Reds hope search for leadoff hitter ends with Akiyama

PHOENIX (AP) — The Cincinnati Reds hope their long-running search for a consistent leadoff hitter comes to an end with Shogo Akiyama.

The first Japanese-born player in franchise history signed a three-year, $21 million deal during the offseason and is part of the team's extensive overhaul. Mike Moustakas, Nick Castellanos, Wade Miley and Pedro Strop were also added to end a streak of six straight losing seasons.

But it's the 32-year-old Akiyama who might be the most intriguing. He was a consistent star in Nippon Professional Baseball over the past five seasons, hitting over .300 four times while flashing consistent power and providing stellar defense.

If he can do something similar in Cincinnati, the Reds will be thrilled.

“There's only 60 games and obviously the goal is to make the playoffs,” Akiyama said through an interpreter. “My personal goal is to play in every game so I just want to compete in every single game I play. That's what I want to bring.”

Here's a look at 10 players to watch for the upcoming season. This week's focus is on the NL and AL Central Divisions.

CHICAGO WHITE SOX: RHP Lucas Giolito. The former first-round pick developed into an All-Star last season, finishing with a 14-9 record, 3.41 ERA and 228 strikeouts in 176 innings. He's still young — turning 26 on Tuesday — and part of the White Sox's young nucleus that the franchise hopes can lead a turnaround.

CLEVELAND INDIANS: SS Francisco Lindor. The 26-year-old shortstop is an established star and had another great year in 2019, batting .284 with 32 homers, 22 stolen bases and winning a Gold Glove. The problem for the Indians is they probably can't afford to keep him when he hits the free agency market following the 2021 season. A blockbuster trade could happen sooner rather than...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Reds-hope-search-for-leadoff-hitter-ends-with-15409120.php