Cincinnati Reds to ascertain Jonathan Broxton’s role
The offseason brings with itself a kind of slowness, yet – quite paradoxically, accompanying enthusiasm as well. For the fans of the teams that could not quite achieve what they had planned, this is the time to lay their hands on the players who have the
potential to completely change the outlook of the clubs the next season.
For the fans whose teams accomplished the goals they had set, this is the time to get more of the solid players who can help continue the trail of success. The Cincinnati Reds belong to the latter.
Consider.
They had one of the best bullpen records to demonstrate. While the like of Johnny Cueto remained the rotation cornerstone, it was a perfect combination of Jonathan Broxton and Aroldis Chapman that provided strength to the bullpen.
The Reds led the National League Central, eventually winning it by having 97-65 record, far different from their record of 79-83 in 2011.
In the offseason, the Reds first and foremost priority seemed securing Jonathan Broxton. They did that with the three-year contract signed with the reliever.
It was on July 31, 2012, that the Reds traded two of their minor league pitchers, JC Sulbaran and Donie Jospeh to get Broxton from the Kansas City Royals. In the 23 saves opportunities, he had 20 saves.
With his arrival in the Cincinnati Reds, he performed well, keeping the Reds’ bullpen intact. As a setup man, his role was crucial in bullpen to keep the Reds atop the NL Central.
That was quite an experience for him. And as the debate rages on whether the Reds should be using Aroldis Chapman as the starter or closer, Broxton once again commands attention since he can also be used as a closer if need be.
He seems all ready to embrace the daunting challenge.
“I went into the offseason with an open mind ... I've got experience in both roles. Even if Chapman doesn't work out as a starter, he can come back in and fill in as the closer. I'll be happy to throw the eighth (inning). It doesn't matter. You saw what
he did last year.”
In the total of 60 games that he appeared, Jonathan Broxton posted 2.48 ERA in the 58 innings that he pitched, having had 27 saves. To be seen now is what the Reds are considering as a likely move for the upcoming season.
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