Analyzing Spencer Steer's bid for National League Rookie of the Year

Spencer Steer has been a staple in the Cincinnati Reds lineup as a rookie and will likely remain a key piece in throughout the entire 2023 season. Steer was traded to Cincinnati as a part of the deal that sent former pitcher Tyler Mahle to the Minnesota Twins in 2022.

Steer has been better than expected. Despite a brief absence from the lineup due to a mild injury, Steer's 2023 rookie campaign has gotten off to a fast start, where he finds himself ranked among the best NL rookies in several different categories.

Steer is currently tied for the NL rookie lead in doubles, while also being ranked in the top 10 in batting average, home runs, hits, and walks.

Analyzing Spencer Steer's bid for NL Rookie of the Year.

The disrespect shown to Spencer Steer has been borderline outrageous this year. Steer has been one of the Cincinnati Reds most consistent and improving run producers, and is currently leading them in home runs.

With former NL MVP Joey Votto's extended stay on the Injured List following shoulder and biceps surgery, Steer will be locked in at first base for the foreseeable future. Even with the return of Votto, the Reds will find a spot for Steer on a regular basis. The 25-year-old has the flexibility to play all over the diamond.

Steer may not be among the frontrunners for the National League Rookie of the Year Award, as Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder James Outman are gaining more publicity. But, Steer deserves to be among the top rookies in the NL.

Two seasons ago, Steer's infield mate Jonathan India won the NL Rookie of the Year Award after a stellar first season in the Queen City. India faced an uphill battle as well, often being overlooked for other potential options. However, the Reds second baseman kept putting in the work and emerged as a nearly unanimous winner for the honor.

Spencer Steer will look to do the same this year. The infielder is far from a finished product, but expect Steer to continue to improve and put his name in the running for the NL Rookie of the Year Award.