The Reds best option to take over for Nick Castellanos in right field may already be on the team

In a move that no one was surprised to see coming, Nick Castellanos declined his player option making him a free agent.

The Cincinnati Reds and their fans must now ask themselves, who will be starting in right field next season?

While several free agents are available this winter, Castellanos' replacement may already be on the Reds roster.

Tyler Naquin could be the Reds right fielder in 2022.

Tyler Naquin, who signed a minor-league deal with Cincinnati before spring training last season, could step into the position now vacated by Castellanos.

Other than having his best offensive season in the big leagues, Naquin's defensive versatility was on full display as he saw time at all three outfield spots in 2021.

Though sidelined by a couple injuries throughout the 2021 season, Tyler Naquin managed to play in 127 games; the most of his career.

Naquin recorded career-highs in home runs (19) and RBIs (70) last season while slashing .270/.333/.477.

Tyler Naquin also happens to be a rather inexpensive option to replace Nick Castellanos in right field as the 30-year-old is estimated to take home $3.6M per MLB Trade Rumors.

Naquin will enter free agency after the 2022 season, and depending on how the left-handed slugger produces next season, he could be in the Queen City for a little longer.

With Nick Senzel ending his season on the IL for the second time in three years, the possibility exists for Tyler Naquin to be the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day starter in center field.

With Naquin's experience up the middle, you have to assume he's a candidate to be Cincinnati's centerfielder on March 31st.

Jose Barrero is another option in center field should the Reds brass decide to start Kyle Farmer at shortstop next season.

With the Reds lack of spending this offseason, and Tyler Naquin being a known commodity, he'll likely have the inside track to be Cincinnati's starting right fielder in 2022.