2 Reds prospects who have no shot to make the Opening Day roster and 1 who's a shoo-in

Detailed view of the jersey of Cincinnati Reds infielder Noelvi Marte
Detailed view of the jersey of Cincinnati Reds infielder Noelvi Marte / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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Noelvi Marte has no shot to make the Reds Opening Day roster.

Noelvi Marte, much like Connor Phillips, was part of the Seattle Mariners organization at this time last year. Marte was part of midseason deal with the M's that sent Luis Castillo to Seattle. In return, the Redlegs received Marte, shortstop Edwin Arroyo, and pair of pitching prospects.

Marte was the big "get" of that trade, though Arroyo is a top talent as well. Marte, however, is closer to the big leagues. But the infielder is still a ways away from making his major league debut and has no shot of being part of the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day roster.

Marte, who's just 21 years old, has a good eye at the dish and is rather patient hitter. The Reds, however, are hoping that Marte can make the switch from shortstop to third base. That transition alone will be enough to keep Marte in the minors for most of, if not all, of the 2023 season.

Marte has played shortstop throughout all his professional career, but during the Arizona Fall League he switched to the hot corner. Cincinnati already has Jose Barrero, Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and the aforementioned Arroyo battling to become the Reds next shortstop.

Noelvi Marte has a ton of talent. He posted a respectable 11.3% walk-rate and 20.6% strikeout-rate in 2023. The Reds will be hoping that Marte is able to maintain those numbers and up his slugging percentage just a little bit. According to FanGraphs, Marte posted a wRC+ of 131 last season. There's a lot to like, but the fanbase will need to be patient.