Cincinnati Reds Tap Former Guardians Assistant Joe Torres as Pitching Coach

In a move that many saw coming, the Cincinnati Reds announced on Thursday that they have hired Joe Torres to serve as the club’s new pitching coach. Torres arrives from Cleveland, where he spent the past five years as the Guardians’ assistant pitching coach, and he’ll replace the outgoing staff member after a turbulent 2026 campaign.

The 44‑year‑old Torres isn’t a stranger to the Reds’ front office. Terry Francona, who now manages Cincinnati, worked with Torres on the Guardians’ bench in 2022 and 2023, and the two developed a good rapport during that time. That familiarity helped smooth the interview process and, frankly, gave the Reds a bit of comfort knowing they were bringing in someone who already fits Francona’s philosophy.

Torres’ résumé is a blend of playing and coaching experience. Drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Angels in 2000, he later wore the uniforms of the White Sox, Dodgers, Rangers and Rockies before hanging up his cleats in 2013. He then cut his teeth in the minors, spending five seasons in Cleveland’s farm system before moving up to the big‑league bench as an assistant.

What does he inherit? A staff led by Chase Burns, who was a bright spot last year—fourth in the National League with 15 wins and ninth with 185 strikeouts. Yet the overall picture was grim: Cincinnati posted the third‑highest ERA in MLB (4.83) and a starting‑rotation ERA of 4.97. The Reds finished last in the NL Central at 75‑87, a steep drop after making the postseason in 2025.

Fans and analysts alike are hoping Torres can bring some of the Guardians’ pitching‑development tricks to the Riverfront. His track record suggests he knows how to work with young arms and get veteran pitchers to adjust their mechanics on the fly. If he can translate that know‑how to Cincinnati, the Reds could see a noticeable dip in runs allowed and maybe finally get back into contention.

Only time will tell whether the partnership between Francona and Torres bears fruit, but the optimism in the clubhouse feels genuine. As the offseason progresses, Cincinnati will be watching closely to see if the new pitching coach can help the team rewrite the narrative that began with a disappointing 2026 season.