Spring Training Preview: Julio Urias, Chris Taylor Debut In Dodgers Vs. Reds Game

The Los Angeles Dodgers again have an evening start, but are back at Camelback Ranch to face the Cincinnati Reds in what will be another seven-inning affair.

The Dodgers have gotten into the regular members of their starting rotation, and Julio Urias is next to make his 2021 debut. Urias is coming off a tremendous season that ended with him pitching out of the bullpen to help the Dodgers end their World Series drought.

Although the team has not publicly committed to such, it’s believed Urias will begin the regular season as the fifth member of the starting rotation. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has continued to implore each of Tony Gonsolin, Dustin May and Urias to prepare to be a starter.

Roberts also acknowledged it’s possible for each of the three pitchers to be included on the Opening Day roster.

Corey Knebel, Scott Alexander, Dennis Santana, Bobby Miller and Landon Knack are among the Dodgers pitchers who may appear Wednesday night.

The Reds start Jeff Hoffman, who they acquired along with Case Williams in a trade with the Colorado Rockies last November. Tejay Antone, Cionel Pérez, Josh Osich, Art Warren, Tony Santillan and Dauri Moreta are among the pitchers scheduled to appear for the Reds.

Cincinnati opened Cactus League play with back-to-back losses but rebounded with a win over the L.A. Angels on Tuesday.

Chris Taylor makes his 2021 debut after missing the initial games due to stiff neck that was a result of sleeping wrong. With Taylor getting the start at second base, it shifts Gavin Lux over to shortstop.

Roberts indicated the Dodgers are going to give Lux every opportunity to win the job at second base, but he is also viewed as an option to spell Corey Seager throughout the season.

Dodgers lineup

2B: Chris Taylor
1B: Max Muncy
3B: Justin Turner
C: Will Smith
RF: Matt Beaty
SS: Gavin Lux
CF: Zach McKinstry
LF: Luke Raley
DH: Zach Reks

Reds lineup

SS: Dee Strange-Gordon
LF: Scott Heineman
CF: Nick Senzel
RF: Aristides Aquino
DH: Alex Blandino
C: Tyler Stephenson
2B: Jonathan India
1B: Cheslor Cuthbert
3B: Max Schrock

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