Winker among Reds’ potential prospect callups

CINCINNATI — The end of August in the Major Leagues signals that reinforcements will soon be summoned. Rosters are allowed to expand on Sept. 1, often an opportunity for prospects and deserving players to get some exposure to the big leagues.

For the Reds, the possibilities this September offer some intrigue. Will outfielder Jesse Winker get his long-awaited promotion? Will pitcher Robert Stephenson be recalled despite an inconsistent year? Infielder Dilson Herrera, acquired from the Mets in the Jay Bruce trade on Aug. 1, should be wearing a Reds uniform for the first time.

One change from 2015, however, will be the reason behind many of the callups, especially for pitchers. Last season, with a roster depleted by trades and injuries, some promotions were not merit-based. The rotation started a rookie pitcher in each of the final 64 games of the season, a new record. Cincinnati also lost 14 of its final 15 games to end with 98 losses.

“Who has enough innings left? And who is available to start?” manager Bryan Price said of the Reds’ thinking last September. “I couldn’t imagine a worse environment in which to play … trying to fill holes with guys you didn’t necessarily see as long-term starters or may not be ready to start here. They were here based …

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