After strengthening their pitching rotation by acquiring two top stars, The Cincinnati Reds are once again tapping into pitchers with Kansas City Royals connections. Reports from February 11 indicate the Reds have signed former Royals relievers . According to ESPN’s one is on a one-year deal is valued at $2.5 million, while the Reds’ official website notes that he has signed a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training.
Joining Cincinnati could reunite both relievers with Singer, their former teammate in Kansas City.
Scott Barlow’s Performance Since Leaving Kansas City
Barlow debuted with the Royals in 2018 and eventually took over as closer in 2021 after Greg Holland briefly reclaimed the role following Trevor Rosenthal’s trade to the Padres in 2020. Barlow recorded 16 saves in 2021, a career-high 24 in 2022, and had 13 in 2023 before Kansas City, en route to a 106-loss season, traded him to San Diego for minor leaguers Henry Williams and Jesus Rios just before the trade deadline.
With the Padres, Barlow wasn’t used as a closer and didn’t receive any save opportunities, but he still performed well. In 25 appearances, he posted a 3.07 ERA and struck out 26% of batters faced.
He returned to the American League with the Cleveland Guardians in 2024 but struggled. Over the season, he went 3-3 with a 4.25 ERA, two saves, and a high 5.07 BB/9 before being released in mid-September as the Guardians prepared for the postseason.
Josh Staumont’s Ups and Downs
Like Barlow, right-hander Josh Staumont had some impressive moments with Kansas City. He was particularly effective in 2021, finishing with a 2.45 ERA and a 192 ERA+ over 26 games. The following season, he appeared in 64 games, pitching 65.2 innings with a 2.45 ERA, a 4-3 record, and five saves.
However, injuries derailed his career. In late 2022, right biceps tendinitis ended his season prematurely in August. He returned in April 2023 but was sidelined again by a neck injury in June, limiting him to just 20 innings and a 5.40 ERA before becoming a free agent after the Royals non-tendered him in November.
Staumont briefly joined the Minnesota Twins in 2024, but after posting a 3.70 ERA in 25 games, they released him in early August. He then signed with the Chicago Cubs but never played in the majors and was cut after just 13 days.
What’s Next for Barlow and Staumont in Cincinnati?
With Alexis Díaz firmly established as Cincinnati’s closer—he has 75 saves over the past three seasons, including 37 in 2023 and 28 in 2024—Barlow and Staumont aren’t expected to handle many save opportunities. Barlow’s major league deal gives him a stronger chance of making the Opening Day roster, while Staumont may need to prove himself in spring training. Still, both pitchers could play key bullpen roles under new Reds manager Terry Francona throughout the 2025 season.