Reds make baffling roster move by demoting power bat and signing utility backup

The Cincinnati Reds made a surprising announcement ahead of their upcoming series against the Chicago Cubs. Everyone knew that Hunter Greene was due to return from the injured list, but not many Reds fans had the addition o Garrett Hampson on their bingo card. The Reds signed the veteran utility player to a major-league deal and optioned Rece Hinds to Triple-A Louisville.

Hampson was recently released by the Arizona Diamondbacks after appearing in 18 games this season. He hit just .167/.359/.167 without a single extra-base hit on the year. Hampson has the ability to play multiple positions, including shortstop, second base, and center field.

With the Reds lacking any semblence of power in the lineup, it's rather puzzling that they'd send Hinds back down to the minor leagues, even if his role has been that of a bench bat since rejoining the big league club. In order to make room on the 40-man roster, Carson Spiers was moved to the 60-day IL.

Reds sign Garrett Hampson, option Rece Hinds to minor leagues

According Reds manager Terry Francona, Hampson's addition to the roster provides more positional versatility. Francona has been somewhat handcuffed of late with Jeimer Candelario, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Noelvi Marte, and Jake Fraley all on the injured list. The Reds also lost one of their most versatile fielders earlier this season after Tyler Callihan crashed into a wall during the team's series in Atlanta and fractured his arm.

While Hampson may provide defensive versatility, the Reds' offense just got worse. Losing Hinds removes an unquestioned power-bat from Cincinnati's lineup. While Hinds is oftentimes feast or famine, Hampson's career numbers suggest there won't be much feasting when he steps into the batters' box. Hampson posted a .239/.302/.358 slash line with a 69 wRC+ during his career. Even Nick Senzel is laughing at those numbers.

At least Greene is back on the bump. The Reds' ace exited a game earlier this month with a groin injury, but after a two-week absence, he's back on the hill for the Reds' series opener against the Cubs. The Reds just lost a brutal series to the hapless Pittsburgh Pirates and will turn to Greene to help right the ship.

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