Left-hander Alex Young, who is participating in spring training with the Reds on a non-roster invite, is seeking a second opinion regarding an elbow injury, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. Tommy John surgery is a potential outcome, as the injury could require a significant procedure.
Young, who pitched for the Reds over the past two seasons, was traded to the San Francisco Giants last July in exchange for outfielder Austin Slater. The Mets claimed Young off waivers but decided to non-tender him in the offseason, allowing the Reds to re-sign him to a minor league deal for 2025.
While Young has experienced a journeyman career lately, he’s been quietly effective over the past three seasons. Across 96 innings with the Guardians, Giants, Reds, and Mets, Young has posted a 3.28 ERA, a 20.5% strikeout rate, and a 9% walk rate, proving to be a solid depth option for teams in need.
However, Young’s 2025 spring training has been marred by struggles that are likely tied to his elbow issue. After a scoreless inning in his spring debut on February 22, he was absent from game action until March 4. His return on March 8 saw him surrendering six earned runs in just two innings in his final appearances before the elbow injury prompted further testing.
With six seasons in the majors and more than four years of MLB service time, Young has pitched a total of 277 2/3 innings in the big leagues. He carries a career 4.34 ERA, along with 24 holds and a save to his name.