2012 MLB Free Agents: Cincinnati Reds Sign Ryan Ludwick
By Editorial Staff
The Cincinnati Reds were able to find the outfield depth they have been seeking, as the club agreed to a one-year deal with free agent Ryan Ludwick. The most recent addition to the Reds roster will earn a base salary of $2.5 million next season with an opportunity to earn another $500,000 in incentives. Ludwick’s contract also includes a mutual option for 2013.
Entering the New Year, the Reds only had three true outfielders on their roster. While Cincinnati’s primary focus was acquiring a closer, the Reds also knew they’d ultimately have to address their lack of outfield depth.
Nearly a week after reaching an agreement with closer Ryan Madson, the Reds have checked another need off their list.
Ludwick offers the club a player who has the ability to play both corner outfield positions and handle the bat fairly well. The 33-year-old has a career line of .261/.332/.455. Ludwick spent the 2011 season with the San Diego Padres and Pittsburgh Pirates, combining to hit at a clip of .237/.310/.363 with 13 home runs, 23 doubles and 73 RBI’s over his 490 plate appearances.
Ludwick figures to split time in left field with Chris Heisey next season. Though they are both right-handed hitters, Ludwick has had success over his career hitting right-handed pitching (.272 batting average).
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.