Adding Brandon Drury still doesn't address Reds biggest need heading into 2022
The Cincinnati Reds have reportedly come to terms with former New York Mets utility player Brandon Drury. This would be the fourth signing over the span of four days, with all additions being position players.
The Reds would be Drury's fifth team over the course of his seven-year career. He spent the first-half of his 2021 season in the Mets minor league system, where he hit .257/.318/.449 with nine home runs in 56 games. At the major league level, Drury showed promise, slashing .274/.304/.476 in 51 games with four home runs and a wRC+ of 114.
How does Brandon Drury fit on the Reds roster?
Over the past week, the Reds have seemingly signed players that would be played in accordance to their respective splits. Colin Moran, and Donovan Solano won't see everyday playing time, but will likely be played situationally and according to favorable pitching matchups. Brandon Drury, however, hits both right and left-handed pitchers rather evenly.
Drury can be classified as a utility player. The 29-year-old can play second base, third base, and anywhere in the outfield. While Joey Votto and Jonathan India are locked into their positions, the left side of the infield will see plenty of variation this season.
Mike Moustakas, Colin Moran, Donovan Solano, Max Schrock, and Alejo Lopez are all fighting for a spot in the Reds infield, while the outfield has some holes. If Drury somehow finds his spot on the Cincinnati roster, it'll unquestionably be in right field.
The Reds will have plenty of players to choose from when finalizing their 26-man roster, but the main concern for many fans is the pitching, specifically the bullpen. The Reds ranked 27th in bullpen ERA last season, but have failed to make any serious improvements thus far.
Relievers are relatively cheap in this current market, but as Opening Day approaches, the Cincinnati Reds have made little-to-no additions that are likely to make an impact.
In all likelihood, Drury's will be another minor-league contract with an invite to play in spring training. Free agents Tommy Pham and Michael Conforto are still on the market, but the Reds don't appear to be serious buyers this offseason.