In a move that’s, frankly, surprising to us, our beloved Cincinnati Reds have officially designated right-hander Daniel Duarte for assignment, creating room on the 40-man roster for the recently acquired Brent Suter, whose one-year deal with Cincinnati has been confirmed.
Despite grappling with elbow issues for much of the 2022 season, Duarte made his big league debut, pitching 2 2/3 innings over three appearances with the Reds. This past season, experiencing improved health, Duarte divided his time between the majors (31 2/3 innings) and Triple-A Louisville (35 innings) before landing on the Major League injured list in late September due to shoulder tightness.
The reason we’re pretty surprised, is that Duarte’s overall performance in 2023 was noteworthy, boasting a 3.34 ERA in the minors and a 3.69 ERA during his Cincinnati stint. Again, we’re talking about a pitcher who’s in his late 20s and had a sub-4.00 ERA in just the last season.
However, control did emerged as a concern for the right-hander, evidenced by an 11.3% walk rate at Louisville and an elevated 14.7% walk rate in the big leagues. Despite a respectable 25.8% strikeout rate in the minors, Duarte’s Major League strikeout rate was lower at 16.9%, and he registered nearly as many walks (20) as strikeouts (23). But again, this guy held it down for our club last year, and he’s young, and he’s controllable. I’d be shocked if another team doesn’t pounce in short order and claim Dynamic Danny.
Having spent three years with the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate, Duarte maintained a 4.05 ERA, a 26.76% strikeout rate, and an 11.61% walk rate. While these figures are respectable, they didn’t sufficiently distinguish Duarte to warrant a spot on the Reds’ 40-man roster. Consequently, he now becomes a potential target for other teams seeking bullpen depth if claimed off waivers. In the event of clearing waivers, Cincinnati may retain Duarte as a relief option, allowing for frequent shuttle between the majors and minors based on team needs.
If this is the end for your career as a Cincinnati Red, Daniel, we salute you. And best of luck on wherever you go next (unless if you’re playing the Reds, in which case we, respectfully, would like to tee-off on your pitches)
