Cincinnati Reds offseason review

The Cincinnati Reds had a busy off-season this year. General Manager Erff stayed clear of the free agent market but was quite active on the trade front. While most of the Starting line-up for the Reds remains the same with reigning NL MVP Omar Nixon in the clean-up spot again and the slugging Carlos's right behind him, thw bench however has been completely overhauled. In an attempt to improve overall defense utility man Al Sanchez was traded in a deal which brought Felipe Ontiveros to Cincinnati who should wind up as the Reds opening day shortstop. This move allowed Al Uribe to move to right field where he should be much more effective. Last years right fielder and one time rule 5 draft pick Dale Hume was traded for SS prospect Juan Barajas who is hoped to one day be a fixture at shortstop for a long time in Cincy. Something the Reds have not had since the days of Davey Rodriguez.

With a new back-up catcher, (a job yet to be won in spring training) and back-up outfielder Matt Larkin and utility man Nicky Hogan (a sentimental waiver claim) Cincinnati's bench has a whole new look.

As far as pitching the starting rotation is much the same as it was. Cy Young winners Yamil Pulido Mel Wagner, Santiago Manto return as the top three while the Reds look for a breakout year from young hopeful Bruce Kinney and continued mediocrity from one Yorvit Castillo. Kent Heredia, along with a frustrated Willis Ulrich (just couldn't make the jump) were moved in a blockbuster that netted three prospects destined to one day grace the field of GABP.

Fireman winner Mitchell Ray returns as closer with an aging yet still effective Gabe Lee and a much misunderstood Max Warden setting up for him. The rest of the pen remains the same minus one Greg Wells and plus a much anticipated Jaime Philips.

Though they'll likely start the year in AAA, Midre Davis, Tommie Jefferies and Roger Merrick all hope to make it up the show at some point this year. We shall see won't we......

Reds fans will tolerate nothing less than another division title this year and do indeed expect it. One wonders how long they'll tolerate the Reds consistent failure in the postseason however. Someone may need to get their resume in order after this one.

Omar Nixon Cincinnati Reds Age: 27 B/T: R/R Born: Mayer, AZ Position(s): 1B/LF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Yamil Pulido Cincinnati Reds Age: 26 B/T: R/R Born: Los Llanos, DO Position(s): P (P) View Hardball Dynasty Profile