Cincinnati Reds: Five bold predictions for spring training

5. Kyle Farmer earns a starting spot on Opening Day

Kyle Farmer is a virtual lock to make the Opening Day roster. The Georgia native is versatile enough to play all over the infield, including behind the plate. With Eugenio Suárez potentially missing a few games to start the season, there could be an opening at third base. Farmer has a legitimate shot to start on Opening Day if Geno is still on the mend.

We all want Suárez to be ready for the start of the regular season, and it appears that may happen. The latest report from Mark Sheldon of MLB.com suggests that Geno, who was thought to be questionable to start the season due to a shoulder injury, may be ready for action when the St. Louis Cardinals come to town on March 26th.

However, if Suárez is unable to go on Opening Day, the infield will have to endure a bit of shuffling. There’s several routes the Reds could go, but its very likely that Mike Moustakas would slide over and play third base. Should that happen, there’ll be a vacancy at second base.

Cincinnati has no shortage of player capable of playing second base. Josh VanMeter, Alex Blandino, perhaps Nick Senzel, and even the recently signed Derek Dietrich can all occupy the position. But don’t be surprised if Farmer emerges and snags a starting spot in lineup if Suárez is out of commission to begin the season.

According to Mark Sheldon of MLB.com, Reds skipper David Bell sees the need for depth at shortstop and is likely to give Farmer a long look during spring training. If there’s any injury to another infielder during camp, Farmer will likely get the call. It may seem like a long shot, but while the outfield depth is excessive, the Reds are very thin across the infield.

So there you have it folks. Five bold predictions for the Cincinnati Reds during spring training. Which do you see as the most likely? Which one is sure to be wrong? What’s your bold prediction for the team over the next several weeks?