Reds Press Clippings February 9, 2015

CINCINNATI ENQUIRER Reds, Frazier agree to a two-year deal By John Fay / Cincinnati Enquirer / [email protected] / @Johnfayman

Todd Frazier wanted to avoid arbitration. He did — not only for this year but for next year as well.

Frazier and the Reds agreed to a two-year, $12 million deal Sunday.

Frazier's hearing was scheduled for Thursday. Frazier was first-time arbitration-eligible. He filed for $5.7 million. The club countered at $3.9 million.

He will make $4.5 million this year and $7.5 million next year. He will be arbitration-eligible again in 2017.

"I'm happy for my family," Frazier said. "This keeps me a Red for another two years at least. I'm happy for the city as well. This is another step."

Frazier and the Reds talked about a longer-term deal.

"We talked about a longer deal but we couldn't work it out," he said."But I'm glad to get something done. Arbitration is tough for both sides. It's a crazy some of the things that go on behind the scenes."

Frazier is coming off his best year in the majors. He .273 with 29 home runs, 80 RBI and 20 stolen bases. He played in 157 games — most of any Red — and made the All-Star Game for the first time.

The Reds signed Devin Mesoraco to a four-year, $28 million deal last week. Frazier was in likely for considerably more than that.

The closest player to compare to Frazier is probably Seattle's Kyle Seager. Both are third basemen. Frazier, 28, has hit .258/.336/.451 with 73 home runs and 235 RBI in his career. Seager, 27, has hit .262/.328/.429 with 70 home runs and 264 RBI in his career.

The Mariners gave Seager a seven-year, $100 million contract this offseason.

Aroldis Chapman is the only other arb-eligible Red who remains unsigned. Chapman filed for $8.7 million. The Reds countered at $6.65 million. Chapman is arb-eligible for the second time.

The Reds have not taken a player to arbitration since they beat in 2004.

Frazier, by the way, was thrilled with the moves the Reds made Saturday, signing veteran relievers Burke Badenhop and .

"I remember facing Gregg he was always tough," Frazier said. "I think I only faced Badenhop once. They both bring emotion and energy. We need that. Also that veteran presence. I liked both moves."

Jocketty: Patience pays in signing relievers By John Fay / Cincinnati Enquirer / [email protected] / @Johnfayman

Sometimes, it pays to wait. Or, more correctly, if you wait, you pay less.

The Reds signed right-hander Burke Badenhop to a one-year, $1 million deal with a mutual option for 2016 and signed right-hander Kevin Gregg to a minor-league deal.

Badenhop and Gregg are the first proven, veteran additions to the Reds' bullpen this offseason. The bullpen was a major weakness last year. The Reds finished second to last in the in ERA at 4.11.

If the Reds had tried to sign either Badenhop or Gregg earlier in the offseason, they would not have been able to afford them.

"Patience and persistence," Reds general Walt Jocketty said. "That's my mantra."

Badenhop, 31, is the big get. He was 0-3 with a 2.29 ERA and one for the . Badenhop is guaranteed $2.5 million in the deal. He'll make $4 million next year if the Reds pick up the option; he'll get a $1.5 million buyout if they do not.

Still, in today's baseball, that's a huge bargain. Consider: Badenhop's WAR (Wins Above Replacement) was 1.5 last year. Zach Duke had a 1.2 WAR last year and he signed a three-year, $14.5 million deal with the .

"We've been talking to Badenhop for a while," Jocketty said. "He's a great fit for our ballpark. He's a groundball . He can pitch in a lot of roles. He gives us a lot of flexibility."

Badenhop had a 61 percent groundball rate last year, according to fangraphs.com, and only allowed one home in 70 2/3 .

The Reds will be his fifth major league team. He broke in with the Florida Marlins and spent four years in the big leagues there with middling success. He's been with a new club each of the last three seasons — going from Tampa Bay to Milwaukee to Boston each time in a trade. Over that span, he's put up a 2.90 ERA over 199 games and allowed 13 home runs in 195 1/3 innings.

Gregg struggled last year — a 10.00 ERA in 12 games for Miami — before having elbow surgery in August. But he was 2-6 with a 3.48 ERA and 33 saves in 2013 with the .

He worked out for scouts last week. The Reds were there.

"If fact, we've taken an in-depth look in his medical," Jocketty said. "He should be fine. He just had bone chips removed. Plus, he's a non-roster guy. There's not a lot of risk, but we think he can help us. He can pitch in a lot of different roles."

Adding Badenhop and Gregg raises the chances of right-hander Raisel Iglesias and left-hander Tony Cingrani being in the rotation. The Reds have two spots open behind Johnny Cueto, Homer Bailey and Mike Leake.

Iglesias, the Cuban the Reds signed to a seven-year, $27 million deal, is the second-rated prospect in the organization by . Scouts think he has the stuff to compete in the majors right now.

