
Aristides Aquino could play a pivotal role as the Reds’ season unfolds.
The emergence of centerfielder Tyler Naquin has solved several issues for the Cincinnati Reds this season. First, it’s provided another slugging left-handed bat in the lineup to complement fellow lefties Joey Votto and Jesse Winker. Secondly, it allows manager David Bell to deploy the right-handed-hitting Aristides Aquino against left-handed pitchers.
Over the past three seasons, it’s become painfully obvious that, at best, Aquino is a platoon player, and there’s certainly value to be had inserting his powerful bat in the lineup against favorable matchups.
One year ago today, Aristides Aquino put on an absolute show. ?? #RedsVault pic.twitter.com/8AMMRYRFnB
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 10, 2020
After missing two months following a broken bone in his hand, Aquino is finally healthy. This Milwaukee series is the perfect opportunity for him to make a significant contribution as the Brewers will throw left-handed starters at the Cincinnati lineup in the first two games of the three-game set.
In 76 career at-bats facing lefties, The Punisher has left the yard six times, and his OBP of .326 outpaces his career mark of .311. When you consider the left-handed-hitting Tyler Naquin slashes .224/.291/.372 versus southpaws, a platoon of Aristides Aquino and Tyler Naquin in centerfield is a no-brainer.
Prediction
For the first time since 2014, the Cincinnati Reds are above the .500 mark in June. However, this series will go a long way in determining just how long the Redlegs keep their head above water.
Milwaukee has certainly been impressive over the last month, but there’s reason to believe they’re not as good as their record indicates. A run differential of +10 through 65 games reeks of a club who should be hovering around the .500 mark. Look for Milwaukee to fall closer to that standard as the Redlegs capture two of three before heading to San Diego for a four-game set.