What's the ideal Cincinnati Reds lineup with the likely addition of the universal DH?

2. Jesse Winker, Reds left fielder

Batting second will be Cincinnati Reds' outfielder Jesse Winker. Unfortunately, Da Wink ended his All-Star campaign on the IL with an intercostal strain. Had Winker been healthy down the stretch, I really think the Reds would have made a better push for that final playoff spot in the National League.

While some might argue that Winker would be a great candidate to be the team's designated hitter in 2022, Cincinnati doesn't really have a player who's better suited to play left field. No, Winker will never win a Gold Glove, but he plays good enough defense to be on the field every day.

Winker broke out in big way last season. After showcasing his ability to have success versus left-handed pitching in 2020, Winker dominated both right-handers and left-handers in 2021. Da Wink hit .305/.394/.556 last season and posted a career-high 24 round trippers.

With the likely departure of slugger Nick Castellanos, Jesse Winker will have a bigger role to fill in 2022. The Reds will be counting on Winker to stay healthy and provide some pop behind the table-setter, Jonathan India.

Winker is entering his second year of arbitration, and the fanbase is hopeful that he and the team are able to work out a long-term agreement prior to the start of the 2022 season. Winker has the potential to be the face of the franchise once Joey Votto rides off into the sunset.