Cingrani started last year as the Reds' fourth starter but struggled with shoulder problems. He and Iglesias could be candidates to fix the bullpen. But that's less necessary after the Saturday signings.

"It was important to strength the bullpen," Jocketty said. "We've got a lot young guys competing for those spots in the rotation."

To make room on the 40-man roster for Badenhop, the Reds designated left-hander Ismael Guillon for assignment. Guillon was the 31st ranked prospect in the organization by BA.

Rotation, health and leadership questions loom for Reds Filling out the rotation and Byrd’s potential leadership role By John Fay / Cincinnati Enquirer / [email protected] / @Johnfayman

The Reds had a busy day Saturday, adding veteran relievers Burke Badenhop and Kevin Gregg 10 days before and report to Goodyear, Ariz.

The moves answered one big question: Will the club do anything to fix the bullpen? The Badenhop signing was a big enough coup that I didn't get any Twitter complaints about it. A rare, rare thing these days.

But a lot of questions remain about this club. We'll look at 10 of them — one for each day until pitchers and catchers report. Some will be resolved before spring begins, others will play out over the season.

— Is Joey Votto healthy? This is the big question going into spring. Votto's knee/quad injury was, to borrow the Winston Churchill quote, a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma.

The Reds have gotten reports that Votto is fine. But Votto was purposefully vague when asked about the knee at Redsfest. He's not likely to be any more forthcoming when he gets to Goodyear, so until he's out there playing and hitting like he did in 2013, we won't know.

— What will the Reds do with Raisel Iglesias? To me, he may be the most intriguing guy in camp.

Scouts raved about his stuff in the Arizona Fall League. As did, Reds manager Bryan Price.

"Four pitches with command — that spells out , especially when it's plus-stuff across the board," Price said. "He was 93-97, so the velocity is there. The action on his fastball is there, much better than I anticipated seeing and two quality breaking balls and a good feel. His last (appearance) that he made in the fall league, he had two on 3-2 breaking balls. That type of confidence and ability to execute those pitches in those situations suggests he's a little bit more advanced than a lot of guys who are getting their first chance in big league camp."

Iglesias could slot nicely in the No. 4 starter spot and leave the No. 5 spot for others.

— What about Johnny C? The Reds have taken the never-say-never approach with Johnny Cueto's contract status. But in light of Max Scherzer's seven-year, $280-million deal, Cueto is going to be frightfully expensive.

And seven-year deals with pitchers usually don't work out, regardless of the money. Cueto's given the Reds an Opening Day deadline. How will it affect Cueto if the Reds have to admit he's too expensive?

— Will Price be different in Year 2? Price admitted his first year was a learning experience in some regards.

My guess is he'll have a sense of urgency from the start. He's on the second year of a two-year contract and his new third base , Jim Riggleman, has a lot of big league experience. A good start will be important after last year's rough ride.

— Will the Reds add more players before spring? Probably not, Reds general manager Walt Jocketty said Saturday. After inquiring about / Dayan Viciedo, Jocketty said the Reds are not a likely fit. "He wants more playing time than we can give him," Jocketty said. "He wants to start or at least platoon."

— What will the lineup be? Price hasn't committed to anything other than Billy Hamilton leading off and Zack Cozart eighth. The biggest question is who will hit No. 2? The addition of Marlon Byrd gives Price more choices.

— What will his sophomore year bring for Hamilton? Hamilton's rookie year was mixed bag. He had a terrific first half. His defense was top-shelf from start to finish. He won some games with his legs. But he got caught stealing a ton. And his bat wilted down the stretch. Skipping Winter Ball and working on strength should help. But Hamilton has to raise his walk rate a bit and strike out fewer times to be an effective leadoff man.

— Can the new guy lead? The Reds talked a lot about Byrd's leadership skills when the trade was made for him. It was obvious the front office and coaching staff wants a change in the clubhouse culture. That can be tough for a new player — even a veteran — to affect.

— Will the Reds go to arbitration? Todd Frazier's and 's arbitration cases remain unresolved. The Reds haven't gone to arbitration since 2004. Both sides try mightily to avoid it. But Chapman is over $2 million apart and Frazier is $1.8 million apart.

— Can Jay Bruce bounce back? Bruce's knee obviously had an adverse impact on his season last year. It was a miserable year for him. The Reds need him to be at his 2012, 2013 level when he won the Silver Slugger as the best hitting in the National League.

MLB Network says Brandon Phillips isn’t a top 10 2B By C. Trent Rosecrans / Cincinnati Enquirer / [email protected] / @ctrent

Reds Aroldis Chapman is just the sixth-best reliever in baseball and Brandon Phillips isn't one of the top 10 second basemen in the game — at least according to MLB Network.

