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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Spencer Steer is a shoo-in to make the Reds Opening Day roster.

Very few fans might consider Spencer Steer a prospect because he made his major league debut last season. But, the 25-year-old is still, for all intents and purposes, still a prospect and his rookie status is still intact.

Steer was acquired from the Minnesota Twins last summer. Along with Christian Encarncacion-Strand and Steve Hajjar, Steer was sent to Cincinnati in exchange for pitcher Tyler Mahle.

The Reds have made a few moves during the offseason that signal an opportunity for Steer. Cincy traded infielder Kyle Farmer to Minnesota. Farmer had playe third base over the second-half of last season after the club recalled Jose Barrero to play shortstop.

In addition to the departure of Farmer, Mike Moustakas was also cut loose this winter. By designating Moose for assignment, the Reds are essentially paying him $22M to play elsewhere in 2023. This was a signal that the club is done straddling the fence in terms of rebuilding the team, and is all-in.

Third base is wide open for the taking, and if Steer can play up to his potential, he should be the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day starter at the hot corner. Steer hit .259/.354/.479 at Triple-A last season after slashing .307/.385/.591 for Minnesota's Double-A affiliate.

If Spencer Steer struggles during spring training, the Reds could roll with Jason Vosler, Alejo Lopez, or Matt Reynolds at third base, but Steer would still likely break camp with the Reds and act as a bench bat. The University of Oregon product is a shoo-in to part of the Reds Opening Day roster.

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