Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Relief pitcher Jose Arredondo was one of several players cut by the Cincinnati Reds Sunday afternoon. Most cuts were understandable with the exception of Arredondo, who deserved a spot on the Reds’ Opening Day roster.
Arredondo posted a 2-1 record with a 2.84 earned run average and 10 strikeouts in 11 appearances this spring. These numbers replicate what he was able to accomplish in the bullpen last season.
Cincinnati decided to go with left-handed reliever Manny Parra instead of Arredondo. This is a decision that will most likely come back to haunt the Reds as Parra has struggled in recent years with the Milwaukee Brewers. Parra went 1-1 with a 5.28 ERA, 11 strikeouts and six walks in 10 outings in Spring Training.
The obvious reason why Cincinnati chose Parra over Arredondo is because he is a left-hander, which is something the team wants more of in the bullpen. However, this reason alone is not enough to choose Parra over a talented, proven relief pitcher. Arredondo did a remarkable job last season, and there is no question he would have been just as good in 2013.
Parra went 2-3 with a 5.06 ERA, 61 strikeouts and 35 walks in 62 appearances for the Brewers in 2012. There were times where he looked confident on the mound, while there were other times he rarely fooled anyone with his repertoire of pitches. He has been known to be a very inconsistent pitcher, which is something the Reds cannot afford if they want to clinch a second consecutive National League Central title.
Arredondo posted a 6-2 record with a 2.95 ERA, 62 strikeouts, one save and 12 holds in 66 appearances last year. He is a far more consistent pitcher who will not falter under pressure. He is the clear choice to aid the backend of the bullpen, but the Reds apparently think otherwise.
It will be interesting to see how long it takes for Cincinnati to realize their mistake and bring Arredondo back to the big leagues.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