The network debuted the latest of its "Top 10 Right Now" series on Thursday, highlighting the best players at each position in baseball. The show uses what it calls "the Shredder" as a statistical formula.

Chapman finished sixth by the "Shredder," but was ranked No. 2 by analyst Dan Plesac and No. 3 by host Brian Kenny. Both human analysts had Braves closer Craig Kimbrel ranked No. 1, while the Shredder had Royals set-up man Wade Davis as No. 1. Last season, Chapman was also ranked sixth.

Phillips was out of the top 10 at second base for the second straight year, as his numbers continue a downward trajectory, in part due to injuries each of the last two seasons.

MLB Network analyst Harold Reynolds had Phillips ranked No. 6, while Kenny didn't have him ranked. In their discussion, the two had the most spirited debate about Phillips, as Reynolds noted Phillips' RBI as the primary reason for him being in the top 10.

Here's MLB Network's two lists from the "Shredder":

Relief pitchers

1. Wade Davis, Royals

2. Greg Holland, Royals

3. Craig Kimbrel, Braves

4. , Yankees

5. Joaquin Benoit, Padres

6. Aroldis Chapman, Reds

7. Mark Melancon, Pirates

8. , Red Sox

9. Zach Britton, Orioles

10. Tony Watson, Pirates

Second basemen

1. Robinson Cano, Mariners

2. Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox

3. Ben Zobrist, A's

4. Neil Walker, Pirates

5. Ian Kinsler, Tigers

6. Jose Altuve, Astros

7. Howie Kendrick, Dodgers

8. Chase Utley, Phillies

9. Brian Dozier, Twins

10. Scooter Gennett, Brewers

Last week MLB Network had Joey Votto as the No. 4 in the game and Johnny Cueto the No. 6 starting pitcher. The series wraps up next Thursday with catchers and third basemen.

MLB.COM Reds, Frazier agree to 2-year deal was arbitration-eligible for the first time By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com / [email protected] / @m_sheldon

CINCINNATI -- The Reds and All-Star third baseman Todd Frazier avoided arbitration on Sunday by agreeing to a two-year, $12 million contract.

Frazier, who was arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason, will earn $4.5 million in 2015 and $7.5 million in '16, and he will have one year of arbitration eligibility remaining at the end of the deal.

"We went back and forth with all of the options. My agent thought this was the best one," said Frazier, who is represented by CAA Sports and agent Brodie Van Wagenen.

Frazier turns 29 on Thursday, which was also the day his arbitration hearing was scheduled. There was some anxiety building over the unresolved status.

"A little bit, to be honest. It was coming up quick," Frazier said. "You want there to be stability. I've had a good offseason with my workouts but it was in the back of my mind that I was not signed yet."

Frazier batted .273/.336/.459 with a team-leading 29 home runs and 80 RBIs in 157 games last season and became a first-time All- Star. He was worth 5.3 wins above replacement, according to baseball-reference.com.

Since his big league debut in 2011, Frazier is a .258/.325/.451 hitter for his career with 73 homers and 235 RBIs.

While happy with his deal, Frazier did not get as many years in his contract as the four-year, $28 million contract Reds Devin Mesoraco signed on Jan. 26 to avoid arbitration. When he filed for arbitration last month, Frazier was seeking $5.7 million, while the club's counter offer was $3.9 million.

A third baseman with very close statistics by comparison, Kyle Seager of the Mariners, signed a seven-year, $100 million contract in early December. Frazier indicated that a longer deal with the Reds could be possible one day.

"I think both sides are pretty happy about it," Frazier said. "You never know what might happen down the road.

"I think everybody wants a long-term deal and stability. Right now, we thought this was the best option for us."

Closer Aroldis Chapman is the Reds' lone remaining arbitration-eligible player.

Reds sign Badenhop, Gregg to bolster bullpen By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com / [email protected] / @m_sheldon

CINCINNATI -- Upgrading the bullpen was a high priority for the Reds this offseason, but they also didn't want to spend too much money while doing it.

With nearing, general manager Walt Jocketty was able to get two relievers at a relative bargain. Right-hander Burke Badenhop was signed Saturday to a one-year, $1 million contract with a $4 million mutual option for 2016. If either side declines the option, it can be bought out for $1.5 million. Also, veteran right-hander Kevin Gregg agreed to a Minor League deal with an invite to big league camp.

The Reds bullpen combined for a 4.11 ERA in 2014 that was the second-highest mark in the National League behind Colorado.

"We thought it was important to strengthen our bullpen as much as we could," Jocketty said.

A groundball specialist who will turn 32 on Sunday, Badenhop posted a 2.29 ERA in 70 games last season for the Red Sox. Over 70 2/3 innings, he had a 61 percent groundball rate. He surrendered just one among his 70 hits allowed , walked 19 (five intentional) and had 40 strikeouts.

