In just three days, the Cincinnati Reds reversed their initial decision regarding Mike Ford’s call-up. Initially opting not to elevate him to the major league roster after he opted out of his minor-league contract over the weekend, they have now reportedly brought him back on a major league deal.
Ford showcased his talent during spring training, emerging as one of the Reds’ standout performers. Across 10 games in the Cactus League, he boasted an impressive .455 batting average along with a 1.213 OPS. Despite this, he wasn’t initially chosen for the trip from Goodyear to Cincinnati. Instead, the Reds sent him to Triple-A Louisville, where he continued to excel, maintaining a batting line of .297/.381/.539 with the Louisville Bats.
Known for his consistent performance against both left-handed and right-handed pitchers throughout his career, Ford could likely feature in the starting lineup tonight, especially with Jordan Montgomery pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Reds reconsider controversial decision, re-sign Mike Ford to major league deal
Following the news, the issue arose as to who the Reds would send down. The Reds placed first baseman Christian Encarnacion-Strand on the 10-day injured list due to a right ulnar styloid fracture, despite some speculation that he would be optioned to Triple-A.
Another potential move could have involved designating Conner Capel for assignment, although the Reds had recently added Capel to the 40-man roster on Tuesday. Jeimer Candelario has also struggled since joining the Reds, but he remains a crucial signing with no minor league options left.
To accommodate Ford on the 40-man roster, the Reds transferred Brandon Williamson from the 15-day to the 60-day IL.
Mike Ford goes back to the Reds, this time on MLB deal. Reports today.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) May 8, 2024
Despite the recent struggles, Reds fans can find solace in the proactive approach of president of baseball operations Nick Krall, who acknowledges the team’s hitting woes and is taking steps to address them. The Reds have been notably lacking in offensive output, scoring just four runs across their last four games.
The #Reds today announced the following transactions: pic.twitter.com/PtWC5Njyqj
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) May 8, 2024
To get back on the right track, the Reds don’t have to make a big trade or overhaul their entire squad. The success of the Reds this season depends on the majority of the struggling players. Maybe adding Ford will help the offense click and inspire some of those underperforming players.