Sam Moll's journey with the Cincinnati Reds is on a precarious path this spring. Despite surviving the offseason roster shuffle, Moll finds himself in a tight spot.
With the Reds bringing in veteran left-handed relievers Caleb Ferguson and Brock Burke, and the likely addition of Nathaniel Lowe soon, Moll's place is anything but secure. To make the Opening Day roster, Moll will need to deliver an exceptional performance in spring training.
Moll's troubles began back in 2024. After a stellar run of 24⅔ innings with a 0.73 ERA following his 2023 trade from the Athletics, a left shoulder impingement derailed his momentum. The injury limited him to 37⅔ innings in 2024, where he posted a 3.35 ERA before another stint on the injured list in September.
The injury bug bit Moll again last season. A 15-day IL stint in mid-April was followed by a demotion to Triple-A upon his return.
Though he was recalled in July, his stay was short-lived. Across 23 appearances in 2025, Moll's strikeout rate climbed to 10.80 K/9, but his walk rate also rose to 4.91 BB/9, highlighting inconsistency.
As spring training unfolds, Moll is under immense pressure to secure a spot in the Reds' bullpen. Seven of the eight spots are essentially locked in, with Ferguson, Burke, Emilio Pagán, Tony Santillan, Graham Ashcraft, and Pierce Johnson expected to be on the Opening Day roster, health permitting. Connor Phillips is also in the mix, leaving Moll to battle for the final slot.
Adding to the stakes is Nathaniel Lowe's presence in camp. The former Gold Glove Award-winning first baseman is anticipated to make the roster, necessitating a 40-man spot. Moll, lacking minor-league options, could find himself on the waiver wire if he doesn't make the cut.
In the coming weeks, Moll's performance in Cactus League play will be crucial. To remain with the Reds, he'll need to showcase the talent that once made him a standout, fending off competition from emerging talents like Luis Mey and Zach Maxwell. The clock is ticking, and Moll's future with the Reds hangs in the balance.