Reds surprise with two non-roster invitees added to 30-man roster

The Reds added Matt Davidson and Christian Colón to the 30-man roster.

The Cincinnati Reds finalized their 2020 Opening Day roster on Friday, selecting the contracts of Matt Davidson and Christian Colón. Both infielders were non-roster invitees who’ll bring a veteran presence to this year’s ball club.

While mildly surprising, Reds Country shouldn’t be completely shocked by the two additions to Cincinnati’s 30-man roster. Davidson has repeatedly shown his power, both in Goodyear and Great American Ball Park. Colón offers a versatile, slick-fielding veteran that David Bell can plug in all over the infield.

Davidson and Colón are the not the only non-rosters invitees to make this year’s squad. Right-handed reliever Nate Jones and southpaw Brooks Raley are expected to be key pieces in the Reds bullpen this season.

Davidson provides some pop from the right-side off the bench. It’s unlikely that Davidson would start over Eugenio Suárez at third base or veteran first baseman and six-time All-Star Joey Votto, but don’t be shocked if Davidson gets a few starts as the team’s designated hitter against a left-handed starting pitcher. Davidson could also take over at first and allow Votto to DH for a game.

Colón has much more versatility than Davidson, but his track record at the big league-level is not the best. Colón is a .256 with a career-OPS of just .640. However, Colón plays solid defense, has a great clubhouse presence and gives Cincinnati a capable backup at shortstop in the event Kyle Farmer falters.

Colón was a key member of the Kansas City Royals rally to win the 2015 World Series. His base knock in the top of the 12th inning against the New York Mets put the Royals up for good. That at-bat was Colón’s first of the World Series and second of his postseason career. Colón is 2-for-2 in the playoffs.

To make room for both Matt Davidson and Christian Colón on the Reds 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher Justin Shafer and left-hander Josh D. Smith were designated for assignment. The Reds kickoff the 2020 season tonight against the Detroit Tigers.