Justin Bruihl, a left-handed pitcher, played a significant role in the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen for multiple seasons before being traded to the Colorado Rockies last season. Throughout his time with the Dodgers, the 26-year-old showcased his capabilities as a reliable and steady option from the left side.

Bruihl began the year on a strong note, impressively maintaining a 2.53 ERA, 2.51 FIP, 0.94 WHIP, and a.220 batting average allowed until May 16. While he did have a few outings in the following weeks where he allowed multiple runs, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commended Bruihl for his solid performance, especially considering the frequent back-and-forth trips between Triple-A Oklahoma City and the major league roster.

Roberts expressed his admiration for Bruihl’s ability to handle the challenges of being shuttled between the two levels without letting it affect his performance. The manager praised Bruihl’s improved ball movement, confidence, and overall attitude, emphasizing how fortunate the Dodgers were to have him on the team.

However, due to a roster crunch, the Dodgers decided to capitalize on Bruihl’s impressive stretch leading up to the All-Star break and traded him to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for cash considerations. Before the trade, Bruihl showcased his skills in 15 games with Oklahoma City, amassing a 5-2 record, a 2.04 ERA, and one save.

Upon joining the Rockies, Bruihl faced challenges adjusting to the unique circumstances of pitching at Coors Field, where the high elevation can impact the movement and effectiveness of pitches. Despite his efforts, the combination of his lower velocity approach and the challenging environment did not yield the desired results.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Bruihl signed a Minor League contract with the Cincinnati Reds, which includes a non-roster invitation to spring training. The Reds currently have left-handed relief options in Alex Young and Sam Moll at the Major League level. However, with his previous experience and solid track record, Bruihl could compete for a spot on the roster, particularly if injuries occur.

One area of concern for Bruihl is his performance against right-handed hitters, which could pose challenges if the Reds prioritize bullpen arms that excel in opposite-handed matchups. Nevertheless, Bruihl’s potential and experience make him an intriguing candidate to watch as he aims to make an impact with the Reds organization in the upcoming season.