When Derek Carty wrote a National League betting preview story for ESPN along with Todd Zola on Friday, he likely did not envision the immense backlash that would follow from Cincinnati Reds fans. However, that is exactly what occurred. So, what led to the backlash?
Many fanbases are destined to feel a bit frustrated after a win-loss prediction type of article. Writers make their predictions and if they go with the under, fans often become frustrated. Carty’s decision to go with the under on the 82.5 mark was not the reason fans were in his mentions on X (formerly Twitter), however. Rather, it was because of a few sentences Carty wrote about the Reds’ rotation.
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He mentioned that the starting rotation has “question marks” that caught his attention. So, what are those questions?
“Andrew Abbott has been one of the luckiest pitchers in baseball, Nick Lodolo’s stuff declined after returning from injury last year and Chase Burns represents a significant injury risk,” Carty wrote. “Throw in a weak bullpen, and this pitching staff nearly cracks the bottom five of projected staffs in baseball.”
The Reds feature one of baseball’s most underrated rotations in all reality. Lucky or not, Abbott has been one of the more consistent starters in the game over the past few years. Lodolo and Burns both feature potential. Meanwhile, Hunter Greene is one of the best pitchers in MLB and Brady Singer is an established veteran.
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Reds fans quickly took notice of the story and couldn’t believe the ESPN article mentioned the team potentially ending up near the “bottom five” pitching staffs in the game in 2026.
Carty shared two posts on X following the immense backlash from fans. At first, he seemingly defended the take.
However, to his credit, Carty then accepted that maybe it wasn’t a perfect prediction.
Carty’s apology drew even more backlash, however. In fact, even former Reds player Zack Cozart got involved.
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Another writer appreciated the apology, but still couldn’t get behind Carty’s take.
One thing that is undeniable is that Reds fans believe in their pitching rotation. Their appreciation of the pitching staff is understandable, as it features the ceiling of a top five rotation in the game.
Sure, the bullpen has some questions. However, Emilio Pagan’s return as the closer will provide stability late in games once again.
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The team’s biggest question mark is its offense. Adding Eugenio Suarez provides the Reds with much needed pop in the lineup. Elly De La Cruz is a star. Sal Stewart may win the 2026 NL Rookie of the Year. Overall, though, the offense has uncertainty.
In the end, everyone is entitled to their opinion. Carty is allowed to make his predictions. Reds fans are allowed to disagree.
However, it would be surprising if the Reds finished anywhere near the bottom five among starting rotations in MLB.