Spring training is often a time for pitchers to shake off rust, test adjustments and build toward the regular season, but early results can still draw attention. For the Cincinnati Reds, one of their most important arms is already working through some early challenges as he prepares for another significant season in the rotation.
Andrew Abbott’s second outing of the spring did not go as planned, as the left‑hander allowed four runs over 2 2/3 innings. While the numbers themselves are not overly concerning this early in camp, the outing highlighted areas he is still refining as he ramps up for the season. For a pitcher coming off a breakout year, even small inconsistencies can stand out.
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Abbott is entering his fourth year with Cincinnati and is coming off the best season of his career. In 2025, he posted a 2.87 ERA with a 10‑7 record, adding 149 strikeouts across 166 1/3 innings. He also recorded a 1.148 WHIP, threw a shutout and earned his first All‑Star selection while finishing eighth in National League Cy Young voting. That performance helped the Reds reach the postseason and solidified Abbott as a key piece of their pitching staff after being selected in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft.
Following his latest spring outing, Abbott addressed both the struggles and the positives he took away from the appearance (h/t Charlie Goldsmith of FOX19).
“I gave up some hard contact. Not ideal. Overall, I felt good. I was executing in the zone early. Doing a lot of the little things right. Staying healthy is the biggest thing. The execution isn’t there yet, but it’s still early. They got some good swings off. Tip your cap. I can’t get Langeliers out to save my life… The thing is getting my off‑speed pitches in the zone.”
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The comments reflect a balanced perspective, acknowledging the results while emphasizing process and health. Abbott’s focus on execution, particularly with his off‑speed pitches, is notable. When he was at his best last season, his ability to mix speeds and locate secondary offerings played a major role in keeping hitters off balance.
For Cincinnati, Abbott’s development remains critical to their success. The Reds are aiming to build on last year’s playoff appearance, and their rotation will need to be a strength. Abbott has already proven he can perform at a high level over a full season, but maintaining that consistency will be the next step.
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At this stage of spring, the results are secondary to progress. If Abbott can sharpen his command and regain the feel for his off‑speed pitches, there is little reason to believe he will not once again be one of the most reliable arms in Cincinnati’s rotation when the games begin to count.