Hamstring injury brings an abrupt end to TJ Friedl's solid rookie season with the Reds

TJ Friedl's rookie season with the Cincinnati Reds did no end as he had hoped, but the outfielder would seem to have played his way onto the team's Opening Day roster next season.

Friedl, attempting to steal third base, slid into the bag and came up grabbing at back of his right leg. The Reds outfielder will receive an MRI on Tuesday, but for all intents and purposes, his rookie season has come to a close.

And what a rookie campaign it was for the Pennsylvania native. Friedl, who went undrafted due to a technicality, has been part of the Cincinnati Reds organization since 2016. Friedl had a cup of coffee at the major league level last season, but appeared in 72 games for the Redlegs this season.

Reds OF TJ Friedl saw his rookie season come to an abrupt end.

TJ Friedl proved himself this season by slashing .240/.314/.436 with eight home runs and 25 RBIs. The 26-year-old also stole seven bases. Friedl has positioned himself well to possibly be part of the starting outfield on next year's Reds team.

Friedl saw time at all three outfield spots, but his lack of arm strength probably eliminates him from playing right field on a consistent basis. Friedl does, however, have the speed to play up the middle.

Center field has belonged to Nick Senzel for the better part of four seasons, except for the fact that the former first-round pick has struggled to stay healthy. Senzel's role with the ball club may be changing heading into next season, and the possibility even exists for the University of Tennessee alum to be non-tendered this offseason.

It wasn't the way TJ Friedl wanted to end his rookie season, but so long as there's no major damage to the outfielder's right hamstring, he should be back and ready for Year 2 in the big leagues once spring training rolls around next February.