1 Reds player whose playing time is sure to decrease in 2023
It's doubtful that the Cincinnati Reds actually move on from Nick Senzel this offseason, though the former first-round pick could be a potential non-tender candidate. Senzel, according to MLB Trade Rumors, is likely to collect a paycheck of around $2.2M next season.
Senzel played in a career-high 110 games last season before landing on the IL for the final few weeks with a broken toe. It was the third time in four seasons that Senzel ended the year on the injured list.
Senzel saw a smattering of time at second and third base in 2022 and may take on a different role in 2023. No matter where he lines up next season, it's highly unlikely that Nick Senzel will be considered an everyday player.
Reds CF Nick Senzel is sure to see a decrease in his playing time next season.
The Cincinnati Reds have been waiting for some time to see Nick Senzel's production match that of the expectations that come with being a first-round pick. Unfortunately, that production has yet to materialize. For his career, Senzel is hitting .240/.303/.360 and has a career-OPS+ of just 73.
It will be very difficult for Senzel to secure an everyday role with the Reds next season. TJ Friel and Stuart Fairchild proved in limited action during the 2022 season that they can at least have an impact in a part-time role with the club.
Senzel may well transition into a part-time role himself. The former No. 2 overall pick could play several different positions in 2023, including center field as well as second and third base. But, Senzel will have competition for that role with players like Spencer Steer and Alejo Lopez trying to work their way into an everyday role.
Nick Senzel has long possessed the type of talent that most major league GMs dream of, but that talent hasn't translated to production on the diamond. Don't expect the Reds to cut Senzel loose during the offseason, but there's little doubt that his playing time will decrease in 2023.