Infield Outlook

The Reds have several young future stars in the outfield, but while the infield isn't quite as stacked there are a few names to look for. I would be wasting my time if I were to sit here a go over what Brandon Phillips has already accomplished in his young career; suffice it to say 30 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and gold glove quality defense isn't too much to expect from this exciting young player. When Alex Gonzalez isn't what most would call young (30), he certainly has six to seven peak years ahead of him. His defense speaks for its self (a career fielding percentage of .970) and his offense isn't nearly as bad as some expected. A combination of good protection, consistent at bats, and Great American Ball Park will equal career highs for Gonzalez in years to come. Reds fans undoubtedly enjoy their glimpse of Joey Votto at the end of the 2007 season. The left-handed slugger showed why fans and reporters had been clamoring for his call up since the All-Star break. While Votto's approach at the plate is quite different than that of Josh Hamilton the results are similar. Both have very good power to all fields (Hamilton's probably better), both can take pitches away to left field, both have deceptive speed, and both need to work on being patient. The only clear hole in Votto's game would be his defense but if Scott Hatteberg, with his limited physically ability, can play first base, Votto can learn. Edwin Encarnacion may be the most intriguing of the Reds young players. He has flashed greatness at the plate and in the field in small doses. Eddie could become a perennial All-Star and important cog for a championship team, but could also turn out to be a below average defensive third baseman and a frustrating disappointment with a bat in his hands; he'll most likely end up somewhere in the middle. Next in line come names like Jerry Gil and Jeff Keppinger. Neither of these players should become a starter over the former names but both could be solid back-ups and bench pieces. Last, there are names like Paul Janish, Justin Turner, Chris Valaika, and Jose Castro. All of these players could have their names on the back of a Reds uniform in the future, but with the young guys already in the majors, their work is cut out for them. If anything it is nice to know the Reds have the ability to absorb an injury or have a decent trade piece without completely falling apart.