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From MLB Network’s Jon Morosi:
News: @Reds RHP Michael Lorenzen (@Lorenzen55) told us on @MLBNetworkRadio today that he will report to spring training as a starting pitcher and intends to finish the 2021 season in that role. "I have a lot to prove, and I'm excited to be able to do that." @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 11, 2020
Since 40% of the Reds’ 2020 rotation has elected free agency, there could be a spot for Lorenzen to make this transition if he’s able to. After an excellent 2019 season where he made 73 appearances out of the bullpen, Lorenzen struggled in that role in 2020, seeing his ERA jump a run and a half to 4.88 in his relief appearances. He started two games down the stretch as the Reds had injury issues late in the season, and performed well in those games, leading the Reds to wins in both of his starts.
It’s worth mentioning that Lorenzen is someone who’s spoken extensively about Kyle Boddy and the Driveline team, and I’m sure he feels confident with them supporting his move. It should also allow him to swing the bat more, as there’s no indication that the NL will have the DH next season, so he’ll be able to bat during his starts and pinch hit on games where he’s not pitching. The main question remaining to me is whether he’ll be able to handle the extended workload, and if he is able to go deeper into ballgames, if he’s going to be a better choice than the other candidates for that spot, such as Wade Miley, Tyler Mahle, Tejay Antone, or an up-and-comer like Tony Santillan.