The Cincinnati Reds have added outfield depth via two waiver claims. Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Angels announced they were placing multiple players on waivers. The Reds were 15th in the order to claim any of the players placed out across Major League Baseball. Although pitching has been an area of concern for the Reds, the Cleveland Guardians claimed the former Angels big-name pitchers. This left the Reds in a particular dilemma: pass on the remaining players available, or add what you can to help your current roster.
Welcome to Cincinnati, Harrison Bader and Hunter Renfroe‼️ pic.twitter.com/l4Enrpe1WO
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 31, 2023
The two additions by the Cincinnati Reds come in the form of right-handed hitting outfielders. Harrison Bader from the New York Yankees and Hunter Renfroe from the Angels were the two pickups for the playoff-hopeful Reds. How do these guys help the team, and how do they fit in with a young constructed roster?
Cincinnati Reds Add Outfield Depth via Waivers: How Should They Be Utilized?
Bader was the first addition announced Thursday for the Cincinnati Reds. A former third-round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals, Bader has primarily played center field his entire career. In 621 career games, he has spent all but 46 games in center. The Reds seemed to have found a solid center fielder already this season in TJ Friedl. Friedl has not only displayed Gold Glove-caliber defense in center, but has shown the ability to hit left-handed pitching as well. Friedl’s slash line this season against lefties is .312/.361/.429. This is good for a 111 wRC+ per fangraphs.
Bader himself finds more success against the southpaw pitchers as well. In 2023, Bader’s slash line sits at .343/.392/.687 with four home runs and a wRC+ of 191. Against righties, he has posted just a .510 OPS and a 40 wRC+.
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With Friedl’s ability to hit lefties, along with his defensive presence in the outfield, a platoon option with Bader seems unlikely. The more logical option is a platoon in left field with current outfielder Will Benson, as Benson can’t hit lefties. Furthermore, the Reds announced that recently called-up infielder Alejo Lopez was DFA’d. With no indication of Jonathan India returning soon, Spencer Steer may be asked to play primarily at second base going forward. This move becomes more likely if rookie Matt McLain misses significant time while dealing with an oblique strain.
Will Hunter Renfroe Stay in the Outfield, or Be Used at First Base?
The more interesting pickup as far as playing position is Renfroe. Right field is the primary home of Hunter Renfroe. The position has recently been occupied by Nick Martini, who the Reds called up just last week. With Jake Fraley sent on a rehab assignment a few days ago, his return to the ball club appears imminent.
The #Reds today sent OF Jake Fraley (stress fracture, left fourth toe) to Triple-A Louisville on a rehab assignment. pic.twitter.com/H7UmzLzji8
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 29, 2023
In the meantime, Renfroe can be a solid platoon option in right field with Martini. When Fraley returns to the roster, you could see him fill the everyday designated hitter role as well. In that case, the team could option TJ Hopkins in order to make room for Fraley. That would keep Benson and Renfroe in the outfield as a platoon. Another option with Renfroe is first base. His ability to play first could give Christian Encarnacion-Strand a day off when needed.
Final Thoughts
The Cincinnati Reds found a way to get better today with two waiver additions. By going outside the box and finding other ways to improve this team, they were able to set themselves up for the final month. Getting two power bats will be a big contributing factor in their success as they chase down a playoff spot. With both players having past postseason experience, they can also help mentor a young team in Cincinnati. A job well done to the Reds front office.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
