The Reds made an announcement on Tuesday.
The Cincinnati Reds are currently in the process of making their final offseason moves ahead of spring training. On Tuesday, the ball club announced nine non-roster spring training invitees: RHP Tejay Antone, C Will Banfield, INF Michael Chavis, RHP Hagen Danner, INF/OF Garrett Hampson, RHP Lyon Richardson, RHP Carson Spiers, INF Michael Toglia and LHP Joel Valdez.
Antone, 32, is among the standouts. He has displayed signs of potential in the past, but injuries have impacted his career. He's pitched to a 2.47 ERA across 45 total appearances, but those outings have stretched across four different seasons. He last pitched at the MLB level in 2024.
30-year-old Michael Chavis is another intriguing player. A versatile infielder, Chavis was once a highly-regarded young player with the Boston Red Sox. He endured ups and downs early in his career, though. Chavis last appeared in a big league game in 2023 with the Washington Nationals. He is hoping for another opportunity with the Reds this season.
Additionally, Hampson will be a player to watch. He is a guy who also offers defensive versatility. He can steal bases as well. While the 31-year-old has never been an especially productive offensive presence, his ability to play both the outfield and infield while also offering stolen base potential may place him on the Reds' radar in spring training.
Valdez, a 25-year-old reliever, could be someone who impacts the Reds' bullpen. He has never pitched at the MLB level, but he did turn in a 2.34 ERA between Double-A and Triple-A in the minor leagues last season. Left-handed relief help is always impactful without question, so perhaps Valdez will earn a role in the bullpen at some point down the road.
All nine of these players could make noise this spring. However, the aforementioned four players stand out for either their track records or potential fits on the roster. When it comes to spring training, though, any player is capable of catching the team's attention with a strong performance. All of these players will attempt to prove to the Reds that they are deserving of a spot on the big league roster.
Pitchers and catchers will report to spring training in mid-February. Cincinnati's spring will be especially intriguing to follow, as there are a number of players fighting for roster spots. Of course, some spots are already cemented, but there is uncertainty at certain positions and in specific roles.