The Cincinnati Reds are set as far as left-handed bats are concerned. Between Joey Votto, Jesse Winker, Mike Moustakas, and Tyler Naquin, David Bell would appear to have four left-handed hitters set to deploy in his everyday lineup.
But if Nick Castellanos, who's still a free agent, is not retained once the lockout if lifted, the Reds may need to add a right-handed bat to their lineup. Kyle Farmer and Jose Barrero (both right-handed hitters) figure to be part of the everyday lineup, as will Jonthan India, Tyler Stephenson and Eugenio Suárez. Nick Senzel could be part of the equation as well, but he's less than reliable.
So it stands to reason that Cincinnati should look to add a right-handed bat to the lineup. With the infield accounted for, Stephenson behind the plate, and the combination of Winker and Naquin in the outfield, there's only one conceivable spot left to add a right-handed bat. Are there any right-handed hitting outfielders available in free agency who would make sense for the Cincinnati Reds?
1. The Cincinnati Reds could sign Kevin Pillar.
Kevin Pillar isn't going to an electric signing, but it's hard to see the Cincinnati Reds doling out multi-year contracts once the MLB lockout is lifted. Pillar, however, could likely be had for a one-year deal after signing multiple one-year pacts over the last few years.
Pillar was a longtime member of the Toronto Blue Jays, but was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 2019. After a one-year tenure in the Bay Area, Pillar signed a deal with the Boston Red Sox ahead of the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. Pillar was traded that season to the Colorado Rockies. Last year, Pillar played 124 games for the New York Mets.
A career slash line of .260/.297/.409 isn't very inspiring, but Kevin Pillar does bring an above-average glove to the table. For his career, Pillar has 52 defensive runs saved and can play all over the outfield, though he has lost a step over the last few seasons.
Pillar's 2021 season was halted after taking a fastball off the face courtesy of Jacob Webb. Pillar missed two weeks with multiple nasal fractures, but returned to the diamond to finish out the season. Kevin Pillar would be considered a low-cost option, and his wRC+ of 104 versus left-handed pitching might see the Cincinnati Reds make an offer.