The Cincinnati Reds have bolstered their pitching staff with the addition of right-hander Keegan Thompson, signing him to a one-year Major League contract through the 2026 season. This move comes as a surprise to many, as Thompson's performance in the 2025 season with the Triple-A Iowa Cubs was underwhelming, to say the least.
Thompson, 30, struggled during his time with the Chicago Cubs, pitching to a 6-2 record with a 4.50 ERA across 35 appearances (two starts). His ERA of 4.50 is significantly higher than the league average, indicating that he may not be the reliable starter the Reds are seeking. However, the Reds see potential in Thompson, believing he can contribute to their team's success in the upcoming season.
Selected by the Cubs in the third round of the 2017 first-year player draft, Thompson has had a mixed bag of success in his Major League career. He made 104 appearances (23 starts) in parts of 4 Major League seasons with the team, with his Major League debut against the Reds on May 2, 2021, at Great American Ball Park. Despite his inconsistent performance, the Reds are willing to give him a chance to prove himself.
The question remains: Can Keegan Thompson turn his fortunes around and become a key contributor to the Cincinnati Reds' success? Only time will tell. The Reds' decision to sign him to a one-year contract suggests they are willing to take a chance on his potential, but it also highlights the team's need for reliable pitching. As the season unfolds, we will see if Thompson can live up to the expectations set by this bold move.
