Holmberg looks to impress in Reds camp

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- A new face at Reds camp, left-handed starting pitcher David Holmberg knows that if he can't crack the deep rotation, he wants to be able to do the next best thing: impress enough to be the first called up if something happens.

"I feel like this Spring Training will be important to make a good impression," Holmberg said. "The pieces will fall where they may. I'm just going to pitch the way I can and if they fall in my favor, that's fantastic."

Holmberg, 22, was acquired from the D-backs in the December three-team trade that sent catcher Ryan Hanigan to the Rays. Last season at Double-A Mobile, he was 5-8 with a 2.75 ERA in 26 starts. In 157 1/3 innings, he allowed 138 hits and 50 walks while striking out 116. He made one big league start for Arizona on Aug. 27 vs. San Diego and pitched 3 2/3 innings.

The Reds expect Holmberg to provide depth from Triple-A Louisville.

"I feel like they wanted me," Holmberg said. "I'm going to try and perform the way they think that I can."