Shorthanded Reds outfield does not need recently DFA'd Oscar Mercado

Oscar Mercado was recently designated for assignment by the Cleveland Guardians. Despite being shorthanded, the Cincinnati Reds should steer clear of adding Mercado to their roster.

Mercado caught the eye of Major League Baseball just a few short years ago. In 2019, the outfielder showed a good defensive acumen and was hitting .269/.318/.443 for Cleveland. Mercado finished eighth in the race for AL Rookie of the Year honors which Houston Astros' DH Yordan Alvarez won running away.

Unfortunately, Mercado did not enjoy similar success the following season. In just 36 games, Mercado hit .128/.174/.174 with just one home run and six RBIs. Mercado split time between the big leagues and Triple-A last season, but was unable to raise his OPS above .700. This year featured more of the same, and Cleveland finally decided to part ways with the outfielder.

The Reds short steer clear of adding Oscar Mercado.

Oscar Mercado represents the type of player that the Cincinnati Reds typically target. The 27-year-old was pre-arbitration eligible this season and will not become a free agent until after the 2025 season. With the Reds so short-handed on outfielders, shouldn't the front office at least consider adding Mercado?

I don't think that's such a good idea. While the Reds love reclamation projects, this isn't one they should entertain. Having just added Stuart Fairchild back to the roster and optioned TJ Friedl to Triple-A Louisville, the Reds have enough players to fill out the outfield if another injury arises.

While the Reds current outfield features just Nick Senzel, Albert Almora Jr., and Tommy Pham, Max Schrock can play the outfield if needed, and it sounds as if the injured Tyler Naquin may soon begin a rehab assignment.

The Cincinnati Reds may be desperate to add any sort talent to the roster given that the team is now 21 games below .500, but there's no need to look outside the organization unless the front office is looking at trading for potential prospects.