Reds could explore a cheap Kyle Schwarber alternative, but it would only annoy fans

San Diego Padres infielder Ryan O'Hearn | Sean M. Haffey/GettyImagesSince the offseason began, the conversation in Queen City has centered around one thing: are the Cincinnati Reds finally going to step into the big-boy aisle and add a left-handed slugger to drop into the heart of the batting order? In other words, go get Kyle Schwarber.

Instead, fans assume the front office will be shopping at the clearance rack while talking like they’re ready for Fifth Avenue. As such, a player Ryan O’Hearn feels like the classic “almost good enough” consolation prize that this fanbase has seen too many times. On paper, you can sell it as value. In the stands, it lands more like settling.

Signing Ryan…