The Cincinnati Reds have finalized their 25 man roster for opening day. Johnny Cueto, Paul Bako, Mike Lincoln, Kent Mercker, and Corey Patterson all had their contracts purchased by the big league club and made the roster.
David Ross, Alex Gonzalez, and Matt Belisle were all placed on the 15 day disabled list.
Mike Stanton and Jon Coutlangus were designated for assignment.
The Cincinnati Reds have signed two former Chicago Cubs players that played under manager Dusty Baker. Centerfielder Corey Patterson and utility player Jerry Hairston Jr. have both signed minor league contracts with an invitation to spring training with the Reds.
Patterson had played the last few seasons with the Balitmore Orioles after he was traded there from the Chicago Cubs. Patterson who was once thought to be a five tool player has never really got it going at the plate in his career. He is a good defender however, and can provide the Reds with some depth.
Hairston played with the San Diego Padres last and was mostly used as a utility player. He can play in the outfield as well as the infield. He is a decent player, but isn’t going to put many numbers up in the stats column.
The Cincinnati Reds have added some depth to their pitching rotation as they have signed Josh Fogg to a one year contract. Fogg might not start the season in the rotation, but he is a veteran who knows how to play the game and can sure help out some of the younger pitchers.
Last year Fogg pitched for the Colorado Rockies and went 10-9 with a 4.90 ERA. Remember he did pitch at Coors Field as well. I think this is a good pickup for the Reds, and Fogg will prove to be valuable to the team in 2008.
Brandon Phillips has signed a four year contract with the the Cincinnati Reds on Friday. The deal also includes an option for the fifth year. Reports are saying that the contract will pay Phillips $27 million dollars. Sounds like a lot of money for Phillips if you ask me.
Just a quick update for everyone today as Matt Belisle and the Cincinnati Reds have agreed on a one year contact that will pay Belisle $1.25 million dollars. Belisle is hoping for a spot in the starting rotation, but I think he would be better suited in the bullpen for long relieft or middle innings work.
What do you think Reds fans? Is Belisle a starting pitcher or a long reliever?
The Cincinnati Reds picked up a relief pitcher to help out of the bullpen in 2008. Jeremy Affeldt and the Reds have agreed on a one year contract that will be worth $3 million dollars. Pretty good deal for Affeldt, and I think the Reds over paid by around 1 million. But you have to have some decent players in the bullpen if you want a chance to compete.
What do you think Reds fans? Do you like the Affeldt signing?
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