3 Reds infield prospects most likely to be traded for outfield help

3. Reds IF Spencer Steer could be on the chopping block.

Trading Spencer Steer would seem to be less likely than dealing Matt McLain, simply because the former Minnesota Twins prospect is more of a second baseman than a shortstop. But Steer has played multiple positions throughout his time in the Reds organization.

Cincinnati acquired Steer last summer as part of the trade that sent Tyler Mahle to Minnesota. In addition, the Reds also received pitcher Steve Hajjar and infielder Christian Encarnacion-Strand.

Whether or not the Reds are ready to commit to Steer over the long haul may have less to do with his abilities and more to do with how the rest of farm system is shaping up. Cincinnati appears ready to shift Noelvi Marte from shortstop to third base, and the aforementioned Encarnacion-Strand can play both first and third base.

The advantage of trading Steer is that a team who's looking for an immediate, major league-ready upgrade could see the 25-year-old as a regular at either second or third base in 2023. Steer is also still considered a rookie despite playing 28 games with the Reds last season.

Spencer Steer is well regarded as being an extremely disciplined hitter, but his role may be best suited as that of a utility player. If another team inquires as to Steer's availability, Cincinnati should definitely entertain the idea if it brings back a starting-caliber outfield prospect.