Here's how Reds' roster is taking form

Here's how Reds' roster is taking form

March 5th, 2019

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- As the Reds enjoy their first scheduled off-day from Cactus League games, they’re just about at the halfway point of Spring Training. Unlike past years, the roster questions aren’t numerous. But there have been developments and there is plenty to watch before camp breaks March 24.

Just before pitchers and catchers reported to the Reds’ complex, MLB.com made predictions about who would be on the 25-man roster for Opening Day vs. the Pirates on March 28.

Now is a good time to revisit and update the picks.

Catcher (2): ,

What changed? This duo remains expected to stick with Barnhart getting most of the time behind the plate. It was revealed after camp opened that Casali is recovering from left hip surgery that repaired his labrum. He’s been on a modified camp schedule and has yet to get into a game. If there was a setback, it could open a spot for Kyle Farmer or Rule 5 pick Connor Joe.

First base (1):

What changed? Nothing at all.

Second base (1):

What changed? No changes.

Third base (1):

What changed? This also remains the same.

Shortstop (2): ,

What changed? A free agent formerly with the Tigers, Iglesias was signed to a Minor League deal that would earn him $2.5 million this season if he makes the team. Upon the signing, manager David Bell made it clear that Peraza is his starter and Iglesias is a backup. He can also play second base and third base, if needed.

Outfield (5): Nick Senzel, , , ,

What changed? The boldest prediction here is that Senzel makes the team as a non-roster invite to become the everyday center fielder. So far, the Reds’ No. 1 prospect and a career infielder has acquitted himself well in a new position. For this to happen, the front office would have to overlook service time concerns and not delay his promotion for an extra year before free agency. That would run counter to the club’s aggressive offseason of making improvements and creating a winning culture. Sending off Senzel after a good spring because of service time would send a mixed message.

Also, Bell has made it pretty clear that Puig will get most of his time in right field and that he likes Winker having regular at-bats. Where that leaves Kemp remains a mystery. It would not be stunning if the Reds looked for a trade partner if the situation remains crowded at the end of camp.

Utility (1):

What changed? Dietrich, a former Marlin, was signed to a Minor League deal on Feb. 19. He will earn $2 million this season, with the chance for an additional $500,000 in performance bonuses if he makes the team. He can play first base, second base, third base and left field.

Starting pitcher (5): RHP , LHP , RHP , RHP , RHP

What changed? Nothing other than Bell named this as the starting five early in camp. He has yet to determine the order, though. Gray has not made a start since right elbow stiffness got him scratched from the Cactus League opener. However, he appears on track to be ready for the season.

Relief pitcher (7): RHP , RHP , RHP , RHP , LHP , LHP , LHP

What changed? On the original prediction, Sal Romano made it. But he hasn’t fared great through the early outings with four walks, five hits and five earned runs in four innings over three games. It’s a small sample size, as is Peralta’s three scoreless innings with no walks. Peralta would also give the bullpen a third lefty. An eighth reliever is still possible as Bell noted the club would likely carry eight relievers and four bench players over most of the season.

Here's the full rundown of the Reds’ latest 25-man roster projection:

CATCHERS
Tucker Barnhart
Curt Casali

INFIELDERS
Joey Votto
Scooter Gennett
Eugenio Suarez
Jose Peraza
Jose Iglesias

OUTFIELDERS
Jesse Winker
Yasiel Puig
Nick Senzel
Scott Schebler
Matt Kemp

UTILITY PLAYERS
Derek Dietrich

STARTING PITCHERS
Sonny Gray
Alex Wood
Luis Castillo
Tanner Roark
Anthony DeSclafani

RELIEF PITCHERS
Raisel Iglesias
Jared Hughes
David Hernandez
Michael Lorenzen
Zach Duke
Amir Garrett
Wandy Peralta