What top prospect Nick Senzel brings to the table for the Reds
By Zach Houle
The Cincinnati Reds called up their top prospect, Nick Senzel. How will the 23-year-old fair in the majors?
The Cincinnati Reds need a boost this season. They’re last in the National League Central and have underperformed all year. It will be hard for them to claw their way back into the race with the rest of the division looking strong.
Cincy has called up top prospect Nick Senzel to help in the outfield. He has always been a player that baseball people have high expectations for. His ability to hit well with average and power are reason for his prospect pedigree. Before coming up to the big leagues, the slugger hit .312 at Triple-A with six home runs in 193 plate appearances.
Having that production in the major leagues is not a tall task if he can stay on the ball and be selective with plate discipline. That will come in time for the 23-year-old, as he should stick with the club for the long haul.
Here’s a take from Doug Gray of RedsMinorLeagues.com about Senzel’s intangibles in article:
"One thing that Nick Senzel does that doesn’t quite fit into one section of the scouting report is his baserunning. He’s a very smart baserunner. While his speed does give him the chance to steal 15-20 bases in a season, he’s going to likely provide plenty of additional value on the bases that don’t come simply from the stolen bases.His plate discipline is strong. In his minor league career he’s walked 109 times (10.6%) and struck out 203 times (19.7%). He understands the strikezone, and isn’t afraid to take pitches and hit while behind in the count.”"
Senzel is a good defender and has solid instincts at the hot corner. Although he’s blocked at third base in MLB by Eugenio Suarez, the top prospect could play there in the future. Senzel should be just fine in the outfield, as he played in center in his debut. The Reds are getting a guy who will show up everyday and provide a power bat. He’s a young player who can play multiple spots in the outfield and start something for the struggling Reds.
Next. Madison Bumgarner is increasing his trade value. dark
His ceiling could be a Joey Votto-esque bat, but without a ton of walks. It will be exciting to see him advance in the league and be a difference-maker for Cincinnati, whether that be right now or in the foreseeable future. The Reds have a stud in the making now that is just one of a trio of potential superstars in the pipeline.