It seems apparent that this team is going to go as far as it’s starting pitching is going to carry it. We all have a pretty good handle on what the Major league rotation is going to look like:
Wilson
Milton
Ortiz
Harang
Hudson
The losers for the last two spots, Claussen and Hancock in this prognostication, will occupy the pen rather than AAA since they are out of options and the Red’s won’t risk losing them on waivers in my estimation.
Thought I’d take a quick look at the Red’s SP depth at the top two levels of the minors.
Unfortunately for the fellows in the AAA rotation it appears that the Reds will have their spot starters on hand in the pen. So barring trades, callups for these guys will be hard to come by. Here’s my best guess at the Louisville starting rotation:
Belisle
Roberston
Kelly
Bong
Fernandez
Rose is out with his knee injury, but I would much rather see Hall or Prokopec in that 5th spot if they are healthy. Kelly and Bong are the only two prospect types here, and Bong could see some lefty bullpen time in the bigs if the situation arises.
The prospects and suspects are in mass at Chattanooga this season. This will be the team to keep an eye on this season as far as pitching prospects for the near future. My best guess at their rotation:
Gardner
Pauly
Ramirez
Kozlowski
Smith
Other interesting possibilities here are Howington, Basham, Aramboles, and Bruksch. The first three making appearances at this level will rest entirely upon them recovering from injuries.
Also, keep a eye out at Dayton, where we will be likely to see both Bailey and Gruler coming back from knee and arm problems respectfully.
Later,
Tom