One of better arms remaining on the free-agent market, Badenhop has a lifetime 3.71 ERA in seven seasons in the big leagues with the Marlins, Rays, Brewers and Red Sox.

"He's able to pitch a lot," Jocketty said. "He has very good numbers. He is a groundball pitcher that throws a lot of sinkers and sliders. He's a very good fit for our ballpark."

A specific role for Badenhop was not identified.

"We can use him a lot of different ways," Jocketty said. "I think he can do anything. We will see how he fits. He is very versatile."

Gregg, 36, pitched in 12 games with the Marlins last season after signing in June. He struggled, though, allowing 10 earned runs in nine innings. Gregg was better in 2013, when he saved 33 games and posted a 3.48 ERA in 62 appearances with the Cubs.

Gregg had bone chips removed from his elbow after last season.

"We checked it out. He should be fully recovered. He is a non-roster guy, so there is little risk," Jocketty said. "He's a guy with experience and has experience as a closer. He might be able to pitch in the late innings for us."

In a corresponding roster move, left-handed pitcher Ismael Guillon was designated for assignment. The Reds on Saturday also named Dustin Hughes as their bullpen catcher.

Braggs’ 1990 broken-bat fame remains intact Reds outfielder says impressive feat wasn’t new for him By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com / [email protected] / @m_sheldon

CINCINNATI -- When Reds fans meet former outfielder , he already has a pretty good idea of what they will ask him about.

How did Braggs break that bat over his shoulder while swinging in the ?

"This is the thing I find the most funny. I'm asked about the broken bat more than anything," Braggs said.

In Game 4 of the vs. the A's on Oct. 20, Braggs was pressed into service to bat in the second . He replaced , who suffered a lacerated kidney in the bottom of the first inning trying to make a diving catch.

Braggs, who led off the second, had a 1-0 count against Oakland . Although listed at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, Braggs looked like he was built much bigger -- especially with his large and muscular arms. World Series broadcasters and Tim McCarver were quick to point that out after the first pitch of the plate appearance.

"We've mentioned it before, but this fella has a tremendous physique. He's built more like a football player than a baseball player," Buck said while calling the game.

On the very next pitch, Braggs swung wildly and missed on a Stewart fastball. The handle of the bat connected with the back of his left shoulder. The bat snapped in half, leaving Buck and McCarver shocked and amazed.

"There's an example!" McCarver exclaimed.

"That's how strong he is, folks!" said Buck.

"Holy cow!" replied McCarver.

"Have you ever seen that before?" Buck asked.

"No," said McCarver.

"I never have," replied Buck.

"We kiddingly talked about how he's built more like 'Fort Braggs,'" McCarver added.

Even in the days before the Internet, MLB.com and video clips gone viral, it was still a water cooler-type of moment.

"I am asked a lot about the broken bat, primarily because it happened on national TV in the World Series," said Braggs, who flied out in that at-bat vs. Stewart. "But I had done it about a dozen times before that."

A more tangible moment for the team came a little over a week earlier in the National League Championship Series vs. the Pirates. In Game 6 on Oct. 12, 1990, with trying to close it out with a 2-1 lead in the top of the ninth, Carmelo Martinez skied an opposite-field fly to right field. Backed up to the wall, Braggs jumped and made the catch for the second out, robbing Martinez of a two-run home run that would have put Pittsburgh ahead. Myers then struck out Don Slaught to end the series.

"I love talking about that 1990 year. It was just a fun year. The catch was probably the pinnacle of my career," Braggs said. "I was never really known as a glove guy but one of the biggest memories of my career was the catch that I made."

Braggs had come to the Reds from the Brewers in a June 9, 1990, trade for pitcher . He remained with Cincinnati through 1992 before finishing his career playing in Japan.

During his playing days, Braggs married singer Cindy Herron from the pop group En Vogue, and the couple now has four children. Now 52 with one kid in college, two in high school and a fifth-grader, Braggs lives in Los Angeles and is involved in a variety of activities.

"About three or four years ago, I completely changed my diet over to vegan. I have a completely vegan diet," Braggs said. "I work with kids on the weekend doing hitting lessons. I'm involved in real estate. I do some acting and some modeling. My primary focus is my family because I have the time to do so. I get to drive my kids in the morning and pick them up from school."

Braggs doesn't mind looking back, however. This will be the 25th-anniversary season since the Reds' last World Series.

"It was one of the best teams I ever played on from the standpoint of camaraderie and togetherness," Braggs said. "That team had a lot of fun. We were gamers on the field and we were friends off the field. We did a lot of things off the field together -- dinner excursions, the pool and it was all just a lot of fun."

