Cincinnati Reds: 3 key players who’ve underperformed thus far in 2021

2. Nick Senzel, Reds outfielder

Nick Senzel has not missed a game this season; so there’s that. But, while health has been the biggest concern during the early part of Senzel’s career, the former first-round pick has hit a snag and he’s currently being platooned with the red-hot Tyler Naquin. Senzel needs to start making contact if he wants to be the team’s everyday centerfielder.

I’m a firm believer that Nick Senzel will figure it out, but the early results haven’t been very promising. While the 25-year-old has shown flashes so far this season, Senzel has been unable to string together consistent at-bats.

Senzel’s current OPS of .526 is lower than any Cincinnati Reds player who has more than 10 at-bats. When Senzel is on base, given his speed and base running ability, he oftentimes scores. However, a .283 on-base percentage is less than ideal.

Nick Senzel has yet to go deep this season. While the former No. 2 overall pick isn’t known as a slugger, I had expected the third-year pro to have at least a couple long balls by now and hopefully finish the season with 20-plus.

It feels as though Senzel is due, but he’s yet to break out in big way this season. He is third on the team in runs scored. In fact, Senzel has scored nearly 77% of the time that he’s reached base. The key for Senzel will be letting the game come to him and not pressing. The most natural thing to do when you’re struggling is to try harder, but Senzel is talented enough that the hits will come.