Jones makes roster as Reds trim 5 players
Dietrich among group reassigned to alternate training site
CINCINNATI -- The Reds made five cuts on Saturday while also informing reliever and Northern Kentucky resident Nate Jones that he made their Opening Day roster.
Reassigned to the alternate training site at Prasco Park in Mason, Ohio, were pitchers Jesse Biddle, Alex Powers and R.J. Alaniz, utility player Derek Dietrich and infielder Alfredo Rodriguez.
Born in Covington, Ky., and currently residing in Butler, the 34-year-old Jones starred for Northern Kentucky University’s baseball team in college.
Over 284 career games in the Major Leagues with the White Sox from 2012-19, Jones is 22-13 with a 3.12 ERA and 1.22 WHIP. His 318 strikeouts in that span led all White Sox relievers.
In May 2019, Jones suffered a torn flexor mass muscle and had season-ending surgery. He appeared in only 13 games last season, while posting a 3.48 ERA and career-worst 1.65 WHIP.
But Jones pitched well in Spring Training and also looked good in Summer Camp to earn a spot on the 30-man roster when the Reds host the Tigers for Opening Day on Friday.