Josh Harrison, known for his versatility, has decided to opt out of his minor league contract with the Reds, according to C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic. Despite signing with the team last month under an agreement allowing him to opt out if not on the roster by March 21, he was informed that he wouldn’t be making the cut and is returning to free agency.
The journey for Harrison to secure a spot on the team faced hurdles, given the Reds’ abundance of promising young players. Although the team has faced setbacks with Noelvi Marte’s 80-game PED suspension and TJ Friedl’s wrist fracture, they still have numerous options to complete their lineup and roster. Players like Jeimer Candelario, Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand are capable of handling infield duties, while Spencer Steer, Jake Fraley, and Will Benson can contribute in the outfield, and Tyler Stephenson behind the plate.
Jonathan India can also fill various roles, either as a designated hitter or rotating through defensive positions. Bench spots are likely secured by Luke Maile and Stuart Fairchild, and there are additional options such as Bubba Thompson, Nick Martini, Rece Hinds, and Jacob Hurtubise on the roster. Non-roster invitees including Tony Kemp, Mike Ford, Mark Mathias, and Erik González are also available if the club decides to make further additions.
Harrison would have potentially fallen into the latter category, but recent performance concerns have been noted. He struggled with a .204/.263/.291 slash line for the Phillies last year before being released in August. Following a brief stint with the Rangers where he hit .222/.323/.370 in six games, he opted out of his minor league deal. In the current spring training, he’s posted a .250/.250/.350 line in eight games for the Reds.
However, Harrison’s past demonstrates his ability to be a reliable utility player in the majors. Between 2020 and 2022, he played 290 games and maintained a .270/.332/.390 batting line with a wRC+ of 102. While his walk rate was modest at 5.4%, he managed to keep strikeouts at a 14.7% rate. Notably, he showcased his versatility by playing every position except catcher.
Now, Harrison will seek another opportunity in the open market, with his versatility potentially aiding his search for a new team. While he may only be considered as an emergency option at first base, shortstop, or center field, given his limited experience in those positions, he offers ample experience at second base, third base, and the outfield corners. As teams finalize their camp cuts and veterans trigger opt-outs, roster movements are expected in the coming weeks.
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