Héctor

Rodríguez

Rodríguez is the notable name here for fantasy managers, especially in dynasty formats after slashing .283/.336/.450 with 19 homers and 15 steals across 135 games between two levels to finish last year at Triple-A. The 21-year-old will require some additional seasoning on the doorstep of the majors but he’s a power/speed combo talent worth watching throughout the season. Arroyo is one of Cincinnati’s top prospects entering the year after batting .284/.345/.371 with three homers and 12 steals in 120 games last season for Double-A Chattanooga.

The 21-year-old Rodríguez, who was added to the Reds’ 40-man roster last month, is hitting .275/.370/.377 with just 10 strikeouts in 81 plate appearances in the Dominican Republic. He’s probably not going to be much of a threat to break camp with the Reds next spring, but he could definitely make his major league debut at some point during the season.

The trio will be protected from selection in next month’s Rule 5 Draft. Arroyo is the most prominent inclusion here as one of the better prospect in Cincinnati’s system. The 22-year-old hit .284/.345/.371 with three homers and 12 steals in 120 games last season for Double-A Chattanooga. Rodríguez is one of the more electric talents in the organization, and his long-term fantasy stock surged after he slashed .283/.336/.450 with 19 homers and 15 steals across 135 games between two levels, finishing the year at Triple-A. Balcazar also earns a spot on the 40-man roster after a strong showing recently in the Arizona Fall League.

Rodriguez has played in the infield and outfield in short-season FCL and Low-A St. Lucie. He’s hit well with a .342 average and .910 OPS, but this is very much a lottery ticket type of talent that is years away from making a contribution.