

If you've never heard Emanuel's name, you're not alone. The 34-year-old journeyman had spent most of the 2026 season in the Atlantic League, and has just one game with the Reds' organization — a six-inning start for Triple-A Louisville last week.

The left-hander allowed just one run and two hits while striking out eight, so there's at least a modicum of hope that Game 1 of Monday's doubleheader against St. Louis won't be a complete disaster.

Emanuel was a third-round pick of the Houston Astros in 2013 after a collegiate career at the University of North Carolina. He's spent time with the Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Miami Marlins, and made his MLB debut in 2021.

Reds roster looks painfully thin after Cardinals' doubleheader call up

If nothing else, this latest roster move illustrates just how little depth the Reds have in the minor leagues. Hunter Greene was placed on the 60-day IL last week after undergoing Tommy John surgery, Brandon Williamson (shoulder) is still on a rehab assignment in the minors, and Julian Aguiar, Brandon Leibrandt, and José Franco are all on the seven-day IL at Triple-A. The Reds have virtually no impact arms available.

Williamson made a rehab appearance on Sunday, so there was no way he was going to be available to pitch in Cincinnati on Monday. Chase Petty was presumed to be an option, but he's been little more than a reliever in the big leagues this season. Pitcher like Kevin Abel, Jose Acuña, and Sam Benschoter could've received a look on Monday, but Emanuel is arguably as good, if not better, than all three of those players mentioned.

At the very least, Emanuel has Major League experience. He spent time in the big leagues with Houston in 2021 and Miami in 2024. The back of baseball card will show a 1-0 record with 4.58 ERA and 25 strikeouts. If he can just give Terry Francona five or six innings and keep the damage to a minimum, the Reds manager will be happy as a clam.

The lack of depth, however, is an indictment on Nick Krall and the Reds' front office. This year's team was supposed to be a contender. Instead, they're occupying the basement of the NL Central and have less than a 1% chance to return to the playoffs. Krall's seat should be getting quite warm, and this roster move should only turn up the heat even more.

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