Report: Red confirms major decision on Graham Ashcraft after All-Star closer transition

Graham Ashcraft finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. Even if he proves his health and effectiveness as a starter in spring training, a transition to the bullpen seems almost inevitable. While he could see this as a demotion or a sign of doubt, embracing the role and taking inspiration from one of the league’s top relievers could turn him into a dominant weapon.

The main critique of Ashcraft as a starter is his reliance on just two primary pitches. While he technically has a sinker and changeup, hitters can often sit on his cutter or slider and capitalize. However, in a bullpen role, a two-pitch arsenal isn’t necessarily a weakness. Just look at Emmanuel Clase, the reigning AL Reliever of the Year and a Cy Young finalist, who thrives with a similar approach.

Graham Ashcraft’s move to the Reds bullpen could allow him to remake himself in the mold of Guardians closer Emmanual Clase

While Ashcraft becoming a direct replica of Emmanuel Clase is unlikely, he can certainly take cues from the Guardians’ closer to refine his game. Like Clase, Ashcraft relies on a cutter-slider combo that can make hitters look foolish. In fact, his slider already compares well to Clase’s, generating more glove-side break and inducing whiffs at a higher rate.

His cutter, however, needs work. While Clase effectively commands his cutter across the entire zone, Ashcraft primarily locates his down and away to right-handers. What makes Clase’s cutter so effective is its unique movement—it doesn’t drop much vertically but instead appears to rise as it zips through the zone, playing perfectly off his sharply breaking slider.

For Ashcraft to mimic this effect, he’ll need to increase his cutter’s spin rate. In 2024, his cutter averaged 2,416 RPM, while Clase’s sat at 2,583 RPM. A shift to the bullpen could help Ashcraft make this adjustment. With shorter outings, he can focus on refining his grip, maximizing effort, and potentially increasing both his velocity and spin.

Ashcraft has already proven himself to be tough and resilient throughout his career. If he approaches this transition with the same intensity—and takes some notes from today’s elite relievers—he could become a major force in the Reds’ bullpen.