Projected Rotation

Johnny Cueto (RHP) – Cueto was superb last season, going 9-5 with a 2.31 ERA and 1.09 WHIP (both career-bests). The fact that he only notched nine wins is criminal, in five of his no-decisions last year he left the game with the lead, only to see the bullpen blow it. Cueto is entering the prime of his career and could be destined for great things going forward.

Mat Latos (RHP) – With Latos the Reds could really bolster their rotation. He went just 9-14 in 2011, but his 3.47 ERA and 1.18 WHIP indicate he pitched much better than his record. There are some concerns with him making the move from Petco to Great American (which is generally more hitter-friendly), but Latos still posted solid numbers on the road last year, so don’t expect his numbers to inflate too much.

Bronson Arroyo (RHP) – Arroyo had a down year last season, thanks to a mono infection that affected his performance. He started 32 games for the Reds, but he finished just 9-12 with a horrible 5.07 ERA for the year. Now that he seems to have regained his health, look for him to bounce back with numbers more similar to his 3.88 ERA and 17 wins of 2010.

Mike Leake (RHP) – Leake isn’t going to make headlines, but he was the Reds most consistent starter last year, leading the way with 12 wins and a 3.86 ERA. At just 24-years old he still has room to grow and can provide some excellent stability at the back of this rotation.

Homer Bailey (RHP) – Bailey has shown signs of brilliance in his career, but he needs to start producing on a more consistent basis if he wants to keep his job. He went 9-7 last year with a 4.43 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in a career-high 22 starts. If he doesn’t improve soon, he might just lose his position in the rotation, should the team decide to make Aroldis Chapman a starter this season.

Projected Closer

Ryan Madson (RHP) – Francisco Cordero saved 37 games for the Reds last year, but he is certainly on the decline and Cincinnati opted not to retain him. Cincinnati is excited about having Madson close the ninth, as he converted 32 of 34 save opportunities with the Philadelphia Phillies last year. Madson could save upwards of 40 games this year, especially with the new look of their starting staff, but an arm injury may cost him the 2012 season.

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2012 Cincinnati Reds Pitching Projections is a post from: WiredWriter