Which player could be cut to allow Matt Reynolds onto the Reds Opening Day roster?

Matt Reynolds has now appeared in three Cactus League games for the Cincinnati Reds. He's had three at-bats and has recorded three base knocks. That's the definition of being efficient.

After being designated for assignment during the offseason, Reynolds was signed to a minor-league contract with an invite to spring training. However, Reynolds missed a good portion of of spring training with a quad injury.

If Reynolds is healthy, there's certainly a path for him to be part of the Reds Opening Day roster. As is the case with Hunter Strickland, it never hurts to have the manager on your side. It would appear as though Bell has favored Reynolds in the past.

How Matt Reynolds could sneak onto the Reds Opening Day roster.

It's also not as if Matt Reynolds can be put in the same category as the anchor that is Hunter Strickland. Reynolds performed well when called upon in 2022 (.246/.320/.338), and his defensive versatility could be very valuable for the Cincinnati Reds this season.

With the Reds carrying three catchers, the team will need players who can play multiple positions. Outside of Spencer Steer and the likely addition of Chad Pinder, the Reds don't have too many players who fit that mold.

The Reds seem to have acknowledged that fact and are now tinkering with the idea of getting shortstop Jose Barrero reps in center field. This is probably something the Reds should have done weeks ago.

Barrero getting time at another position likely means that Kevin Newman will be the Reds primary shortstop until Elly De La Cruz gets the call. If Cincinnati is truly serious about giving Barrero time in the outfield, don't be shocked if the Reds make the decision to option him to Triple-A and hang onto Reynolds instead.

Matt Reynolds could offset the loss of the right-handed hitting Jose Barrero and give the Cincinnati Reds more defensive flexibility. Reynolds saw time at every position except catcher while playing with the team last season. Reynolds' strikeout-rate in 2022 was also about 15 percent lower than Barrero's.

Reynolds inclusion on the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day roster will hinge mostly on his heath. The 32-year-old could supplant Chad Pinder as well, but that seems like a long-shot.