CONFIRMED DEAL: The Cincinnati Reds and Houston Astros have formally agreed to terms on a two-year contract with a top veteran catcher, however.

Cincinnati Reds’ left-hander Nick Lodolo’s status for Opening Day is up in the air as he continues to battle discomfort related to a stress reaction in his tibia from 2023.

Per Mark Sheldon of MLB.com:

Nick Lodolo is throwing a side bullpen session today. Tomorrow, he is seeing a specialist for his left tibula to get tests. Outcome will likely determine whether he can be ready on time for the start of the Reds’ season, or soon thereafter.

It’s certainly an interesting situation as Lodolo both continues to pitch and experience discomfort.

The former top prospect made only seven appearances in 2023 before the leg injury ended his season. One of the best young arms in the sport, the 26-year-old is a lifetime 6-8 over parts of two seasons. He is supposed to pair with

Hunter Greene to make up a young nucleus of the organization’s starting rotation, but both players haven’t been able to stay healthy yet in their careers.

If Lodolo can be ready for Opening Day, he figures to join a rotation with Greene, Frankie Montas, and Graham Ashcraft. If he can’t get healthy in time, the team has Nick Martinez, Brandon Williamson and other assorted arms to turn to.

Cincinnati went 82-80 a season ago and finished in third place in the National League Central. Because of the relative mediocrity of the division – and the great collection of young talent they have – the Reds will be a trendy pick to get to the playoffs in 2024.