Reds Notes: Nick Lodolo WBC, ex-Reds catcher DFA'd (again), Nick Castellanos drama

The Cincinnati Reds have a handful of participants set to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The most notable among them is newly-signed slugger Eugenio Suárez who will suit up for Team Venezuela next month. Reds prospect Edwin Arroyo and four other minor leaguers will also participate in this year's WBC.

One name you won't see on that list, however, is Reds starting pitcher Nick Lodolo. Cincinnati reporter Charlie Goldsmith revealed that Lodolo was approached by Team USA, but it would seem that a conversation with manager Terry Francona guided his decision-making.

Reds News: Nick Lodolo turns down opportunity to pitch in World Baseball Classic

Francona told Lodolo that he'd support his decision, but also stressed his desire to see the left-hander sign a hefty contract some day. "I want you to be wealthy as hell," Francona told Lodolo. The concern for Francona is obviously the wear and tear that an early-season ramp up for the WBC can have on a pitcher, and the Reds are chasing a championship in 2026.

Lodolo thought better of it, and rather than join Team USA, he'll be in Goodyear with his teammates. The Reds lefty is often overlooked by many outside the organization, but after stringing together 30 starts in 2025, Cincinnati has big plans for Lodolo in 2026. Reds fans should expect to see him on the mound during the first weekend of the season.

Reds News: Ben Rortvedt DFA'd again, former All-Star Nick Castellanos clashes with Phillies

Ben Rortvedt has endured a wild offseason. The backstop was signed to a Major League contract by the Los Angeles Dodgers, and then designated for assignment. LA attempted to pass him through waivers, but the Reds pounced at the opportunity to bring an experienced catcher into the fold.

But after Cincy added Suárez to the mix, Rortvedt was DFA'd and reclaimed by the Dodgers. But he'll be on the move again after Los Angeles DFA'd him a second time in order to make room for Evan Phillips. Will the Reds follow the Dodgers' lead and reclaim Rortvedt once again? If they did, it would require another corresponding roster move.

In other Reds news, former Cincinnati slugger Nick Castellanos is in the midst of a standoff with his current club. According to Philadelphia Phillies beat writer Matt Gelb, Castellanos has been asked to stay away from the team's spring training facility with expectation that he'll be traded or released in the coming days.

Will the Reds look to reunite with Castellanos? After signing Suárez to take over as the team's DH in 2026, bringing back Castellanos seems quite unlikely. But you should never say never.