Cincinnati Reds: Three non-roster invitees that could make the team

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PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 28: R.J. Alaniz #32 of the Cincinnati Reds delivers a pitch in the twelfth inning during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 28, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

1. R.J. Alaniz, Right-handed pitcher

The Cincinnati Reds can use as many bullpen arms as they can get. I think all of Reds Country feels comfortable including Michael Lorenzen, Amir Garrett, Robert Stephenson, Raisel Iglesias, and Lucas Sims among those who are locks for the Cincinnati bullpen in 2020. That leaves three spots up for grabs, and R.J. Alaniz could snag one of those last spots on the roster.

Alaniz was originally part of the Seattle Mariners organization to begin the 2019 season. It was an experience he’d like to forget. Alaniz started the season with Seattle’s Triple-A affiliate, the Tacoma Rainiers. Alaniz was called up to the big leagues on April 12th and gave up four runs during his two innings of work.

Alaniz was picked up off waivers by the Cincinnati Reds in May and sent to Triple-A Louisville. In 24 games with the Bats, Alaniz allowed 25 hits over 27.2 innings of work. He struck out 31 batters and allowed just one home run during his time in the Derby City. Alaniz ended his time in Louisville with a 2.93 ERA before being promoted to Cincinnati.

R.J. Alaniz pitched in 12 games for the Reds, going 11.2 innings, allowed 7 runs, walked 4 batters, and struck out 7 as well. The Reds outrighted Alaniz in December, but he signed a minor-league deal with the club and will be in Goodyear for spring training. Alaniz will have an uphill climb to overcome the likes of Matt Bowman, Cody Reed, and Sal Romano, but he’ll be given the chance.

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