Cincinnati Reds: Taylor Trammell’s ascension will dictate free agency

The case to re-sign Yasiel Puig

When it comes to what the Reds’ future plans for Yasiel Puig, we first need to determine if the slugger even be in a Cincinnati uniform past July 31st. Puig’s name is sure to be swirling in trade rumors as we approach the trade deadline, but if the Reds are in contention, I doubt you’ll see Puig on the move.

Yasiel Puig brings elite-level defense to the Cincinnati Reds. Though it appears as though Puig does not understand the definition of a cut-off man, his rocket for an arm eliminates the need to do so. Puig also has the speed and instincts to track down balls in right field. Though some might question his silly one-handed catches, I can’t remember him dropping a ball due to showboating.

Puig’s speed on the base paths cannot be undervalued. Though base stealing comes at premium in today’s game. Puig has shown a tremendous amount of hustle and a willingness to put himself in scoring position. He’s a real threat to swipe 25-plus bags this season.

Yasiel Puig also brings ridiculous power to the dish. The slugger is currently sitting on 20 home runs and as the summer heats up, the balls are likely to fly out of Great American Ball Park at an alarming rate.

The problem with re-signing Puig comes down to what he’s looking for in terms of a contract. How much and how long? If the Reds are able to convince Puig to re-sign for two or three years, I’m all in. However, if he’s looking for a four or five-year contract, I’d be very hesitant to make that deal.

If the Cincinnati Reds re-sign Puig and let Scooter walk, you could envision a future outfield of Jesse Winker in left, Trammell in center, and Puig in right. A move like this would relocate Nick Senzel to second base, a position that he’s quite familiar with.