Cincinnati Reds: Three shortstops who could backup up Freddy Galvis

2. Jordy Mercer

Speaking of a nice veteran presence, Jordy Mercer would certainly add that to next year’s Cincinnati Reds squad. Mercer spent last season in Detroit after a seven-year career with the Reds division rival, the Pittsburgh Pirates. Mercer suffered an injury-riddled 2019, but could be in line for a bounce back season in 2020.

Mercer was a solid, yet unspectacular player for the Pirates from 2012-2018. He was a steady presence for the Buccos. Mercer was replaced by youngster Kevin Newman last season and found a home in the Motor City. Unfortunately, injuries plagued the early part of the 2019 season, and Mercer didn’t find regular playing until July.

Mercer tore up opposing pitching over the final two months of the season. The right-handed hitting Mercer slashed .325/.356/.516 in August and September. Mercer, unlike Freddy Galvis and José Iglesias, is not an elite-level defender. According to FanGraphs, Mercer’s recorded -9 DRS the past two seasons.

Jordy Mercer could be a fantastic offensive option to back up Galvis at shortstop. Mercer played all four infield positions for the Detroit Tigers last season, and could fill a similar role for the Cincinnati Reds in 2020. Mercer hasn’t had the most success while playing at Great American Ball Park, but maybe that could change if he dons a different colored jersey.