Shogo Akiyama doesn't make Cincinnati Reds roster, could become a free agent

GOODYEAR, Ariz. – A little more than two years after the Cincinnati Reds introduced Japanese outfielder Shogo Akiyama with great fanfare at a press conference, Akiyama’s time with the organization is likely over.

Akiyama was informed Sunday morning he will not make the Reds’ Opening Day roster. He is owed $8 million this year and the Reds cannot send him to the minor leagues without his consent. If Akiyama does not want to play at Triple-A Louisville, he will be designated for assignment by Thursday, creating a path for him to become a free agent.

“We felt we had better options in the outfield,” Reds General Manager Nick Krall said. “We like the guys that have played out there with (Jake)…