Projecting the Cincinnati Reds 2023 Opening Day roster 3.0

Projecting the Cincinnati Reds 2023 Opening Day roster: Starting lineup (9)

Joey Votto, Jonathan India, Jose Barrero, Spencer Steer, Wil Myers, Jake Fraley, Will Benson, Tyler Stephenson, TJ Friedl

This feels like David Bell's starting lineup for the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The one name that really stands out is Joey Votto. It looked like forgone conclusion that the six-time All-Star would begin the season on the IL, but over the last week, Votto has played in Cactus League games and should be on the field at first base.

Jonathan India will be hitting atop the Reds batting order, and fellow third-year starter Tyler Stephenson will be splitting time at catcher, first base, and DH this season. When he's not in right field, look for Wil Myers to be Cincinnati's designated hitter.

Jake Fraley will be in the Reds lineup anytime a right-handed pitcher is on the mound. With Nick Senzel not yet ready to start his 2023 campaign, Will Benson will be the team's starting centerfielder. TJ Friedl will get plenty of at-bats this season as well after finishing off a very nice rookie campaign in 2022.

Jose Barrero has done enough to the Reds Opening Day shortstop, but he'll have to hit to stay up with the big club. Finally, Spencer Steer's defense has me second guessing his inclusion on the roster, but the former Minnesota Twins farmhand provides too much at the plate to relegate him to the minor leagues at the start of the season.