Reds: 3 players who won’t make the Opening Day roster but will contribute

Which Reds players won’t make the Opening Day roster, but still contribute in 2021?

Unfortunately, not every player who’s excelled during their time in Goodyear will find a spot on the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day roster. We’ve already seen Kyle Farmer lose his starting gig to Eugenio Suárez, though the Georgia alum will find a comfortable role as the team’s top utility player off the bench. Who’s most likely not make the 26-man roster out of camp, but still make an impact in 2021?

This happens every spring. There’s several players who ball-out during Cactus League play, but due to service time, minor league options, or roster space, a few very talented players are left off the Opening Day roster. However, it’s not uncommon for those players to continue to play well in the minors and receive a call-up to the big leagues later in the season.

Last season was a bit of an outlier, but in 2019, Nick Senzel failed to make the roster out of spring camp, but went on to have solid rookie season before he injured his shoulder in September. Phillip Ervin is a name that comes to mind as well. Ervin historically produced in spring games, but it wasn’t until he was given an increase in playing time that he finally showcased his abilities.

So which spring standouts will be left off the 26-man roster when play begins on April 1st, only to make a huge impact when they finally get their opportunity later in the season? Let’s take a look at three such players.

Cionel Pérez, Reds left-handed pitcher

Now, don’t be surprised if Cionel Pérez makes the Opening Day roster, but he does have a minor league option remaining. Heading into the offseason, Reds GM Nick Krall stressed the importance of having several bullpen arms available to move back and forth between Cincinnati and Triple-A Louisville. Pérez could be one such player.

The left-hander was acquired from the Houston Astros and has been absolutely brilliant in Cactus League play this spring. In seven games, Pérez has gone 7.1 innings, struck out eight, walked four, and posted a 1.17 ERA.

Pérez was originally brought up as a starter, but he looks to be in line for a relief role with the Reds this coming season. With so many veteran pitchers in camp, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Jesse Biddle get the call for Opening Day. Biddle is a non-roster invitee and out of options, so in order for Cincinnati to keep the southpaw in play, he must be added to the 40-man roster.

With Amir Garrett having yet to debut this spring and Sean Doolittle struggling to find his rhythm, if injury or poor performance befall either of David Bell’s left-handed relievers, you’d have to think that Cionel Pérez would be the first pitcher called up during the season.