Cincinnati Reds' Andrew Abbott Makes Statement Without Saying a Word vs. Red Sox
Andrew Abbott is ready to lead the Reds.
The Cincinnati Reds were dealt an unfortunate blow during spring training when it was revealed that ace Hunter Greene would be out until July due to an injury. Andrew Abbott was later announced as the Opening Day starting pitcher as a result. The 26-year-old has performed well in recent years, but how would he pitch in the ace role?
Well, he answered that question on Thursday. The Reds were defeated 3-0 by the Boston Red Sox on Opening Day. Abbott, however, found himself in a pitcher's duel with Garrett Crochet.
Both pitchers turned in six shutout innings. Abbott struck out four hitters as well. The Reds' ultimately lost the game as the offense failed to find success and the bullpen allowed a few runs, but Abbott looked tremendous.
Andrew Abbott's Opening Day Start Abbott threw his fastball most of the time at 54 percent. He located it well and it worked as a setup pitch. His curveball and changeup -- which he threw 24 percent and 13 percent of the time in that order -- generated 25 percent and 50 percent whiff rates.