Terry Francona's lineup tweak hints at upcoming Reds Opening Day roster decision

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona spoke about lengthening the lineup during an interview on Chatterbox Sports last week, and now it's time to put his plan into action. Santiago Espinal, arguably the best contact hitter on the Reds roster, will be in the lineup for Tuesday's matchup against the Los Angeles Angels, but not where you think.

Reds fans are bound to do a double-take when they see Espinal — a career infielder — in the starting lineup playing right field. This is Espinal's second start in the outfield this spring. Blake Dunn, who's battling for the final spot on the Reds Opening Day roster, will get the start in center field, and he'll be flanked on one side by his biggest competition; Jacob Hurtubise.

Terry Francona's lineup tweak hints at upcoming Reds Opening Day roster decision

Espinal was added to the Reds roster about this time last year. Cincinnati had just learned of Matt McLain's shoulder surgery and Noelvi Marte's PED suspension, and the Reds were in dire need of some additional infield depth. Espinal played a pivotal role for the Reds last season, seeing time at five different positions, including left and right field.

Giving Espinal a shot in right field could signal a number of things. First, this could be good news for Hurtubise. The West Point graduate is locked a difficult roster battle with Dunn, but if Espinal is seen as plausible right-handed platoon option in the outfield, it could help Hurtubise's case to be part of the Reds Opening Day roster.

Furthermore, this is yet another sign that Spencer Steer is unlikely to be ready to go for Opening Day. After receiving a cortisone shot in his right shoulder earlier this spring, Steer has yet to return to the Reds lineup. While his absence isn't seen as a long-term issue, giving Espinal reps in the outfield could signal that Steer won't be back in time for Cincinnati's first game of the season next week.

Of the 13 position player spots on Cincinnati's Opening Day roster,12 are spoken for. Espinal's audition in the outfield could have ramifications for some of the upcoming roster decisions. Reds fans will be keeping their eye on all three outfielders during today's Cactus League ballgame.

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