Baker keeping busy, hoping for return to baseball Former manager enjoying time off but has more to contribute to game By Terence Moore / MLB.com

I'm sorry, but Dusty Baker has no business in his Sacramento hometown doing anything right now other than preparing to leave for Spring Training in Arizona or Florida as somebody's manager. If nothing else, he should be just a phone call away from joining the front office of a Major League team, which brings me to the bottom line: He's a gifted baseball lifer.

Instead, Baker is spending his retirement age of 65 in an active yet restless state away from the game of his soul.

In 2014, Baker wasn't involved in a Major League season as a player, coach or manager for just his second time since 1968. The two-time All-Star outfielder with the Dodgers and three-time Manager of the Year with the Giants was dismissed as Reds manager following the 2013 season. He was fresh from leading Cincinnati to a third trip to the playoffs during his six years in town.

Within days, Baker said he was urged by baseball folks to take a lengthy sabbatical from the game or to stay retired. He said they were worried about his history of heart-related issues. In September 2012, he missed several Reds games after he was hospitalized with an irregular heartbeat.

So much for old news. As for the new, Baker said over the phone the other day from his Northern home that he never has felt better. That's why, after managing the Giants for a decade through the , and after leading the Cubs for four years that nearly included their first National League pennant since 1945, and after making the Reds a consistent force in the NL Central, you've guessed it: Baker said he wants another chance making decisions for a Major League team.

"But, hey, it's all good, man. Life's good," said Baker, who, among other things, has more time these days to bond with his son, Darren. Yep, I'm talking about the instantly famous Giants bat boy who isn't 3 years old anymore. He's 16. During that 2002 World Series, he nearly was trampled at home plate for his father's team until he was yanked away at the last second by J.T. Snow.

Anyway, the older Baker and the younger Baker went to the national championship game of college football last month, and they journeyed to the Final Four last year.

"This [free time] is giving me a chance to do things that I wanted to do but couldn't do if I was still involved with baseball," said Baker, who refused broadcasting offers after his Reds dismissal from ESPN, MLB Network and the Dodgers' TV team. "Really, it was just too soon for me to do any of those things, and I'm looking at it as a blessing."

Consider this: In addition to joining Darren at more sporting events, Baker has been able to see his son play in them, including a trip to Vancouver for Darren's youth baseball team in Vancouver. They've gone fishing together in Montana, and back in Sacramento, Baker is a long ways from the wide-eyed slugger who was in the on-deck circle for the Braves when Hank Aaron became baseball's all-time home run champion in April 1974.

Baker is sprinting deeper into the wine business, and he has vineyards throughout his massive property to prove it. Not only is he the president of "Baker Family Wines," but of "Baker Energy Team," which promotes the storage of solar energy. After he attended a slew of conferences on the subject, he decided to start the solar-energy business with several of his old elementary, high school and college friends. And, yes, his home is solar powered, complete with a solar well, solar pool and solar hot-water facility.

Then there is Baker's garden. It's huge. The same goes for the leaves from the mustard greens that grow freely around his property, along with everything from grapes to onions to beets.

"Really, at this point, I just have to slow it down, because things are going at such a fast pace," said Baker, adding that he also had the opportunity to join his wife, Melissa, in watching their daughter, Natosha, get married in the backyard of their Sacramento home. "Even though things are going at a fast pace, they are all things that are fulfilling. I mean, a lot of the things I'm doing, like solar energy, are helping people have a better life."

That said, Baker is a baseball guy.

He'll always be a baseball guy.

"No question, I'd like to have another chance to manage, because the only thing lacking in my career is [a World Series championship]," said Baker, who nevertheless won 53 percent of the time during his 20 years of calling the shots in Major League dugouts. "There are a lot of very good managers and football coaches who never won that big one, and it eats at you. That's why I'd love to come back, but you can't hire yourself.

"Ideally, I'd love to land somewhere where people would listen to me and use the knowledge I've acquired over 47 years to help build a team. Somebody who wants an independent thinker. I know how to put together the necessary ingredients of a winning team. I've got a pretty good idea of what you need to win: balance-wise, speed, power and defense."

What if Baker doesn't get another chance in baseball? What if this manager who was known for smiling as well as for dangling a toothpick from his mouth has to settle on functioning as just a husband and a father -- you know, between operating as a superstar of wine, solar and gardening?

Without pausing, Baker said, "Even though I had to make myself not miss baseball, I have a higher yearning. I have a yearning for life."

CBSSPORTS.COM Reds, Todd Frazier agree to two-year, $12 million deal By Larry Hartstein / CBSSports.com

The Reds and third baseman Todd Frazier avoided arbitration by agreeing to a two-year, $12 million contract, reports CBS Sports Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Frazier had filed for $5.7 million for one year in arbitration, while the team had countered with $3.9 million.

Frazier, 28, hit .273 with a career-high 29 homers and 80 RBI last season.

