In a recent announcement, the Cincinnati Reds made a series of roster cuts. The most notable cut was veteran right-hander Bryan Shaw. Despite signing a minor league deal with the Reds back in December, Shaw has decided to report to Triple-A Louisville. This decision comes after a challenging spring training, but Shaw’s experience and potential value to the team make this a significant development for the Reds’ bullpen depth.
Bryan Shaw’s Career and Recent Performance
Bryan Shaw, 37, has had a long and storied career in Major League Baseball. He was drafted in the second round by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008 and made his big league debut in 2011. Over 14 MLB seasons, he has pitched 764 1/3 innings, posting a 3.96 ERA (109 ERA+) and a 4.05 FIP. Shaw’s career has seen him play for several teams, including the Cleveland Guardians and the Chicago White Sox.
Recent Struggles
Despite his overall solid career numbers, Shaw has struggled with ineffectiveness over the past three seasons. During this period, he has pitched to a 5.00 ERA and a 4.54 FIP across 108 innings. His performance decline has limited his opportunities at the big league level. Last year, Shaw appeared in just five games for the White Sox before spending the rest of the season with the Angels’ Triple-A affiliate in Salt Lake, where he posted a 4.14 ERA in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.
Spring Training and Decision to Stay
Shaw’s spring training performance this year was a mixed bag. He posted a 4.05 ERA in seven appearances but struggled with control, walking nine batters while striking out only seven. Despite these challenges, Shaw has chosen to stay with the Reds organization and report to Triple-A Louisville. This decision is somewhat unusual for a veteran player, as many opt to explore free agency when reassigned to minor league camp.
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Manager’s Perspective
Reds manager Terry Francona, who managed Shaw for seven seasons in Cleveland, expressed his support for Shaw’s decision. *He wants to stay. The guy has pitched 16 years. I’ve seen him have springs like this and then he goes out and throws in 81 games and faces the middle of the order all the time. That just wasn’t the position he was in this spring and he’s inconsistent with the strike zone. His stuff is still fine. And we were thrilled he wants to go to Triple-A. He can still do it.*
Impact on Reds’ Bullpen Depth
Shaw’s decision to stay with the Reds and report to Triple-A Louisville is welcome news for the organization, given their relative lack of relief depth on the 40-man roster. The Reds’ bullpen situation is somewhat precarious, with only a few options available for depth.
Current Roster and Depth Options
The Reds’ 40-man roster includes some arms that could serve as rotation depth, such as Carson Spiers and Lyon Richardson, who could theoretically be used out of the bullpen. However, Yosver Zulueta is the only full-time reliever on the 40-man roster not already projected to make the club’s Opening Day bullpen. This leaves room for players not yet on the 40-man roster, like Shaw, to make a case for themselves at Triple-A and potentially earn a call-up during the season.
Shaw’s Potential Role in 2025
Given the frequency of injuries over a 162-game season, the Reds will likely need additional bullpen help at various points. Shaw’s experience and track record make him a valuable asset who could be called upon to fill in when needed. His decision to stay with the organization and work his way back to the majors demonstrates his commitment and belief in his ability to contribute at the big league level.
Future Outlook
If Shaw can regain some of his previous form and improve his control, he could provide the Reds with a reliable bullpen option. His veteran presence and experience in high-leverage situations could be invaluable for a team looking to contend. Additionally, Shaw’s willingness to accept a minor league assignment and work his way back up sets a positive example for younger players in the organization.
Conclusion
Bryan Shaw’s decision to report to Triple-A Louisville instead of exploring free agency is a significant development for the Cincinnati Reds.
Despite recent struggles, Shaw’s experience and potential value to the team’s bullpen depth make him an important asset.
As the season progresses, Shaw will have the opportunity to prove himself at Triple-A and potentially earn a call-up to the big league club.
For more details on Shaw’s reassignment, you can read the full article here.
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