Cincinnati Reds: These players will get the final four spots on the roster

4. Alex Blandino brings the Reds defensive depth

This last spot could go any number of ways. Do the Reds want to keep Rule 5 draft pick Mark Payton in their organization? If so, he must remain on the active roster throughout the season. Do the Reds keep 15 or 16 position players? In the end, I think Alex Blandino will get the nod, as he provides depth at the team’s thinnest position; shortstop.

Yes, we’ve heard all throughout summer camp how David Bell has confidence in Kyle Farmer to play shortstop. While I believe that’s true, inserting Farmer as the team’s primary backup at shortstop removes him from taking over at second base, third base or behind the plate. Keeping Blandino on the roster give Bell options; especially in the early-going.

Don’t forget, after the first two weeks of the season, the rosters are reduced to just 28 players and then two weeks later we’re down to 26. I find it hard to believe that Cincinnati will bring on more than two players who don’t currently occupy a spot on the 40-man roster. If Nate Jones and Matt Davidson make the cut, two corresponding moves must happen as well.

Obviously, Mark Payton would be offered back to the Oakland Athletics, and prevailing wisdom would suggest that Scott Schebler will not be part of the 40-man roster by Opening Day. Any more additions to the 40-man roster, whether it’s David Carpenter, Sal Romano or Christian Colón, would require a player to be removed from the 40-man roster.

The Cincinnati Reds begin play on Friday at Great American Ball Park when the Detroit Tigers come to town. This year’s Opening Day will be unlike any we’ve ever seen before. A 60-game sprint for the postseason begin on July 24th. Go Reds!