Reds Rumors: Cincinnati Seeking Outfield Depth
While the Cincinnati Reds top priority is re-signing closer Francisco Cordero, the club will likely soon turn its attention to the outfield. Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports that the Reds are targeting outfield depth, specifically left field, and have expressed interest in free agent Cody Ross. Jon Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer says the Reds are also interested in free agent outfielders Rick Ankiel and Ryan Ludwick.
At the moment, the Reds have only four outfielders on their 40-man roster. Fay and Sheldon each note that Cincinnati’s focus is on reaching an agreement with Cordero, but that the signing or lack thereof will impact the team’s search for an extra outfielder.
Basically, if the Reds do sign Cordero to a deal that is expected to be in the $6 to $8 million range, they will have less to spend on an outfielder.
While Reds general manager Walt Jocketty told Fay that “nothing is close” regarding an outfield addition, he has acknowledged interest in Ross, Ankiel and Ludwick.
The Reds currently sport an outfield that consists of Chris Heisey, Jay Bruce and Drew Stubbs. Todd Frazier is a utility type player that also has the ability to man the outfield for Cincinnati.
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