After some confusion last week about the condition of top stars elbow, it was initially reported that he had undergone surgery. However, it was later clarified that he was seeking a second opinion. Ultimately, the Cincinnati Reds right-hander has now indeed had Tommy John surgery and will be sidelined for the entire 2025 season. Mark Sheldon of Reds.com first reported this development.
Drafted in the 12th round in 2021, Aguiar quickly climbed through the Reds’ farm system. As the team’s #10 prospect, he was named the 2023 Minor League Pitcher of the Year and seemed on track to repeat this achievement until he was called up to the majors in August. Aguiar made three starts for the Reds in August, followed by four in September. In his last outing, he allowed seven runs over just four innings against Atlanta. The Reds lost that game 15-3, marking their first defeat in a game he started. It also turned out to be his last appearance, as he was placed on the injured list a few days later with an elbow sprain.
Given the timing, Aguiar’s season was effectively over as he wouldn’t have been eligible to return before its end. Now, it’s clear that the injury is severe enough to cost him the entire 2025 season.
During his month in the majors, Aguiar showed mixed results, with three strong starts, a solid debut, and three struggles. He pitched 31.2 innings in total, ending with a 6.25 ERA, allowing 30 hits, 12 walks, eight home runs, five hit batters, and 19 strikeouts.
Before spring training, it seemed Aguiar was a long shot for a rotation spot, but his injury further reduces Cincinnati’s depth. Both he and Brandon Williamson are now confirmed out for 2025. The Reds currently have Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, and Rhett Lowder as potential starters, with one open slot that could go to Jakob Junis, Carson Spiers, Graham Ashcraft, or a prospect like Chase Petty, Connor Phillips (if he bounces back from 2024), or a new acquisition via free agency or trade.
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