The Cincinnati Reds are undergoing notable roster changes as the offseason progresses, with bullpen mainstay Lucas Sims heading to a rising National League contender, while former Reds pitcher Connor Overton signs with the New York Mets. Meanwhile, young left-hander Andrew Abbott looks primed for an expanded role in Cincinnati’s rotation.
Lucas Sims Joins NL Upstart
Reliever Lucas Sims, a key bullpen arm for the Reds in recent seasons, has found a new home with an emerging NL team looking to make a serious postseason push. Sims, known for his electric fastball and ability to work high-leverage innings, played a crucial role in Cincinnati’s bullpen over the past few years. Despite battling injuries, he remained a trusted late-game option, posting a 3.10 ERA over 58 innings in 2023. His departure leaves a significant hole in the Reds’ relief corps, one they’ll need to address before Opening Day.
Connor Overton Heads to Queens
The Mets, continuing their search for pitching depth, have signed Connor Overton. The right-hander spent time with the Reds but struggled with injuries and consistency, limiting his impact. Overton made just three starts for Cincinnati in 2023 before being sidelined for the remainder of the season. If healthy, he could provide rotational depth for a Mets team looking to stabilize its pitching staff after a tumultuous 2024 campaign.
Andrew Abbott Set for Bigger Role
With Sims gone and the Reds still evaluating their rotation, Andrew Abbott could take on even greater responsibility in 2025. The 24-year-old left-hander impressed in his rookie season, finishing with a 3.87 ERA and 145 strikeouts in 134 innings. As Cincinnati focuses on its young core, Abbott is expected to be a key figure in the rotation alongside Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo.
What’s Next for the Reds?
Cincinnati remains in the thick of an evolving NL Central race, with their success in 2025 likely hinging on internal development and strategic acquisitions. Losing Sims weakens their bullpen, but the emergence of Abbott and other young arms could help offset these changes. As Spring Training approaches, the Reds’ front office will need to decide whether to bolster the bullpen externally or rely on their farm system to fill the void left by Sims.
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