TJ Hopkins, Cincinnati Reds. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
The Cincinnati Reds will likely see some major roster changes before the trade deadline. Which Reds won’t be on the roster in a few weeks?
The Cincinnati Reds are in the midst of some of the most exciting times in Cincinnati during the 21st century. They have been dubbed “America’s team”, with the statement becoming a bit of a sarcastic joke around the clubhouse.
The Reds are young, energetic and fun. And they are winning. They’re playing incredible baseball, led by some really exciting young prospects. Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer have taken the National League by storm, all thrusting themselves into the NL Rookie of the Year race.
These are five players and/or prospects that will be on the Reds roster for the rest of this year and years to come. Not every player will be lucky enough to make the cut when July rolls around.
Reds Rumors: 5 players who won’t be on the roster by July 1
5. TJ Hopkins will likely be back in Triple-A Louisville
TJ Hopkins got the call-up a few weeks ago, providing the Reds will quality outfield depth as they have missed multiple starters with injuries. Hopkins isn’t one of the Reds’ highest-rated prospects, but he has completely torn Triple-A pitching apart. That’s left him and the Reds in a really weird spot. It seems as though he is too talented for Triple-A, but not developed enough to be an everyday starter with the Reds.
Hopkins just hasn’t been able to find his groove in Cincinnati. In Triple-A this year, he’s slashing .341/.437/.540, but in his 23 MLB at-bats, his slash line has been .174/.208/.174. He provides the Reds with good depth in the top of the minor leagues, but with multiple starters returning in the outfield, his spot doesn’t appear safe.
The Reds are going to need to make a few big decisions as they have multiple players returning from the injured list. Jose Barrero was the first player to be optioned to Triple-A, making room for Nick Senzel to return on Friday.
Hopkins will likely be replaced whenever Jake Fraley returns from the IL. Fraley suffered a right wrist contusion after he was hit by a pitch. The left-handed outfielder is expected to be back on Sunday, potentially marking the end of TJ Hopkins’s first run with the Reds.