RADIO
Nick Senzel 2021 Outlook: Prove-It Season for Former Top Prospect
4 years agoCincinnati Reds outfielder Nick Senzel may be looking at his last shot to prove that he can crack the starting lineup as a regular. The former #2 overall pick has struggled with injuries, hasn't found a permanent home defensively, and has failed to produce at the plate at the pro level. As a rookie in 2019, Senzel slashed a mediocre .256/.315/.427 but showed off his wheels with 14 steals. In 2020, he struggled mightily with a slash line of .186/.247/.357 over 78 plate appearances before landing on the IL. He collected just two hits in his final 25 at-bats upon returning from injury.
Once thought to be a star in the marking, he now has a role to full time at-bats as Cincinnati's primary centerfielder. With Shogo Akiyama going down with an injury this spring, Senzel has seen the majority of looks in centerfield. If he maintains that job through opening day, then Senzel is a late-round flier with little risk to acquire his services and take a chance on a breakout.
