GOODYEAR, Arizona – David Bell, like many modern managers, has typically mixed-and-matched lineups based on the style of the opposing starting pitcher.
The Cincinnati Reds used 53 different lineup combinations during the regular season last year. There were six separate players who hit leadoff throughout the 60-game schedule: Phillip Ervin, Jesse Winker, Nick Senzel, Aristides Aquino, Joey Votto and Shogo Akiyama.
With the way the roster is lining up – Akiyama will begin the season on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain and Votto is nearing a return even if it might be a few days after Opening Day – the Reds should have seven consistent starters with Tucker Barnhart and Tyler Stephenson splitting time at catcher.