Reds spring training: 3 prospects who may actually make the active roster

2. Ryan Hendrix, Reds right-handed pitcher

Were it not for the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, we likely would have seen Ryan Hendrix debut last season. Unfortunately, the lack of a minor league season left the right-hander at Prasco Park all summer. However, Hendrix has the stuff to make an impact out of the Cincinnati Reds bullpen.

With so many unknowns among the crop of relief pitchers, outside of Amir Garrett, Lucas Sims, Sean Doolittle, and Noé Ramirez, it’s anyone’s guess as to who’ll be emerging from the Reds bullpen on any given night. GM Nick Krall has made several additions, but none of those players are guaranteed a spot among the relief corps.

Hendrix is a power pitcher with a plus, plus-fastball and a devastating slider. A two-pitch combo like that is sure to turn heads during Reds spring training. Think Robert Stephenson, butt with better control. Stephenson always had a great mix of stuff, but his exceedingly high walk-rate (12.1% according to FanGraphs), never allowed him to reach his potential.

The absence of many assured spots in the Cincinnati bullpen gives Ryan Hendrix a tremendous opportunity to impress the coaching staff during spring training. It’ll be a tight competition, and may come down to minor-league options. Since Hendrix has all three options remaining, he may get passed over. However, if he shows out during camp, David Bell may be hard-pressed to keep him off the active roster.

3. Jonathan India, Reds infielder

Is it just me, or have fans completely forgotten about former first-round pick Jonathan India? The University of Florida alum was the fifth-overall choice during the 2018 MLB Draft. Some have bemoaned India’s progress during his time in the minors, but his numbers have improved slightly at every level he’s played. After spending all last season at the alternate site, perhaps it’s his time to shine.

I think Nick Senzel’s lack of success at the big leagues have caused some fans throughout Reds Country to question India’s potential. Given the commonalities between the two, it’s easy to see how some would make that comparison.

Both Nick Senzel and Jonathan India were high draft picks who played in the SEC. Both primary played third base in college and were drafted as advanced bats, thought to be instant contributors. Senzel tore up the minor leagues, posting an .895 OPS through three-plus seasons. However, India’s numbers are a bit more pedestrian, slashing .254/.369/.410 in two seasons.

That said, one of the biggest criticisms I’ve heard recently from Reds fans is the team’s lack of players who can get on base. Jonathan India can certainly do that. The 24-year-old shows an advanced approach at the plate, and his .414 OBP and 15.2% walk-rate while playing at Double-A Chattanooga speak to India’s patience at the dish.

The Cincinnati Reds are in need of starting shortstop. Throughout his minor league career, India’s played just nine games at shortstop, but he certainly has the ability to field the position. Furthermore, if David Bell decided to roll with Kyle Farmer at short, India can play all over the infield, subbing in for Mike Moustakas and Eugenio Suárez as needed.

With Reds spring training upon us, fans are eager to see what this year’s team will look like. While it’s always an uphill battle for prospects to make the team out of camp, these three players certainly possess the ability to do so.