Reds just made a roster move that could spell the end for once-promising power bat

The Cincinnati Reds optioned Christian Encarnacion-Strand to Triple-A Louisville on Saturday in order to activate outfielder Jake Fraley from the injured list. This latest roster move could signal the Reds' future plans for the once-promising slugger.

Encarnacion-Strand has endured a disappointing season thus far, and perhaps the Reds are hoping that a return to the minors will jumpstart his bat. The former Minnesota Twins farmhand is hitting just .208/.234/.377 this season with a 60 wRC+.

Not only has Encarnacion-Strand's production at the plate been a disaster, but so has his defensive performance. The 25-year-old has ceded first base duties to Spencer Steer, and his play at third base has left a lot to the imagination. On the year, Encarnacion-Strand has been worth -2 defensive runs saved (DRS) and -2 outs above average (OAA).

Reds just made a roster move that could spell the end for Christian Encarnacion-Strand

Encarnacion-Strand was supposed to be a force in the middle of the Reds lineup, but instead has turned into a liability. While Cincinnati is still holding out hope that he'll find his swing once again, it's quite possible that the Reds may look to move on from Encarnacion-Strand at this year's trade deadline.

There'll be no shortage of demand for a big bat like Encarnacion-Strand, despite the fact he's struggling this season. He still has minor-league options remaining and hasn't even reached his arbitration window. Those could be strong selling points for teams like the Seattle Mariners and Boston Red Sox — both of whom are looking for a first base bat.

The Reds also have two young upstarts who could fill Encarnacion-Strand's shoes in the near future. Both Cam Collier and Sal Stewart, two of Cincinnati's top prospects, are readily available to play either first or third base and could be MLB ready by this time next year.

The Reds decided to ditch Encarnacion-Strand in lieu of sending Connor Joe back down to the minor leagues. Though the Reds' brass may not be actively shopping Encarnacion-Strand ahead of the July 31 deadline, if another club comes calling, you can bet your bottom dollar that he won't be off limits in trade talks.

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