Brandon Williamson Activated by Reds After Shoulder Injury; Brito Also Recalled

Brandon Williamson is back in a Reds uniform. Cincinnati activated the left-hander after a shoulder injury had kept him sidelined since April, with the club also recalling Brito from the minors to fill a second expanded roster spot, per Mark Sheldon of MLB.com.

Williamson's return gives Cincinnati a rotation piece — or at minimum a bulk arm — that has been absent for the better part of the season. What his role looks like from here, and how quickly the club ramps him up after such a lengthy absence, remains unconfirmed.

The roster picture around him

The Reds are navigating a crowded injury and availability log heading into September. Nick Lodolo has dealt with a recurring blister on his throwing hand from his breaking ball grip, resulting in two stints on the shelf this season. Elly De La Cruz, who exited a game with quadriceps tightness, has since returned to the lineup in a DH role. Eugenio Suárez is set to miss two games to attend his US naturalization test.

What we don't know yet

Williamson's specific role — starter, reliever, or stretched-out option — has not been detailed in the available reporting. The same goes for Brito's expected usage. Both moves are framed as expanded roster additions, which leaves the operational picture open.