Reds report card: Grading Spencer Steer's mighty 2023 season

Spencer Steer got his feet wet at a September call-up in 2022, but the rookie took off in 2023 with an utter dominant performance.

Steer, who came over from the Minnestota Twins at last year's trade deadline, opened this past season as the Cincinnati Reds starting third baseman on Opening Day.

Bu, after Tyler Stephenson struggled to fill in at first base for the injured Joey Votto, Steer switched positions. However, that wasn't the only time Steer emerged as a team player. The 25-year-old quickly became the Reds most versatile defender.

Reds report card: Grading Spencer Steer's mighty 2023 season

Spencer Steer led the Cincinnati Reds in several meaningful categories this past season. Steer ranked first on the team in doubles, home runs, and RBI and was among the tops on the team in slugging percentage and WAR.

Steer's versatility on the defensive side of the ball cannot be overstated. Steer played first, second, and third base while also trying his hand in both corner outfield spots. Steer's willingness to change positions enabled the Reds to call up top prospects like Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Noelvi Marte.

While Steer was increidbly versatile when it came to his defensive position on the field, the harsh reality was, he didn't really excel at any one position. According to FanGraphs, Steer was worth -5 defensive runs saved (DRS) and -16 outs above average (OAA). Yikes!

But, with a healthy roster in 2024, odds are the former third-round pick will find a home in the corner outfield and occasionally sub in for one of the infielders as the game dictates. Being that super utility player, however, did not affect Steer's performance at the dish.

Spencer Steer was arguably the best rookie on the Cincinnati Reds this past season, and the most consistent performer outside of TJ Friedl. Steer's rookie season nets him a solid A.