Way-too-early Cincinnati Reds 2023 Opening Day roster predictions

Cincinnati Reds 2023 Opening Day bench (4)

Nick Senzel (IF/OF), TJ Hopkins (OF), Alejo Lopez (IF) , Austin Romine (C)

Okay, this is where things begin to ge interesting when it comes to the Cincinnati Reds roster. The first thing you might notice is that Mike Moustakas' name is nowhere to be found. The Reds, expensive as it may be, should bid farewell to one of the worst free agent signings in the history of their organization. That move will cost the Reds $22M, but open up a roster spot.

Nick Senzel can no longer be counted on to be the Reds starting centerfielder. In fact, he should be moved off the outfield grass all together. Despite playing in a career-high 110 games in 2022, Senzel still finished the season on the IL. As a former first-round pick with minor league options and team control through the 2025 season, it's hard to see the Reds parting with Senzel this winter.

When it comes to a utility infielder, the Reds won't have many better choices than Alejo Lopez. Don't be shocked if Matt Reynolds makes a play to remain on next year's roster as well, but Lopez's bat and ability to hit from both sides of the plate cannot be ignored.

TJ Hopkins is a player that many fans throughout Reds Country have probably never heard of. That said, the former ninth-round draft pick will likely be added to the 40-man roster this offseason and could find his way onto the Opening Day roster as a reserve.

Finally, the Cincinnati Reds need to find a savvy, experienced catcher to backup Tyler Stephenson in 2023. Tucker Barnhart will be a free agent, and after a down-year with the Detroit Tigers, the Reds may be able to ink the veteran backstop to a one or two-year deal. For now, let's assume they stick with Austin Romine.