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

9. Nick Senzel, Reds centerfielder

What a fall from grace, huh? Nick Senzel has gone from the No. 2 overall pick in the 2016 MLB Draft, to the Reds top prospect, and now, hitting ninth in his fourth big league season. Provided he's heathy, will likely see Senzel bringing up the rear to begin next season.

But that's not necessarily a bad thing. A player with the plate discipline and speed of Senzel could be a perfect compliment to Cincinnati's leadoff hitter, Jonathan India. Without the pitcher's spot in the lineup, the Reds can put a player with good ball skills in the No. 9 hole to help set the table for India, Winker, and Stephenson.

Senzel's struggles have been well-documented. The former University of Tennessee star was moved to the outfield prior to the 2019 season, and while he's adapted relatively well to playing center field, his inability to stay healthy has taken a toll on Senzel's effectiveness as a major leaguer.

The Reds, however, do not really have a better option to play center field. Shogo Akiyama is a possibility, as is TJ Friedl, but neither one of those two players have an outstanding resume. I could, however, see one or both sharing time in center field with Senzel. Platooning Senzel with the left-handed bats of Akiyama and Friedl could help keep Senzel healthy.

On days when he's removed from the outfield, the opportunity exists for Senzel to man a spot on the infield dirt. The Cincinnati Reds could use Nick Senzel in a similar way to how the Arizona Diamondbacks use Ketel Marte or the way the Los Angeles Dodgers use Chris Taylor.

So there you have it; an in-depth look at what the Cincinnati Reds lineup might look like with the addition of the designated hitter. If he's still on the roster, Aristides Aquino could fill in for Mike Moustakas when a southpaw is on the bump.