Reds GM on Dayan Viciedo: ‘I don’t see it as a good fit’ By R.J. White / CBSSports.com

Reds general manager Walt Jocketty downplayed a report that his team was interested in signing outfielder Dayan Viciedo , MLB.com reports.

"We talked to his representative but I don’t know if we have a fit for him," Jocketty said. "They’re looking for more playing time. With our outfield the way it is, I don’t see it as a good fit."

Viciedo, 25, will be under team control for three more seasons when he signs with a team. He hit .231/.281/.405 with 21 home runs and 58 RBI in 523 at-bats with the White Sox in 2014 but owns an .837 career OPS against left-handers.

Reds sign Burke Badenhop, Kevin Gregg; DFA Ismael Guillon By Igor Mello / CBSSports.com

The Reds announced several roster moves on Saturday, per the team's official website.

The team signed right-hander Burke Badenhop to a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2016. In a corresponding move, Cincinnati also designated left-hander Ismael Guillon for assignment, and signed right-hander Kevin Gregg to a minor-league deal with a spring training invite.

Badenhop pitched for the Red Sox in 2014, registering a 2.29 ERA over 70 2/3 innings of work. Gregg last pitched for the Marlins in 2014. He allowed 10 earned runs, including 10 home runs in nine innings of work with Miami.

Report: Reds interested in signing Dayan Viciedo By Brandon Wise / CBSSports.com

The Reds have expressed interest in signing free agent utility man Dayan Viciedo , according to Cincinnati.com.

The White Sox designated Viciedo for assignment and was released this offseason after hitting .231 with 21 home runs and 58 RBI in 2014.

"We inquired about him," Reds general manager Walt Jocketty said. "I don't know how far it will go. We're looking at where we would play him."

ESPN.COM Todd Frazier, Reds agree to deal By Jerry Crasnick / ESPN.com

Third baseman Todd Frazier has reached agreement with the on a two-year, $12 million contract, the team announced Sunday.

The deal will pay Frazier $4.5 million in 2015, including a signing bonus, and $7.5 million in 2016.

Frazier, who turns 29 on Thursday, is a .258 career hitter with a .775 OPS in parts of four seasons with Cincinnati. He posted a career-high 29 homers and 80 RBIs in 157 games last season.

Frazier avoided a salary arbitration hearing with his new deal. He had been seeking $5.7 million in arbitration, while the Reds had countered with an offer of $3.9 million.

The new contract for Frazier leaves closer Aroldis Chapman as the only Cincinnati player still scheduled for a salary arbitration hearing.

FOXSPORTSOHIO.COM Reds sign Frazier to two-year contract By Kevin Goheen / FOX Sports

CINCINNATI -- The Reds are down to one arbitration case after announcing they have signed third baseman Todd Frazier to a two- year deal on Sunday. Frazier, who will turn 29 on Thursday, was entering his first of three arbitration-eligible seasons.

According to MLB.com's Mark Sheldon, the deal is worth $12 million; $4.5 million this season and $7.5 million in 2016. This year's salary is a compromise between the figures the Reds and Frazier's representatives exchanged for arbitration. The Reds offered $3.9 million, Frazier's agents asked for $5.7 million. Frazier made $600,000 last season.

Frazier led the Reds with 29 home runs and 80 RBI in 157 games, 43 of which he played at first base as part of the replacement rotation the Reds used while Joey Votto was injured. Frazier batted .273 with a .336 on-base percentage and .479 slugging percentage. He was a first-time National League All-Star last season and his WAR of 4.7 was sixth among all third basemen, according to FanGraphs.com.

Frazier had 163 hits to lead the Reds, including 44 multi-hit games. He added 20 stolen bases to join and Aaron Boone as the only third basemen in franchise history to have 20 homers/20 steals in a season.

The Reds started the offseason with nine players eligible for arbitration but only closer Aroldis Chapman remains from that group. The Reds have offered $6.65 million, while Chapman is seeking $8.7 million. He made $7.86 million last season. This is Chapman's second year of arbitration eligibility.

The Reds previously avoided arbitration with catcher Devin Mesoraco by signing him to a four-year, $28 million contract. Pitcher Mike Leake ($9.78 million) and Zack Cozart ($2.35 million) each signed one-year deals. Outfielder Chris Heisey and pitchers Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon were traded. Pitcher Logan Ondrusek was not tendered a contract offer and has signed to play in Japan this coming season.

Reds sign veteran bullpen help By Kevin Goheen / FOX Sports Ohio

CINCINNATI -- Reds general manager Walt Jocketty has been in search of bullpen help this offseason. He added a veteran piece Saturday by signing Burke Badenhop to a one-year deal with a mutual option for 2016.

The Reds also signed righthander Kevin Gregg to a minor league contract with an invitation to the Major League camp, but the signing of Badenhop, a native of Perrysburg who went to Bowling Green State University and turns 32 years old on Sunday, provides an experienced arm who can bridge the middle and late innings as the Reds try to get the ball to closer Aroldis Chapman.

