The Cincinnati Reds enter a pivotal three-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, sitting just 1½ games behind the New York Mets for the final NL Wild Card spot. With a crucial matchup against the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers looming next, winning this series is key but first, the Reds must address a bullpen in need of fresh arms.
After cycling through multiple relievers to ease the workload, one more roster move is necessary. Luis Mey, despite his high-velocity fastball, has shown unreliable command, walking three of the four batters he faced in Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. As a result, the Reds are expected to option Mey back to Triple-A Louisville before Monday’s opener against Philadelphia.
A likely replacement is former top prospect Connor Phillips, who has rebounded in Triple-A with a 2.95 ERA, 21 strikeouts, and a .129 opponent batting average over his last 18â…“ innings. However, command remains a concern, with Phillips walking 14.3% of batters faced.
Another option is Zach Maxwell, a high-upside arm with a 1.17 ERA and 13 strikeouts over his last seven Triple-A outings. While his control issues mirror those of Mey and Phillips, his recent form suggests improvement.
With Hunter Greene set to return soon, one of Nick Martinez or Chase Burns is expected to shift into a relief role. That change, combined with removing Mey from the bullpen, could help stabilize Cincinnati’s pitching staff heading into the Phillies series.
