Manager David Bell said Sunday that Sims likely won't be ready for Opening Day after entering spring training behind schedule due to elbow and back issues, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Sims isn't currently injured, but having to deal with the elbow and back injuries while prepping for spring training is likely to delay his availability for the start of the season. The 27-year-old could open the campaign on the injured list, though any absence isn't expected to be a lengthy one. Sims is the favorite to operate as Cincinnati's closer to open the season, but that job could fall to Art Warren if Sims is indeed unavailable.