Cincinnati Reds: Three players who could benefit from expanded rosters

3. Derek Dietrich, Infielder

While an additional relief pitcher could be advantageous, should the rosters expand, Derek Dietrich  may have an outside shot to make the squad. I think Dietrich’s chances of making the team are better than 50% without an additional spot or two, but if the rosters are expanded, Dietz chances of making the Opening Day roster really increase.

Yes, we all know about Dietrich’s fall from grace last summer. After an explosive start to the 2019 season, Dietrich fell apart after May and found himself as little more than a bench bat who had fewer singles (18) than he did hit-by-pitches (25).

Still, Dietrich has ridiculous power from the left-side and finished third on the team in home runs despite over 300 fewer plate appearances (306) than the team leader, Eugenio Suárez (662). Dietz hit 19 homers and put up a .790 OPS.

The likely recovery of Suárez, thanks to the delayed start to the 2020 season, may put Dietrich’s chances in jeopardy. Josh VanMeter had outplayed Dietrich during Cactus League play, and despite having minor-league options remaining, deserves a spot on the club over the former Miami Marlin.

That said, if a few additional spots exist, Derek Dietrich should be considered. It was obvious that Dietrich’s attempt to play through injury last season was partly to blame for his poor performance down the stretch. Dietz brings fun to the clubhouse and is the ultimate team player, something that can’t be understated and may be very necessary in a condensed season.