With the Reds placing pitcher Graham Ashcraft on the injured list on Wednesday afternoon, Terry Francona spoke to reporters and said Nick Martinez will return to the bullpen for now.
Martinez will give Cincinnati additional flexibility out of the bullpen with the ability to throw multiple innings at a time.
Pitcher Tony Santillan is second in all of baseball in appearances with 65 games pitched this season.
The Reds will look to avoid being swept for the first time this season in Wednesday's finale against the Dodgers. Nick Lodolo was activated and will make his first start since coming off the injured list.
Francona is hopeful that Ashcraft will be able to return after the minimum time required.
You can see Brian Giesenschlag's full posts below:
As for Ashcraft’s spot in the bullpen, Nick Martinez will return to the bullpen for now.
— Brian Giesenschlag (@BGiesenschlag) August 27, 2025
Martinez threw 104 pitches Tuesday so his availability will be determined after the off day on Thursday.
Update on Graham Ashcraft from Terry Francona.
— Brian Giesenschlag (@BGiesenschlag) August 27, 2025
Reds don’t believe the distal forearm soreness is a long term issue.
“Hope it (time on IL) is the minimum required.”
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