Cincinnati Reds: Free agent options to platoon with Joey Votto at first base

Todd Frazier, New York Mets

Is it time to bring the Toddfather home? I’m sure a lot of fans throughout Reds Country would say, yes. While Todd Frazier hasn’t made it to the Midsummer Classic since his time with the Cincinnati Reds, Frazier’s bat still has some pop. In 2019, the two-time All-Star racked up 21 homers and a .443 slugging percentage in 133 games with the New York Mets.

Frazier was dealt to the Chicago White Sox almost five years ago. In return, the Reds received  Scott Schebler, José Peraza, and Brandon Dixon. It’s safe to say that the trade didn’t work out too well for either side. None of those players mentioned is still with the Reds franchise and Frazier’s batting average dropped to .226 over those five seasons.

So why would the Reds want to bring back a player who’s bounced between four teams over the past five years without much success? Remember, we’re talking about a player to platoon with Joey Votto. Unless the universal DH returns in 2021, Votto will be the team’s starting first baseman on Opening Day. The Reds just need to find a suitable replacement to give him some days off.

Last season, we saw Cincinnati turn to Mike Moustakas on occasion, but then that leaves a hole at second base. Sure, the Reds can fill that hole with Kyle Farmer, but he may have his hands full at shortstop this next season. Frazier could be an inexpensive right-handed power bat who has plenty of familiarity playing at Great American Ball Park.