Who'll Be SS for the Reds in '07?
Lopez was traded last season, Clayton is a distant memory, Freel's found a home in the outfield, and Rich Aurilia doesn't appear to be returning; so who'll be playing ShortStop for the Reds this spring? I know everyone's focus has been on acquiring good pitchers during the off-season. But what's to be done with our infielders, an often ignored weakness to last year's roster? Considering the number of errors acquired, this should be next on the club's "to do" list. Scott Hatteberg has seen years of play and will certainly continue to succeed on first base. And as long as Encarnacion finds his grove and holds, the 3rd Base line should be under control. Although the aged Juan Castro is still around, some recent acquisitions may solve the mid-infield issue. Jerry Gil seems a promising young addition, while still a bit green offensively his speed may help close the infield lanes. But from what I see, Alex Gonzalez will provide the most stability and will hopefully match well with Brandon Phillips on second base. As everyone keeps a close watch on the rapid trades for starting, closing, and relief pitchers, I will continue to monitor the ShortStop plans.