Cincinnati Reds replace Jesse Winker with Tommy Pham

The Cincinnati Reds had a major hole to fill in their outfield. While they were able to get rid of Eugenio Suarez, it cost them Jesse Winker. As Winker was one of the few bright spots left in their lineup, he will be difficult to replace.

Nonetheless, the Reds are doing their best to find something that can produce in his place. According to Bob Nightengale Jr., they have signed Tommy Pham to a one year contract with a mutual option for the 2023 campaign.

Cincinnati Reds taking chance on Tommy Pham

Pham has generally been a solid all around player during his career, hitting for some power while getting on base and possessing respectable speed. He would be a nice fit atop the Reds’ lineup, setting the table for Joey Votto and Mike Moustakas in the middle of the lineup.

But this is also a bit of a gamble for Cincinnati. Pham was not the same after being traded to the Padres after the 2019 season. He battled injuries and came back from being stabbed in the back at a nightclub, all of which certainly hindered his production. As it was, he produced a .226/.335/.370 batting line with 18 homers and 26 doubles in his 686 plate appearances, stealing 20 bases.

Pham is also just past his hypothetical prime. He just turned 34 years old and may be about to start slowing down. However, even with those injuries, he was still able to get on base and show that there is some pop left in his bat. If he can be a bit better than he was in San Diego, the Reds would take that at the top of their lineup.

The Cincinnati Reds are not going to be able to replace Jesse Winker easily. Tommy Pham may be the closest they can get for now.