BREAKING: Reds fans received guaranteed boost over slow spring start to open door for non-roster invitee to make the Reds bullpen spot
While much of the attention at the Cincinnati Reds’ spring training has been on the starting rotation, the bullpen is just as open to changes. Alexis Díaz, Emilio Pagán, and Tony Santillan are likely locks, along with left-handers Taylor Rogers and Brent Suter. Beyond them, competition is wide open, with some players stepping up and others potentially losing their spots.
One of the many players battling for a bullpen role is lefty Sam Moll. Based on past performance alone, he would have a strong case, but his recovery from a left shoulder injury has not gone as expected. Known for his ability to generate ground balls with solid control, Moll is now giving up more fly balls and, as of March 10, had thrown 44.4% (24 of 54) of his pitches for balls.
Sam Moll’s slow spring start could open the door for a non-roster invitee to make the Reds bullpen
Several young and ambitious relievers, including a wave of Reds prospects, are in the mix to take Sam Moll’s spot, but few have more at stake than Lenny Torres Jr. Once a highly regarded prospect in the Cleveland Guardians’ system, Torres saw his value decline due to Tommy John surgery, the COVID-related shutdowns, and a slow progression through the minors. The Reds took a chance on him with a minor league deal in December.
Since then, Torres has seized the opportunity. In five appearances, he has stranded every inherited runner while issuing just one walk and recording five strikeouts. His slider has been particularly sharp, and his fastball consistently hits the high 90s.
This opportunity is crucial for Torres. He made significant progress at Double-A in 2024, surpassing 50 innings for the first time since 2021 and cutting his walk rate by 6.4%. If he can carry that success into 2025, he could earn his major league debut—if not on Opening Day, then later in the season.
His strong performance, however, creates a dilemma for the Reds. Torres is not currently on the 40-man roster and would be eligible for the Rule 5 draft at the end of the year. He’ll have to fend off top prospects who are pushing for a major league opportunity in the coming months. For now, though, he is making a compelling case to take Moll’s place in the bullpen.