“Reds Pitcher Jose Franco Shines in Surprise Opening Day Performance”

Mo. Basuony

Published: March 29, 2026 1:24 PM ET

The Great American Ball Park welcomed Opening Day with its traditional flyover. Unexpected roster moves added drama before the first pitch.

Franco’s sudden promotion

Jose Franco was among the earlier spring training cuts on March 6. He thought he would remain in the minors.

On March 24, Pat Kelly of the Louisville Bats called with a surprise. The Reds recalled the 25-year-old right-hander to replace Nick Lodolo.

Franco is listed as Cincinnati’s No. 12 prospect by MLB Pipeline. He went 10-4 with a 3.11 ERA last season.

Those numbers came over 26 starts and five relief appearances. His work spanned Double-A and Triple-A.

Franco appeared in three spring games and started two. He allowed five hits and two runs in 4 2/3 innings.

He struck out eight batters and issued one walk. The small sample helped his case for a roster spot.

Nick Lodolo began the season on the injured list because of a blister. Caleb Ferguson also landed on the IL.

Hunter Greene is on the 60-day injured list after elbow surgery. The club adjusted its rotation plans.

The Reds briefly used a “six-for-five” hybrid approach to limit innings. Several young starters were not fully stretched out.

Manager Terry Francona said Franco is stretched out and ready for length. He added Franco likely would not be used in consecutive bullpen outings.

Francona suggested Franco would probably not pitch on Opening Day. He expected Franco to be available starting Saturday for multiple innings.

First baseman Sal Stewart experienced his first Opening Day. He had been a September call-up in 2025 and helped the club reach the postseason.

Stewart took a 110 mph liner off his lower forearm in the fourth inning. He remained in the game and later hit a two-out single to load the bases.

Rookies Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder did not take part in the Opening Day action.

Reds pitcher Jose Franco shines with a surprise call-up that gives Cincinnati fresh depth. He savored the atmosphere at Great American Ball Park.

Brady Singer is scheduled to start the Saturday game against Boston. He will face former Red Sonny Gray at 4:10 p.m.

Filmogaz.com will monitor Franco’s first big-league appearance. The club sees him as a candidate to contribute early in the season.