Report: Cincinnati Reds Veteran Opts Out of Contract to Become Free Agent

Wilkerson signed a minor league deal with the Reds in January.

Reds prospects pitcher Aaron Wilkerson throws a pitch in the first inning of the final spring training game between the Cincinnati Reds and Reds prospects, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Day Air Ballpark in Dayton. | Frank Bowen IV/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Cincinnati Reds veteran pitcher Aaron Wilkerson has opted out of his minor league contract, according to Ari Alexander of KPRC2.

The veteran right-hander had a 4.17 ERA over 18 starts with Triple-A Louisville. He had 78 strikeouts with a WHIP of 1.06 in 95 innings.

The 36-year-old made 14 appearances in the majors with the Milwaukee Brewers from 2017-2019 and had an ERA of 6.88 during that time.

With Chase Petty and Brian Van Belle ahead of him in Louisville, it's no surprise Wilkerson opted out of his deal and will likely sign with a team who he sees a path to the big leagues.

You can see Alexander's full announcement below:

Source: Veteran RHP starter Aaron Wilkerson has opted out of his Triple-A contract with the #Reds.

He has made 18 starts with a 4.17 ERA (1.06 WHIP) for the Louisville Bats.

He made 32 starts in Korea for the Lotte Giants last year. pic.twitter.com/jWTuM3G2cq

— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) July 16, 2025

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