Ranking the 5 best hitting shortstops in Cincinnati Reds history

The Cincinnati Reds have a rich history of some of the best shortstops to ever play the game of baseball.

The Reds have seen some incredible defensive wizards field the position, but also some offensive-minded monsters. Historically, the shortstop position is viewed as defense first, while hitting is oftentimes viewed as an afterthought. Baseball, however, has gone away from that style of thinking.

Recently, bat-first shortstops have taken over. Players like Carlos Correa, Trea Turner, and Bo Bichette are some of the best in the game. Let's look at the five best hitting shortstops to ever wear a Cincinnati Reds uniform.

5. Best hitting shortstops in Reds history: Felipe Lopez (2003-2006)

Felipe Lopez joined the Reds at the turn of the 21st century, and spent just over three seasons in Cincinnati. Lopez slugged 41 home runs in under 400 at-bats in a Reds uniform, including a 23-home run season in 2005.

That 2005 season has withstood the test of time throughout Reds history as Lopez's 23 home runs that year are the most in a single season by a switch-hitter.

Lopez lacks in the counting statistics, behind a couple Reds that didn't make this list in areas like hits, home runs, and RBIs. But Lopez was able to compete with other Cincinnati greats, but in half the games and half the at-bats. Had Lopez spent more than three-plus seasons in the Queen City, his placement on the list would be much higher.

Felipe Lopez is still the best slugging switch-hitter the Reds may have ever seen. Chances are good, however, that Elly De La Cruz may quickly surpass many of the achievements Lopez did as a switch-hitting infielder.