2. Nick Senzel
If the Cincinnati Reds do sign Marcell Ozuna this offseason, Nick Senzel becomes one of the primary trade chips in the organization. After signing Shogo Akiyama, Senzel’s future became a bit cloudy. The former infielder may be pushed out as the team’s primary centerfielder next season, especially if Cincinnati signs Ozuna.
Akiyama, according to C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic, is viewed by the organization as a player who can play all over the outfield, not just up the middle. However, if Ozuna inks a deal with the Reds, you can bet that Akiyama will become the team’s primary centerfielder while the former Cardinals slugger takes over in left.
So what would become of Nick Senzel if Ozuna signs with Cincinnati? I foresee two options. First, the Reds could opt to switch Senzel from center field to shortstop. Three of the four infield spots are set heading into 2020, but Freddy Galvis is currently the best option at shortstop. Though he has just one inning of professional experience at the position, there’s reason to believe Senzel could make the transition.
The second, and perhaps, more likely option, is that Senzel is packaged in a trade. If Dick Williams and Nick Krall are toying with the idea of dealing Senzel, then it’s not going to be for a player to be named later. Senzel possesses a ton of upside and potential, and could be the key piece in a possible deal for Francisco Lindor or Corey Seager.