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Reds' Spring Training Pitching Looks Promising

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 6:33 GMT by The Cincinnati Enquirer
      Locales: Ohio, Florida, UNITED STATES

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- While a 7-3 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday might not grab headlines in the regular season, the Cincinnati Reds' spring training performance is painting a promising picture - and the canvas is dominated by pitching. The game, played under the Arizona sun, showcased a depth of arms that could be pivotal to the team's success in the upcoming 2026 season.

It wasn't simply that the Reds pitching performed well, but how. Manager David Bell emphasized the strong showings, highlighting a staff that isn't just relying on raw velocity but demonstrating command, pitch variety, and a clear understanding of approach. This is a welcome sign for a team hoping to build on recent improvements and contend in a competitive National League.

Saturday's game featured a strong starting performance from Luis Clarke, who tossed three scoreless innings, allowing just one hit while racking up four strikeouts. Clarke's fastball, consistently hitting 95 mph, was particularly impressive. However, it wasn't just the speed; Bell noted Clarke's "good feel" for pitching, indicating a nuanced ability to mix his arsenal - utilizing both a slider and a changeup at a high frequency. This ability to keep hitters off-balance is crucial for sustained success at the major league level.

Following Clarke, Jared Shuster continued the strong pitching display, navigating two innings while conceding only one hit and recording a strikeout. While Shuster's pitch count was carefully monitored - a common practice during spring training to build stamina - his performance underscored his ability to consistently hit his spots with a diverse range of pitches. This control and precision are hallmarks of a reliable major league pitcher.

Reily McKinney allowed a single run in his inning of work, a minor blip in an otherwise encouraging day for the Reds' pitching staff. While the offense struggled to capitalize, scoring only three runs on five hits, the pitching held the Guardians largely in check.

The most exciting development of the afternoon, however, was the appearance of top prospect Chase Burns. Pitching in the eighth inning, Burns delivered a strong performance that solidified the hype surrounding his potential. While details of his specific outing weren't fully detailed in initial reports, the fact that he was given the opportunity in a relatively high-leverage situation suggests the coaching staff is keen to evaluate him under game conditions. Burns represents a significant long-term investment for the Reds, and his development is critical to the team's future.

Beyond Saturday: Reds Pitching Outlook for 2026

The emergence of strong pitching in spring training isn't an isolated incident; it's a continuation of a trend. The Reds have made significant investments in pitching talent, both through the draft and free agency, in recent years. While the offense has often received more attention, a solid pitching foundation is arguably more important for long-term success.

The Reds' starting rotation is beginning to take shape. While veteran pitchers will likely anchor the top of the rotation, the development of young arms like Clarke, Shuster and the tantalizing prospect of Burns provides significant depth and potential upside. The bullpen is also undergoing a transformation, with a focus on high-leverage relievers capable of shutting down opponents in the late innings.

This focus on pitching depth is a strategic shift for the organization. In the past, the Reds have sometimes relied too heavily on a few key starters. However, with injuries being an inevitable part of the game, having a reliable pipeline of pitching talent is essential for maintaining competitiveness throughout the season.

The spring training games are, of course, just a small sample size. However, the early returns from the Reds pitching staff are undeniably encouraging. If these pitchers can continue to perform at a high level when the regular season begins, the Reds could surprise many and become a legitimate contender in the National League. The loss to the Guardians on Saturday feels far less significant when viewed through the lens of this burgeoning pitching prowess. Fans should keep a close eye on the development of these arms as spring training progresses; they may just be the key to unlocking the Reds' potential in 2026.