SP Luis Castillo (second-year arbitration eligible)
Following a disastrous first two months, Castillo turned it around and finished with a 3.98 ERA while making all of his starts. He should be back as the rotation ace while the Reds hope he gets off to a better beginning in 2022.
SP Sonny Gray (signed through 2022)
Due to earn $10.17 million in the final year of his contract, there is a $12 million option for 2023. Gray dealt with injuries and what he termed an “average” 2021 performance. If healthy, the right-hander can be firmly up there with Castillo at the top of the rotation next season.
SP Tyler Mahle (second-year arbitration eligible)
Mahle established career highs with 13 wins, 33 starts, 180 innings and 210 strikeouts in 2021. Although his home splits were poor compared to on the road, he should return as a middle-of-the-rotation fixture as he continues to progress as a pitcher.
SP Wade Miley (signed through 2021)
Miley has a $10 million club option for 2022 ($1 million buyout). If the Reds pick it up, they will get their most consistent pitcher back from 2021. His veteran presence and ability to pitch late into games would be a boost.
SP Vladimir Gutierrez (under club control through 2027)
After he missed all of 2020 serving a PED suspension, Gutierrez emerged as a big league rookie in 2021. Eleven of his first 16 games were quality starts until he ran out of gas down the stretch. He should be part of the back of the rotation again next season.
SP Reiver Sanmartin (under club control through 2027)
Made two starts in September vs. the Pirates and posted a 1.54 ERA. The lefty impressed the organization all season and he could be competing for a rotation spot next spring.