GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- After weeks of workouts, preparation and spring games, the Reds are ready to begin playing games that count. Cincinnati is hoping to put its rebuilding era in the past and make progress in its goal to compete in the National League Central.
It could be a tough task, but the club will certainly be interesting, featuring four promising young arms in the rotation, an improved bullpen and an experienced starting lineup.
Here's a rundown of how the Reds are looking heading into Thursday's opener vs. reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer and the Nationals.