The Cincinnati Reds are dealing with a problem, but it's not what you think. Rather, this specific problem is an issue most teams can only dream to have. Many teams in MLB are simply hoping to find a fourth and fifth capable starter to help the starting rotation. Meanwhile, this Reds ball club features six or seven especially reliable starters. 

Hunter Greene is set to lead the way, while Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo and Brady Singer will also be in the rotation. There are currently multiple pitchers battling for the No. 5 rotation spot, including Chase Burns, Brandon Williamson and Rhett Lowder. 

Burns could be the favorite -- although that is not official but just speculation. Lowder is an intriguing candidate, however. The 23-year-old only has six games of MLB experience, but he has displayed signs of potential. So far in spring training, the right-handed hurler has allowed only one earned run across five innings of work.

Reds manager Terry Francona is a believer in Lowder's potential. 

"He knows how to pitch. His future is extremely bright," Francona said of the 23-year-old, via Charlie Goldsmith.

Burns is probably the strongest candidate for the role at the moment. He turned in a 4.57 ERA across 13 outings in 2025, but he features a bright future despite the underwhelming performance.

Williams has dealt with injury concerns over the past couple of years. He probably won't win the No. 5 starting job as he continues to build back up, but anything is possible. 

With all of that being said, the Reds will have a big decision to make soon. It's a good problem to have to say the least.

As mentioned, Burns is in the driver's seat to earn the role. He most recently pitched in MLB in 2025 and has displayed promising signs in spring training up to this point. 

Still, it is only February. The regular season does not begin until late March. The Reds do not have to rush their decision. Lowder and Williamson could still make noise in the rotation conversation.

Regardless of who wins the job, there is one thing that is certain. The Reds feature the potential to have one of the best starting rotations in all of baseball in 2026. If Cincinnati is going to make another postseason run, the pitching will be a driving force behind the team's success.