Reds Pitcher Andrew Abbott Not Worried About Rough Start vs. Athletics

Abbott struggled on Sunday afternoon, giving up four runs in 2 2/3 innings, but remains focused on the process of Spring Training.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Cincinnati Reds left-handed pitcher Andrew Abbott had a rough outing against the Oakland Athletics on Sunday, giving up four runs on three hits over 2 2/3 innings. Despite the struggles, the 26-year-old said he felt good overall and was executing pitches in the zone early, noting that the execution of his off-speed pitches is still a work in progress. Abbott emphasized that Spring Training is more about the process than the results, and he remains focused on building arm strength and experimenting with his mechanics.

Why it matters

As one of the Reds' top pitching prospects, Abbott's development is crucial to the team's success in 2026 and beyond. While a rough spring outing is not ideal, the Reds and their fans understand that the priority during this time is for pitchers to focus on their process and preparation rather than worrying about results.

The details

Abbott threw 43 pitches on Sunday, 28 of which went for strikes. He mixed his pitches well, throwing 19 fastballs, eight curveballs, seven changeups, six sweepers, and three cutters. Despite the four runs allowed, Abbott only surrendered two hard-hit balls, indicating that he may have been the victim of some bad luck or weak contact finding holes.

  • On Sunday afternoon, March 1, 2026, Abbott faced the Athletics in a Cactus League game.

The players

Andrew Abbott

A 26-year-old left-handed pitcher in the Cincinnati Reds organization, who is considered one of the team's top pitching prospects.

Shea Langeliers

The Athletics' catcher, who Abbott said he "can't get out to save my life."

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What they’re saying

“I gave up some hard contact. Not ideal. Overall, I felt good. I was executing in the zone early. Doing a lot of the little things right. Staying healthy is the biggest thing.”

— Andrew Abbott, Reds Pitcher

“The execution isn't there yet, but it's still early. They got some good swings off. Tip your cap. I can't get Langeliers out to save my life... The thing is getting my off-speed pitches in the zone.”

— Andrew Abbott, Reds Pitcher

What’s next

Abbott will continue to work on his mechanics and off-speed pitch execution as he builds up arm strength during the remainder of Spring Training.

The takeaway

While Abbott's spring debut was not ideal, the Reds and their fans understand that the focus during this time is on the process rather than the results. As long as Abbott and the other Reds pitchers remain healthy and continue to make progress, there is every reason to be optimistic about the team's pitching staff heading into the 2026 season.