Andrew Abbott Opening Day TAKEOVER Due Up | Cincinnati Reds Pitching Staff in Good Hands
Cincinnati Reds reward Andrew Abbott with Opening Day honors—is he the new ace? With Hunter Greene sidelined, Abbott steps up as the anchor of a starting rotation bursting with talent, including Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, Chase Burns, and Rhett Lowder. The show dives into fan debates over Opening Day criteria, Abbott’s consistent performance, and the strategic pitching depth that could carry the Reds deep into October.
Steve and Jeff break down how the Reds’ evolving roster, leadership from Terry Francona, and creative infield configurations impact both defensive excellence and lineup flexibility. Spencer Steer’s push to be Matt McLain’s backup at second base, Sal Stewart’s plate opportunities, and challenges managing young pitching arms shape the Reds’ outlook for 2026. Are Cincinnati’s deep rotation and versatile roster enough for a RED October? Don’t miss this action-packed Locked On Reds analysis.
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12 comments
G'mornin
Abbott has to be the man and step up. Hunter ain't going to make the cut Abbott is the guy now
Should have been resolved in the off season
I will be getting that mlb the show 26.
I'm not sold on Burns starting the season in the rotation given his lack of efficiency. I think Williamson should get that spot while Burns dials in the command in Louisville.
Just off the top of my head I know the ‘95 Braves rotation that won the World Series was insane. I’m not sure on their overall WAR but they did have prime Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and John Smoltz
I'm not worried about the starter on opening day, I'm worried about the closer if you get my drift
Steve I agree about Abbott. He’s reminds me of Glavine.
And I thought they awarded the Opening Day Starter based on the Alphabet. Abbott can't lose in that regard. TAKEOVER?? Oh my. It's not a takeover. It could have been Lodolo, but Abbott is a great choice. It doesn't really matter who's the Opening Day Starter. Who gets the "First Start on the Road"? Everybody is going to get their chance to pitch. Only a very few things are worth getting upset about, and whoever is the Opening Day Starter isn't one of those things.
The rotation isn't going to be 1) Abbott 2) Lodolo. The Reds aren't going to do L, L, R, R, R
I hope Jim Day talks to Andrew Abbott's dad on opening day….I like that guy
Hunter who???? Right here is your ace Castelooney!!! Pay him for God's sake!!!! Forget fragile Hunter!!!