The Cincinnati Reds will need an impactful effort from their pitching rotation in order to compete in 2026. Veteran right-handed pitcher Brady Singer is expected to play a pivotal role in the rotation, but he is currently battling a blister. According to Charlie Clifford, the veteran is pitching in an exhibition game on Monday night against the Milwaukee Brewers. Clifford also shared a quote from Singer about his blister concern.

"No matter how I feel, I'm still gonna go out there," Singer said. "I don't care how I feel. They pay me to go pitch, so I'm gonna go pitch no matter how I feel or what's going on. Just go do it."

Singer is planning to pitch regardless of how he feels. The Reds, however, are going to monitor the situation. If he is displaying signs of discomfort, Cincinnati could remove him from the game earlier than expected. 

The fact that Singer is pitching on Monday is an encouraging sign with Opening Day right around the corner. Barring any setbacks, it seems as if Singer could be ready to go to begin the new campaign. 

The Reds know that competing without Hunter Greene -- who is expected to be out until July due to an injury -- will be a challenge. Greene is not only the ace of the Reds, but he is one of the best pitchers in all of MLB. 

Cincinnati features enough depth to potentially stay afloat despite his injury absence. Singer, Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, Chase Burns, Rhett Lowder and Brandon Williamson are among the starters who will help to fill the void. 

Offensive uncertainty remains a concern, though. Elly De La Cruz and Eugenio Suarez are capable of leading the way, while Sal Stewart is the top prospect on the team. Overall, however, offensive depth is not a strength for the Reds. 

The pitching is going to need to lead the way.  As mentioned, Singer's performance will be crucial in order for that to happen.

The 29-year-old appeared in 32 total contests in 2025. He pitched to a 4.03 ERA across 169.2 innings of work. Singer added 163 strikeouts. 

While Singer did not have his best season, he still positively impacted the Reds. He consistently pitched every fifth day and often gave his team a chance to win even when he did not have his best stuff. HIs veteran prowess on the mound also helped the Reds overall.

The Reds and Brewers will play at 7:40 PM EST on Monday night in their exhibition contest. Meanwhile, the Reds will play their first game of the regular season at 4:10 PM EST on Thursday.