Right-hander Justin Dunn is set to showcase his pitching abilities and health in front of scouts on Tuesday, as reported by Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe. Just weeks after turning 29, Dunn hopes to make a comeback after nearly two full seasons sidelined by shoulder issues. Limited to just 3 1/3 innings in the Reds’ minor league system in 2023, Dunn then underwent shoulder surgery in September that year and has spent the entirety of this season rehabbing.
Dunn’s journey to the majors began as a promising prospect at Boston College, leading to his selection as the 19th overall pick by the Mets in the 2016 draft. His time in New York was brief, as he became a key piece in the 2018 trade that sent him to the Mariners in exchange for Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz. He was traded again in 2022, joining the Reds in a package that included Jake Fraley, Brandon Williamson, and Connor Phillips in exchange for Eugenio Suarez and Jesse Winker. Unfortunately, shoulder troubles followed him to Cincinnati, and while the Reds were aware of his injury history, the trade appeared motivated by payroll considerations.
In his last major league action in 2022, Dunn posted a 6.10 ERA over seven starts and 31 innings, leading the Reds to outright him off the 40-man roster. He subsequently opted for minor league free agency in the offseason.
Although Dunn’s career has been hindered by injury, he has shown glimpses of potential, with a 3.94 ERA over 102 2/3 innings in 25 starts for the Mariners between 2019 and 2021. However, his promising ERA was supported by a low .215 BABIP and marred by concerning peripherals, including a 19.3% strikeout rate and a 14.7% walk rate. Some scouts have long viewed Dunn as better suited to a bullpen role, which could help him manage his workload and potentially improve his results.
Following his showcase, Dunn could attract interest from teams looking for affordable pitching depth, likely on a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. With no-risk potential, he may be a worthwhile option for teams hoping to strike gold on a former top prospect looking to revive his career.
