A pitcher from the Cincinnati Reds received an update on his salary for 2026.
As the Cincinnati Reds continue preparing for spring training, one of their key pitchers has already received clarity on his financial outlook for the upcoming season. Right‑hander Graham Ashcraft, who has transitioned into a versatile role on the pitching staff, entered the offseason arbitration process seeking a raise following his 2025 performance.
Ashcraft has become a dependable option for Cincinnati in recent seasons, providing flexibility as both a starter earlier in his career and more recently as a bullpen arm capable of handling multiple innings. His ability to generate ground balls and limit damage has made him a valuable piece of the Reds’ pitching depth as the organization looks to build on recent progress.
“Graham Ashcraft won his arbitration case vs. Reds. Will make $1.75m this year (Reds argued for $1.25m). Tyler Stephenson hearing Monday,” reported Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer.
The decision gives Ashcraft a notable salary increase heading into the 2026 campaign and eliminates any lingering uncertainty before camp begins. Avoiding a prolonged dispute allows both the player and team to shift their full attention toward preparation for the season.
During the 2025 season, Ashcraft appeared in 62 games and posted an 8–5 record with a 3.99 ERA across 65 1/3 innings pitched. He struck out 64 batters while finishing with a 1.42 WHIP, numbers that reflected his growing comfort working out of the bullpen and handling high‑leverage situations when called upon.
Those results represented a solid step forward in his evolution from a traditional starting role into a multi‑inning reliever. Cincinnati frequently relied on him to stabilize games in the middle innings, and his workload ranked among the heavier totals on the staff for relief appearances.
Ashcraft’s presence remains especially important for a Reds pitching group that continues to blend young starters with experienced bullpen arms. His experience in multiple roles gives manager Terry Francona flexibility when constructing the pitching plan during long stretches of the season.
Originally drafted by Cincinnati in the sixth round of the 2019 MLB Draft, Ashcraft has steadily worked his way into a consistent contributor since his debut in 2022. His development reflects the organization’s emphasis on internal pitching growth as the Reds attempt to remain competitive in the National League Central.
With his arbitration case settled, Ashcraft will report to spring training without contract distractions. The Reds now have cost certainty for another key arm, while Ashcraft receives the financial recognition that matches his expanding role heading into 2026.