Reds name Andrew Abbott opening day starting pitcher

CINCINNATI, Ohio (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The Cincinnati Reds announced Sunday that left-hander Andrew Abbott will start on the mound for Opening Day against the Boston Red Sox.

In 2025, Abbott posted his best season as a starter. He recorded a 2.87 ERA, struck out 149 batters and finished with a 1.15 WHIP. He also posted a 3.5 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

Abbott was drafted by the Reds in the 2021 MLB Draft out of the University of Virginia with the 53rd overall pick.

The southpaw made his MLB debut on June 5, 2023, against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Abbott was named an MLB All-Star in 2025 and finished the season in the top 10 in ERA among pitchers who met the minimum innings requirement.

It will be a matchup of two left-handers on Opening Day at Great American Ball Park, as Abbott is slated to face Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet (2.56 ERA, 255 strikeouts in 2025).

First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 p.m. Thursday, March 26.