Arbiter rules Aquino out of Minors options

The Reds were informed Wednesday that an arbiter ruled that outfielder Aristides Aquino is out of Minor League options, a decision that could have implications on the makeup of the club's Opening Day roster.

Utilized by MLB and the MLB Players Association to determine service time accrual, the arbiter did rule that pitchers Cionel Pérez and José De León will have a fourth Minor League option. That means they can be sent down without having to first clear waivers.

For the Reds to demote Aquino, he would have to go through the waivers process. He is competing for a reserve outfield spot this spring with Mark Payton and non-roster invitee Tyler Naquin.

“Yeah, it gives clarity, which is really important for any organization trying to make decisions this time of year, and for him,” Reds manager David Bell said. “It's important for him to know that, so that's good.”

Aquino, a right-handed slugger who turns 27 in April, burst onto the scene in August 2019 when he crushed 14 home runs during the month. But often struggling to find playing time and consistency at the plate, he spent a large portion of last season at the alternate training site.

In 23 games for the Reds in 2020, Aquino batted .170 with two homers. During Wednesday’s 6-5 loss to the Rangers, he went 2-for-3 with an RBI single in the second inning and a leadoff homer to left field in the bottom of the ninth.

Aquino has produced a .281/.395/.563 slash line through 16 Cactus League games.

Being out of options could give Aquino a better chance of making the club next week, but it’s far from certain. Cincinnati could also opt to carry five outfielders -- instead of four -- and carry one less infielder to make room.

“I don't think it's going to affect our decision-making very much in his case or any of the other guys. We're still going to make the best decision for our team and what's going to give us our best team on the first of April and throughout the year,” Bell said. “We've kind of talked about both scenarios and we're prepared for either way, and in the end, I don't think it's going to change much in how we're thinking about it.”

Gray update
Reds starting pitcher Sonny Gray, who will open the regular season on the injured list because of mid-back spasms, had a successful bullpen session Tuesday. Gray’s next throwing session in the bullpen is scheduled for Friday.

“I saw most of it, but before I had to leave, he looked good,” Bell said. “The fact that he has another one scheduled Friday, that’s a great sign. He recovered well.”

It has yet to be determined if Gray and injured outfielder Shogo Akiyama (left hamstring strain) will remain in Goodyear, Ariz., after camp breaks to continue their rehabilitation or go back to Cincinnati with the team.

“We’re finalizing that right now,” Bell said. “The biggest question just because of this year is what makes the most sense with numbers, protocols, intake testing. When they’re ready, is it best to have them near Cincinnati or out here? There is a lot to consider.”