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Ashcraft (elbow) threw a live batting practice session Thursday, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Ashcraft looks to be opening spring training without any restrictions after he didn't pitch after the All-Star break last season due to a right elbow strain. The 27-year-old will be vying for a spot in the Opening Day rotation, but with the Reds adding Brady Singer in the offseason, the team may not have a starting role available for Ashcraft. The right-hander could change minds with a strong showing in spring training, but his track record as a starter over parts of three big-league seasons isn't overly impressive (4.91 ERA, 1.52 WHIP in 328 innings), and his lack of reliable offerings beyond his big fastball and slider could make him a better fit in the bullpen.
