3 years agoCincinnati Reds manager David Bell said that closer Lucas Sims is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day. He's not injured, but he has less time to prepare for the season due to a shortened spring training. Sims had "hiccups" in his buildup to camp but is healthy now and is throwing bullpens. The 27-year-old right-hander was projected to enter the 2022 season as the Reds closer, but it looks like that won't be happening now. He had the first seven saves of his career last year while sporting a 4.40 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 76 strikeouts (career-high 14.6 K/9) in 47 relief innings. For however long Sims is out, the Reds could go with somewhat of a committee approach to the ninth inning with arms like Luis Cessa, Art Warren and Justin Wilson.--Keith Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer - Bobby Nightengale