Scouting Report: The Reds have moved Senzel around the field because they know his bat should play anywhere and he has the kind of easy athleticism that allows him to handle various defensive challenges. He features quick hands and a disciplined knowledge of the strike zone. A plus hitter, Senzel stays balanced with ease and stays short to the ball, allowing him to get the barrel on pitches in all areas of the strike zone. He makes consistent contact and has plus power that would profile at his natural position of third base. Senzel’s approach is aimed toward making hard contact to all fields. He is an above-average runner who runs the bases well. His good instincts and plus arm will be suited to play third base long term, but with that position manned by Suarez in Cincinnati, Senzel could pursue second base, center field or left field in the big leagues. He showed he can be at least an above-average defensive second baseman. Senzel tried both outfield spots at instructional league. His athleticism and understanding of the game should help him grow to be a solid defender at multiple positions.
The Future: While the Reds will play it safe with Senzel and his injury-riddled past, he should be playing in Cincinnati before long. His maturity and advanced approach both offensively and defensively should allow him to have an immediate impact on the big league club. When the Reds non-tendered Billy Hamilton, Senzel’s path to an outfield job in 2019 cleared, but second base is a logical landing spot once Scooter Gennett’s contract expires after the 2019 season.
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