Overlooked Reds prospect faces steep uphill climb after receiving non-roster invite

He'll get a chance to shine.

Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati Reds | G Fiume/GettyImages

Once-promising prospect, Ivan Johnson, is set for a critical spring training with the Cincinnati Reds after receiving a non-roster invitation. The 24-year-old infielder is attempting to reestablish himself in the organization following a couple of seasons that have tested his potential and resilience.

A former fourth-round pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Johnson came to the Reds with considerable upside. Hailing from Georgia, he stood out for his switch-hitting ability, athletic defense, and a hard-nosed playing style.

For a time, Johnson seemed poised to emerge as part of Cincinnati's future infield plans. However, injuries and inconsistent production stalled his progression, leaving him on the periphery of the prospect radar.

Forgotten Reds prospect Ivan Johnson faces steep uphill climb after receiving non-roster invite

In 2023, Johnson faced significant struggles at Double-A Chattanooga, slashing just .234/.315/.374 with limited impact at the plate. These numbers marked a stark decline from earlier signs of promise, raising questions about his viability as a long-term option. Injuries also interrupted his development timeline, further compounding his difficulties.

Defensively, Johnson has shown flashes of versatility, capable of handling second base and shortstop with solid range and a good arm. But the need to refine his defensive consistency is another obstacle he'll need to address in camp. Johnson's path to the big leagues won't be easy.

For Johnson, the non-roster invite represents an opportunity to prove he can still contend for a role, whether as depth or a potential utility player. To stand out, he'll need to demonstrate progress with the bat and capitalize on defensive opportunities.

Spring training will serve as a pivotal moment for Johnson to show he still belongs in Cincinnati's long-term plans. While the odds may seem daunting, his mix of raw tools and experience could help him outperform expectations. A strong performance could earn him a spot in Triple-A Louisville, keeping his dreams alive and setting him up for a potential major league debut.

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