Positional versatility will be key to Spencer Steer's development with the Reds

Spencer Steer was promoted to the major leagues at the beginning of September, and the rookie has already played a key role in two big wins for the Cincinnati Reds. Steer's versatility will be key to his continued development moving forward.

Steer was brought up through the Minnesota Twins farm system primarily as a third baseman, though the former third-round pick also saw time at second base. Since joining the Reds organization, Steer has played every infield position except catcher and also saw time in the outfield.

With the number of talented infielders looking to make their mark on the organization, continuing to play multiple positions will be the best way possible for Steer to maintain a spot in the everyday lineup.

Versatility will be key to Spencer Steer's development with the Reds.

Since arriving to Cincinnati on September 1st, Spencer Steer has logged at least three starts at first, second, and third base. The rookie was supposed to handle shortstop duties during a game last month as well, but an eye infection sidelined Steer for a couple of games.

In his limited action, Steer has shown a good approach at the plate. While he's only hitting .207 since making his way to the Queen City, Steer does not have that same aggressive approach that fans have seen from Aristides Aquino and Jose Barrero.

Steer has a smooth, level swing, and if the minor league numbers are any indication, the 24-year-old is likely to keep his strikeout-rate below 20.0%. The power is also there for Steer after posting a .483 slugging percentage in his three minor league seasons.

The difficulty for Spencer Steer may be finding a regular spot in the Cincinnati Reds lineup moving forward. When healthy, one would assume that Kyle Farmer, Joey Votto, and Jonathan India have three of the four infield spots on lockdown.

Jose Barrero has struggled in 2022, but will certainly be given the opportunity in spring training to win the starting shortstop job. Matt McLain will likely be in the mix as well. While Elly De La Cruz is unlikely to break camp with the big league club next season, many throughout the organization feel that he is the shortstop of the future.

If Steer wants to be part of the everyday lineup heading into next season, embracing the role of a utility player is the best way to do that. The addition of the designated hitter gives David Bell another avenue to get Steer's bat into the game, but positional flexibility will be his biggest asset moving forward.