3.1.10
BY: MEH
YONDER ALONSO IS VERSATILE?
WHERE WILL THE YOUNG PROSPECT LAND IN 2010?

(Photo: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
I would like to start off by saying that I am just as excited as anyone else to see what Yonder Alonso can do in the big leagues. But, did I ever think that he would be doing it at any position other than first base?  No way. Not to discredit any first basemen out there, I just always assumed it was more of an offensive position and the Reds knew that they were recruiting a bat.

With the emergence of players like Albert Pujols and potentially our own Joey Votto, I humbly correct myself.

Could the former No. 7 draft pick reinvent himself and become a versatile player defensively? Could he end up in the outfield, third base, or even behind the plate? (Dusty Baker has mentioned that Alonso is built like a catcher.) With the Reds' solid infielders and barrage of outfielders, Alonso knows acknowledges the need for utility.

“I’ll do whatever I can to get on the field,” he said. “Give Joey a day off. Give Scottie (Rolen) a day off. Play left a day.”

With an attitude like that he could very easily be on his way to the big league club if/when the eventual injuries occur. His bat alone may land him in a Reds uniform this season, but let's just hope that his optimism can translate into a decent fielding percentage when the time comes. No matter what happens, we can only hope that the Reds get the offense that they bargained for. Anything else, in my opinion, would be sprinkles on a doughnut.

Even if we don't see Alonso this season his arrival is still highly anticipated. He is a cog that provides hope to Reds fans who believe this organization is heading into new direction. A direction towards winning. And his desire cannot be denied.

"I play with a lot of hunger. I consider myself a line-drive hitter. I can drive the ball, but I'm more of a gap-to-gap guy. I'm a very passionate guy. I take baseball very seriously. I'm a winner."

MORE YONDER ALONSO
-Reds' Alonso trying different positions MARK SHELDON
-Yonder Alonso player page BASEBALL-REFERENCE
-Alonso doesn't want to be traded C. TRENT

MORE NEWS
-Valaika introduced to failure in 2009 JOHN FAY
-2010 Reds promotions REDS.COM

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