The Reds won game one of the series last night against the Pirates. They enter today’s game with a 6-8 record. The Reds are fourth in the NL Central and are two games behind the Chicago Cubs. Similar to last year, the Reds have been dealing with multiple injuries to start the year. Matt McLain, Alexis Diaz, Austin Hays, and Tyler Stephenson are all currently on the injured list. Today, before game two of the series with the Pirates. The Reds are activating Andrew Abbott to make his season debut.
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Andrew Abbott – LHP
The Cincinnati Reds have activated Abbott off the injured list ahead of tonight’s game. Abbott will make the start tonight for the Reds against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Abbott last year was 10-10 with a 3.72 ERA and a 1.30 WHIP. He threw 138 innings in 25 starts. He struck out 114 batters and allowed a .240 batting average against. During his rehab stint with Triple-A Louisville Bats, he made two starts, pitching 10 innings. Abbott had a 3.60 ERA, a 1.50 WHIP, and a .270 batting average against.
Summary
The Reds welcome back Abbott to the rotation, with his first start of the year coming today. They have high hopes that closer Alexis Diaz can return early next week after making another appearance in Triple-A. Diaz has been out due to a hamstring issue. However, he will pitch again today for Louisville. This will be the second night in a row. Manager Terry Francona recently said he thinks Matt McLain will be activated soon. He expects this to happen as soon as McLain’s 10 days are up, following his hamstring injury.
