Reds Sign Former Phillies Pitcher

The Cincinnati Reds have been active in the early part of the MLB offseason. With the signing of Jeimer Candelario, it's clear that they're looking to bring in veterans who can make an impact with their young roster.

Other Reds moves were impressive, including the additions of Emilio Pagan and Nick Martinez. Pitching help is a must for Cincinnati as they look to make the postseason in 2024.

The team announced on Tuesday that they've re-signed former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, Ben Lively, who signed a Major League contract for a one-year worth $750,000 per Zack Meisel of The Athletic. 

Lively, who spent the 2017 season and part of the 2018 season with the Phillies, has pitched for the Kansas City Royals and the Reds in his big-league career. The right-hander can be used as a starter and reliever, which is valuable to MLB teams.

The struggles for Lively weren't as bad as they seemed last year after he posted an ERA of 5.38 and a 1.36 WHIP. In a start against the Chicago Cubs, he gave up 13 earned runs in four innings. Prior to that, he entered the game with a 3.76 ERA and left with a 5.20 ERA.

That occurred in August, indicating he was above average for most of the season.

Lively has shown some bright spots at times, including last season when he struck out 79 and walked 25 over in 88 2/3 innings pitched.

During his time in Philadelphia, he posted an ERA of 4.26 and had a 4-7 record. Lively then posted with a 6.85 ERA in five games during the 2018 season.