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Jeff Hoffman, for many, might not seem like an ideal candidate for a starting role given his history. He spent the first six years of his career as a starter but struggled significantly, particularly during his tenure with the Colorado Rockies — an organization noted for its struggles with pitching development. The challenging conditions in Colorado, combined with Hoffman’s early career inconsistencies, led to his demotion back to the bullpen.

When the Cincinnati Reds picked him up at the beginning of the 2021 season, they initially started him. But, sensing a lack of effectiveness, they shifted him to a relief role in July of that year. After two mediocre seasons with the Reds, Hoffman's career took off in 2023 with the Philadelphia Phillies.