Gavin Lux has high praise for teammate whose adjustment helped save Reds season

Cincinnati Reds utility man Gavin Lux knows a little something about learning to play different positions on the fly. Lux was a top prospect at shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers, later transitioning to bouncing around the infield, playing second and third base a good deal. These days, when he's not at DH, you can typically find Lux out in left field.

So when he speaks on the transition from the infield to the outfield, and how difficult it his, one would be wise to listen. He speaks from experience. That's why ears perked up when he lavished praise on teammate Noevi Marte's transition from third base to right field.

But Lux didn't stop at simply complimenting Marte's seamless transition. Instead, he went further, making a bold prediction in the process. Lux also spoke about the quality of Marte's at-bats and how he oozes talent, saying, "This might not be a bold prediction, but I think Noelvi's going to be an All-Star next year."

Gavin Lux believes Reds third baseman-turned-right fielder will be an All-Star next season

Wow. He's not wrong, either. Marte has made some head turning plays in right field following some defensive struggles at the hot corner. Forced off the position when Cincinnati acquired defensive whiz Ke'Bryan Hayes from the division rival Pittsburgh Pirates, Marte taking to the position might have saved the Reds' season.

Keeping his bat, which, while still developing, is potent, in the lineup while vastly improving the defense has made the Reds a more well-rounded team. One that now has the chance to cut down the mighty Dodgers. If they can pull it off, Lux can enjoy the sweet taste of revenge.

As Lux pointed out, Marte is still just 23 years old, and if he can continue to hit like he did in August when he posted a .297/.330/.535 line, it's easy to see the All-Star potential in his future.

Meanwhile, Marte moving to right field has set the Reds up for a bright future. By virtue of the move, top prospect Sal Stewart has been given the opportunity to come up and impress. It's not hard to get goosebumps imagining a lineup featuring Marte and Stewart reaching their full potential. Even better if Elly De La Cruz can put it together and prove that he's more than just an average player with a lot of hype, then watch out.

For now, the Reds have business to attend to in Los Angeles, but take Lux's words to heart. He played with a lot of All-Stars during his time in LA, so he certainly knows what one looks like when he sees it.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors