Another Rough Start Could Spark Trade Deadline Regret for Reds Prospect Chase Petty
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Petty remains ranked among MLB Pipeline’s top 100 prospects, but his performance this year has raised serious doubts. After a rocky MLB debut against the St. Louis Cardinals on April 30, Petty made two more big-league starts before spending most of the season in Triple-A.
His latest outing for the Louisville Bats may have been his worst yet. The 21-year-old lasted just 2⅔ innings, allowing nine runs on nine hits — including three home runs — while striking out only one of the 17 batters he faced. In 18 minor-league starts this season, Petty holds a 5.51 ERA.
Many Reds fans thought Petty could be traded at the deadline to acquire a much-needed bat. The team moved several other top-30 prospects, but kept Petty, possibly missing the chance to sell high. Before his MLB call-up, Petty posted a 3.52 ERA with 27 strikeouts in 23 innings. Since then, he’s gone 3-7 with a 6.32 ERA, striking out 46 in 57 innings while issuing 30 walks.
The Reds’ decision not to trade Petty could prove costly, especially with the team failing to land a major offensive upgrade. His development is now crucial heading into next season, as the club could lose Zack Littell and Nick Martinez to free agency. Fans hope Petty’s long-term value will exceed what he might have brought in a trade this year.
