Reds name Andrew Abbott their Opening Day starting pitcher

The 24-year-old lefty will make his first career Opening Day start on March 26 against the Red Sox.

Mar. 8, 2026 at 5:22pm

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The Cincinnati Reds have named 24-year-old left-handed pitcher Andrew Abbott as their starting pitcher for Opening Day 2026 against the Boston Red Sox. This will be Abbott's first career Opening Day start after being informed of the decision by manager Terry Francona.

Why it matters

Abbott is one of the Reds' top pitching prospects and this opportunity represents a significant milestone in his young career. The Reds are hoping Abbott can anchor their starting rotation and lead the team to a successful 2026 season.

The details

The Reds made the announcement on March 8, 2026, that Abbott will take the mound for the team's season opener at Great American Ball Park on March 26. Abbott has impressed the Reds' coaching staff during spring training and earned the nod over the team's other starting pitchers.

  • The Reds announced Abbott as their Opening Day starter on March 8, 2026.
  • Abbott's first career Opening Day start will be on March 26, 2026 against the Boston Red Sox.

The players

Andrew Abbott

A 24-year-old left-handed pitcher who is one of the top pitching prospects in the Cincinnati Reds organization.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds who informed Abbott that he would be the team's Opening Day starter.

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What they’re saying

“Add lefty Andrew Abbott's name to the Cincinnati history books because he will take the ball for the Cincinnati Reds as their 2026 Opening Day starter.”

— Pat Brennan, Author

What’s next

Abbott will look to build on this opportunity and have a strong start on Opening Day to set the tone for the Reds' 2026 season.

The takeaway

At just 24 years old, Andrew Abbott has earned the prestigious honor of being named the Cincinnati Reds' Opening Day starting pitcher, a testament to his talent and the faith the organization has placed in him as a key part of their future.