The Reds traded , who had been the main ahead of Chapman, to Milwaukee last August. The bullpen's 4.11 ERA was next-to-last in the National League last season. Manager Bryan Price has repeatedly voiced his confidence that Sam LeCure and J.J. Hoover can bounce back from down seasons but the Reds will look at as many arms as possible to rectify their bullpen issues.

Badenhop is coming off his most productive season in a seven-year career. He appeared in 70 games for Boston with a 2.29 ERA and 1.26 WHIP. He allowed just one home run in 289 batters faced and had a career-best 1.59 ground ball-to-fly ball ratio.

Lefthander Ismael Guillon was designated for assignment to make room for Badenhop on the 40-man roster.

Gregg has saved 177 games in his career, including 33 games two years ago with the Chicago Cubs. Gregg pitched in just 12 games last season with Miami before undergoing surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow.

Reds pitchers and catchers report to Goodyear, Ariz., for the start of spring training on Feb. 18.

BLEACHER REPORT Cincinnati Reds: 5 Hyped Prospects to Watch in Spring Training By Tyler Duma / Bleacher Report

The Cincinnati Reds have a bevy of medium/high-risk and high-upside prospects in their farm system. Some of these young players will have a chance to showcase their talents against advanced competition at spring training in Goodyear, Arizona.

In this piece, we'll take a look at five of these players and why fans should keep a close eye on them throughout their stay in camp. Some names will be familiar to fans, but each of these players, regardless of his name recognition (or lack thereof), deserves a great deal of attention this spring.

The group will take us through the starting rotation and the outfield, and all five players could develop into major pieces of the Reds' blueprint for the future.

To begin, we'll take a look at a relative newcomer to the American professional ranks, Raisel Iglesias.

Raisel Iglesias (RHP)

A Cuban defector who found his way into the MLB free-agency pool last season, Raisel Iglesias chose Cincinnati as his home for the next seven years.

The 25-year-old is listed by Baseball-Reference.com as 6'2", 165 pounds, but that may be slightly generous given his initial billing of 5'11", 165 pounds, per MLB.com. Regardless of his size, Iglesias has the goods to be a solid mid-rotation starter or, at worst, a force at the back end of a contending team's bullpen.

Iglesias combines a mid-90s fastball with a sharp-breaking and an average changeup with heavy sinking action.

The right-hander is a polished pitcher and should find his way into the bullpen right out of spring training. However, in assessing his arsenal as well as his mechanics, it's clear that this young man is destined for work in a starting rotation.

Iglesias will get a year in the bullpen and have some time to work on his changeup and curveball while also helping to shore up what was really a dreadful unit for the Reds in 2014. That said, after 2015, it's hard to see a situation in which Iglesias does not wind up as a starter.

The Reds could decide to keep him in the bullpen, however, depending on what they choose to do with Aroldis Chapman when his contract comes up.

Either way, fans should be excited to see one of the brightest young stars in the Reds system this spring.

Yorman Rodriguez (OF)

Yorman Rodriguez is my favorite prospect in a Reds system that's full of .

The 22-year-old outfielder made his way through the Double-A level last year, earning a late-season call-up to the big league level. Over 119 games with Pensacola, Rodriguez managed a .262/.331/.389 triple slash with nine home runs, five triples, 20 doubles, 40 RBI, 69 runs scored and 12 stolen bases.

He has raw power for days and has the potential to serve as a 20-20 guy at the big league level. The Achilles' heel of his game has always been his potential, and that problem persisted in 2014.

Over his 119 games, he logged 502 plate appearances with a strikeout rate of 23.3 percent. That 23.3 percent rate is troubling on its own, but it's down from his career rate of 25.7 percent.

Against more advanced pitchers, Rodriguez was able to improve upon his career strikeout rate while also improving upon another weakness in his game, his walk rate. Over those same 502 plate appearances, he managed a 9.3 percent walk rate, which was good for a 2.1 percent increase over his 7.2 percent career average.

Rodriguez has all the tools to be an All-Star-caliber, five-tool player in his big league career. He just needs to put it all together in a comprehensive manner. If he does, the Reds will have their hands full trying to figure out who stays and who goes in their outfield.

Amir Garrett (LHP)

Amir Garrett is one of the biggest question marks in the Reds system, but the raw talent and potential are undeniable.

Garrett, a former high school basketball standout and player for the St. John's University men's basketball program, is a big, 6'5", 210-pound lefty with a power arm. The 22-year-old is capable of ramping his fastball up into the mid-to-high 90s with relative ease, and his curveball and changeup showed signs of life in his first full season of pro ball.

Garrett is raw, and understandably so given his relative lack of experience playing professionally (just 211 career innings).

