Cincinnati Reds: Predicting the Opening Day batting order

Bottom of the Reds batting order

7. Tucker Barnhart (C), 8. Dee Strange-Gordon (2B), 9. Luis Castillo (P)

Remember, David Bell likes to play the percentages. So whether or not you and I think that Tyler Stephenson and Jonathan India should be in the starting lineup for the Cincinnati Reds is irrelevant. I fully expect Max Schrock to make the 26-man roster, and I think there’s a real chance that he’s in the staring lineup on Opening Day at second base.

The inclusion of Tucker Barnhart shouldn’t be a surprise. Barnhart has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches and deserves to start on April 1st versus the St. Louis Cardinals. Had Mike Shildt tabbed a lefty to be his Opening Day starter, perhaps Stephenson would have gotten the nod.

Now, here’s where Reds Country gets to grab their torches and pitchforks. Strange-Gordon in the starting lineup on Opening Day over Jonathan India? Yes! We all know how David Bell fills out the lineup card, so do not be shocked if India isn’t on the field for the opener. However, I do expect India to make his way onto the field as the game moves along, either as defensive substitution or pinch hitter.

Obviously, without the universal DH, Luis Castillo will have to hit for himself. How many at-bats Castillo gets will depend on how deep into the ball game he goes and how well the Reds offense performs. Reds fans would love to see La Piedra get three cracks at the plate, as that would signify a stellar performance from the team’s ace.

So, in review, look for David Bell to run out, Jesse Winker, Nick Castellanos, Joey Votto, Eugenio Suarez, Mike Moustakas, Nick Senzel, Tucker Barnhart, and Max Schrock on Opening Day. Whatcha think Reds fans?