Cincinnati Reds camp battle: Nick Senzel versus Shogo Akiyama

Prediction: Nick Senzel will start in CF on Opening Day

This will be an interesting battle to follow during spring camp, but unlike last year, Nick Senzel will not be fighting for a spot on the 26-man roster. Provided they’re healthy, both Senzel and Shogo Akiyama will be on the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day roster. However, I think the nod will go to Senzel, who still has a bright future in the Queen City.

Opening Day is an event in Cincinnati, and this will be a first for both Senzel and Akiyama, as Senzel began last season at Triple-A Louisville. In the end, however, I expect Senzel to get the start in center field and fully expect him to be leading off against the St. Louis Cardinals presumptive starting pitcher, Jack Flaherty.

In saying that, don’t rule out the possibility of both Senzel and Akiyama taking the field together on Opening Day. Akiyama’s ability to play the corner outfield spots could land him the start in left field, while free agent pickup Nick Castellanos earns the start in right field.

Perhaps the real camp battle will not be for center field, but rather left field. Jesse Winker is entering a make-it or break-it season after ending the past two years on the injured list. Aristides Aquino exploded onto the scene in August, but faded down the stretch. You’ve also got the likes of Phillip Ervin and Scott Schebler who are looking for a seat at the table.

The outfield battle itself will be one to watch during camp, and Blog Red Machine will take a closer look at that during the coming days. Both Nick Senzel and Shogo Akiyama will see the field plenty in 2020 and both will be integral in Cincinnati’s quest for the NL Central crown this coming season.