Cincinnati Reds: Ranking the free agent signings this offseason

3. Shogo Akiyama, Outfielder

Three-year/$21M deal

Now, we’re getting somewhere. The acquisition of Shogo Akiyama was a groundbreaking signing by the Cincinnati Reds. Akiyama will be the first Japanese-born player to suit up for the Reds. That in and of itself is something significant, but more so than that is Akiyama’s potential at the dish. If his game translates from NPB to MLB, this could be the best signing of the offseason.

Akiyama is a bit of an unknown, as he’s yet to play a game in the majors. However, Akiyama has hit over .300 in four the past five seasons he played in Japan. During that same span, Akiyama hit 94 home runs and played phenomenal defense. Critics warn of Akiyama declining in this area, but with the small outfield at Great American Ball Park, it may not be a huge concern.

Akiyama brings great versatility to the Reds, as the front office has expressed the desire to see him play all over the field. Akiyama gives Cincinnati great insurance in the event Nick Senzel isn’t healthy to begin the season, is switched to a different position, or is traded prior to the 2020 season beginning.

Shogo Akiyama will be a regular atop the Cincinnati Reds batting order. Look for Akiyama to be the table-setter for the likes of Eugenio Suárez, Nick Castellanos and Mike Moustakas. Akiyama’s on-base percentage has hovered at or above .400 for the past five seasons. Akiyama has concerns defensively, but those will be quickly forgotten if he produces at the plate.