Reds add bullpen reinforcement, acquire RHP Nicolas from Pirates

GOODYEAR, Ariz. – The Reds acquired right-hander Kyle Nicolas from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder/outfielder Tyler Callihan (formerly Cincinnati's No. 19 prospect) on Wednesday. The 27-year-old Nicolas has appeared in 86 games over three seasons, and posted a career-best 1.37 WHIP in 31 games (38 innings) last season.

Nicolas has not allowed a run in two innings of work with the Pirates this spring, having most recently appeared in Pittsburgh’s 6-1 win over Baltimore on Feb. 27. The Reds’ bullpen has gotten off to a slow start, as its relievers have combined for a 7.23 ERA, which ranks last in MLB, and a 1.69 WHIP, which ranks 29th.

Nicolas’ three-pitch arsenal is dominated by his four-seam fastball, which accounted for 51 percent of his pitches in 2025, while he used his slider (27%) and curveball (22%) more sparingly. His four-seamer tops out at 97.6 mph, and his 34 strikeouts last season were split equally between left and right-handed batters.

Nicolas faced 167 batters last season, allowing 34 hits, including three home runs. His WHIP was marginally better against right-handed batters last season (1.28 vs. 1.50), though he issued more walks to lefties (11 vs. seven).

Callihan was drafted 85th overall by the Reds out of high school in 2019. The utility player fractured his left forearm last season – just four games into his MLB career – and underwent surgery to repair both bones in his forearm. Spring Training is the first time he’s returned to games since his surgery in May.

Callihan has struggled with injuries during his career, requiring Tommy John surgery in 2021.