Reds sign RHP Ross Ohlendorf to one year deal

The Reds announced this afternoon that the team has acquired 33 year old right handed relief pitcher Ross Ohlendorf to a one year deal, presumably to slot into a bullpen that is still very much in flux.

Ohlendorf missed the entirety of 2014 with injuries, but returned with the Texas Rangers last season to throw 19.1 innings in 21 games, with a 3.71 ERA, 4.94 FIP, and a 1.448 WHIP. Previously, Ohlendorf spent 2013 with the Nationals where he spent 60.1 innings pitching a 3.28 ERA with a 1.160 WHIP.

The Royals signed Ohlendorf to a minor league deal earlier this offseason, but didn't prove himself worthy enough to join a bullpen with the horses that the Royals already have. He was released last Wednesday.

The Reds don't have the same issues as the Royals, obviously, where JJ Hoover is really the only name filled in with Sharpie in the 'pen. Ohlendorf, while anything but a sure thing at this point, is at least an experienced name. If he returns to his 2013 form, he'll probably as safe a bet as anyone else the Reds can fit in.

Then again, if he returns to his San Diego and latter Pittsburgh days ( 7.94 ERA), well, Ross Ohlendorf probably won't end the season as a member of the Cincinnati Reds.