Reds Prospect Chase Petty Adds New Pitch Ahead of 2026 Season

INTRO:
The Cincinnati Reds announced today that top pitching prospect Chase Petty has integrated a new pitch into his repertoire as he prepares for the 2026 MLB season. The development is especially significant for the Reds, as Petty has been regarded as one of the team’s most promising young arms. With the Reds looking to bolster their pitching staff, Petty’s progress holds critical implications for the team’s competitive future.

SECTION 1: Official Announcement
The Cincinnati Reds confirmed this morning that Chase Petty, their 2021 first-round draft pick, has successfully added a split-finger fastball to his pitching arsenal. Reds’ pitching coach, Derek Johnson, praised Petty’s work ethic, stating that the pitch could greatly enhance his performance on the mound. The announcement comes as part of the Reds’ ongoing efforts to develop young talent in preparation for the upcoming seasons, particularly following a challenging 2023 campaign.

SECTION 2: Immediate Impact
The integration of a new pitch could lead to significant changes in Petty’s usage in the minor leagues and eventual MLB call-up. It is expected that the Reds will monitor his performance closely during the upcoming season to gauge the effectiveness of the split-finger fastball. This pitch could alter how the Reds construct their pitching rotation and bullpen strategy, especially if Petty demonstrates the capability to get outs in high-pressure situations. Discussions about his timeline for being called up to the big league now also include considerations for this newly acquired skill.

SECTION 3: Context
Recent changes within the Reds organization have made the development of young players a top priority. This commitment has become increasingly crucial after the team’s lackluster performance in 2023, where they finished at the bottom of the NL Central. The Reds have been focused on rebuilding their roster, and Petty’s advancement adds hope for a stronger pitching lineup in the seasons ahead. Earlier this month, the Reds also announced the acquisition of veteran pitchers to mentor younger players, indicating a dual approach to the team’s development strategy.

SECTION 4: Why This Matters
Chase Petty’s ability to successfully incorporate a split-finger fastball not only heightens his profile as a prospect but also significantly impacts the Reds’ short- and long-term plans. The pitch is known for its effectiveness in keeping hitters off-balance and could become a game-changer in Petty’s ability to secure strikeouts and limit runs. As the MLB landscape becomes more competitive, especially within the NL Central division, having a robust rotation featuring a talented young arm like Petty could provide the Reds a much-needed advantage.

SECTION 5: What Comes Next
Moving forward, the Reds will likely assign Petty to their AAA affiliate for the 2024 season, where he can continue to refine his new pitch in a competitive environment. He will participate in spring training next year, where the coaching staff will evaluate his progress closely. If he demonstrates consistency and effectiveness with the split-finger fastball during the upcoming season, there is a strong possibility that he could make his MLB debut as early as late 2025.

As fans await further updates on Chase Petty’s development, one question lingers: How do you think adding a new pitch will impact Petty’s trajectory to the major leagues?