Two possibly key players in Reds' 2027 plans near return from injury
Tony Santillan, a dominant high-leverage reliever in 2025 who has struggled this season, returns from an oblique injury Friday for the Reds.
The Cincinnati Reds anticipate that right-handed pitcher Tony Santillan will be at full strength during the final weeks of the season, providing valuable insight into his potential role in their 2027 plans. Santillan, a dominant high-leverage pitcher in the 2025 playoff bullpen, has faced struggles this season but has recently returned from an eight-week oblique injury.
He made his return this week, delivering three scoreless innings for Triple-A Louisville and striking out five without issuing any walks. Santillan's ERA this season stands at 5.23, up from his 2.44 ERA in 80 games during the 2025 playoff season. The Reds, who aim to retool for a comeback and contend next season, are paying Santillan $1.8 million for the 2026 season.
Another crucial late-inning contributor to the Reds' successful bullpen in 2025, Graham Ashcraft, is set to return from a minor-league rehab assignment with Louisville soon. After missing most of the season due to an elbow injury, Ashcraft will throw one more live-batting-practice/simulation before beginning rehab work. This could see him back on the roster during the Reds' next home stand from August 31 to September 6, provided there are no setbacks.
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