What this California native does possess, though, is elite athleticism. He shouldn't have much difficulty in refining his mechanics, and as he does, he should continue to improve on his walk totals (3.4 BB/9 in 2014 down from 4.1 BB/9 in 2013).

If he fulfills his lofty potential, Garrett should slot in as a No. 3 starter. Even if he misses the mark, he should be able to refine his breaking ball enough to make him a competent reliever in high-leverage situations.

Watch the way Garrett attacks the strike zone against more advanced hitters. He may not log many innings, but he can tell us a lot about his development in the way he goes after opposing hitters this spring.

Robert Stephenson (RHP)

Robert Stephenson's stock took a bit of a hit in 2014, as the 21-year-old muddled through 26 starts (27 appearances), allowing a 4.75 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP over 136.1 innings pitched.

Control issues reared their ugly head, and at times, Stephenson looked timid in the way he attacked the strike zone, allowing a career worst 4.9 BB/9. Despite his disappointing walk totals, the young righty maintained high strikeout totals, averaging a solid 9.2 K/9 last year.

His arsenal signals the potential for him to develop into a front-end starter. The California native pairs a plus-plus fastball with a curveball that is currently a plus pitch and a potentially above-average changeup that is still developing.

Stephenson's question mark has been—and until he straightens things out, always will be—his control.

There is some violence and effort in his delivery, and it will be interesting to see what (if any) changes he has made this offseason. If he's able to make strides this spring and in the season that follows, Stephenson could step into the rotation as soon as mid-2015.

This spring, be sure to watch for big numbers on the radar gun and, aside from his strikeout totals, low numbers in the final box score.

Jesse Winker (OF)

Despite the presence of Robert Stephenson (who was already profiled in this piece), Jesse Winker may just be the best prospect in the Reds system.

Winker, a 21-year-old outfielder from Orlando, Florida, possesses offensive intangibles beyond his years including outstanding plate discipline and a refined approach that could make him an on-base-machine as soon as mid-to-late 2015.

Calling him an on-base-machine isn't a knock on his hit tool though—it seems to be used that way when referencing Joey Votto—as Winker's hit tool is arguably the best of any left-handed hitter in the minors.

Last season, Winker had a banner year despite missing a big chunk of the second half with a wrist injury. In just 74 games, he managed a .287/.399/.518 batting line with 15 home runs, 20 doubles, 57 RBI, 57 runs scored and a ratio of 68 strikeouts to 54 walks.

The young outfielder managed those impressive numbers despite missing nearly half the year, but what he did in the Arizona Fall League was equally impressive.

While coming back from his wrist injury, Winker logged 68 at-bats in the AFL, winning the league's batting title while posting a .338/.440/.559 batting line with three home runs, four doubles, 18 RBI, 14 runs scored and a ratio of 17 strikeouts to 14 walks.

Winker's bat has never been in question, but some believe that his defensive abilities will present a challenge at the big league level. These concerns seem overstated though, as Winker has proved to be a competent in the minors.

The Olympia High School product displays solid instincts and a purposeful first step, which generally allows him to take efficient routes to the ball. He's not going to win any Gold Gloves, but he's not going to cost the Reds games either.

Keep an eye on Winker this spring and you might just catch a glimpse of a future All-Star in the making.

Cincinnati Reds Have What It Takes to Win the NL Central By Heath Clary / Bleacher Report

Coming into 2014, the Cincinnati Reds had won at least 90 games in each of the previous two seasons. Unfortunately for them, they struggled mightily down the stretch last year en route to a disappointing 76-86 record and a fourth-place finish in their division.

The Reds were in the thick of the playoff race for most of the season, only 1.5 games behind the Brewers at the All-Star Break, but they were a putrid 25-42 in the second half of the season. Their struggles included several long losing streaks as well as multiple injuries to top-tier players.

First baseman Joey Votto played in only 62 games, and he wasn't his usual stellar self when he was on the field. He hit a career-low .255 with only six home runs and 23 RBI, but he had knee surgery in the offseason and is feeling better, per Kevin Goheen of Fox Sports Ohio.

"I feel like I've made progress and I feel like I'm heading in the right direction," Votto told Goheen. "I would say it's coming along and I would say that I feel like I've made a lot of really good progress in the right direction."

It is unknown whether Votto can return to 100 percent, but even if he cannot gain full strength of his lower body and he doesn't drive the ball out of the park like he has done in the past, he can still be a tremendous asset. He is the best in baseball at getting on base, and his power should not hinder his ability to draw walks and help his team score runs.

Fangraphs' The Steamer projects Votto to lead the league in on-base percentage to go along with 18 home runs and 64 RBI. While that is not exactly optimal production, especially for a corner infielder, he impacts the game more than his numbers might suggest with his defense, savvy and leadership.

But Votto wasn't the only Red who battled injury, as the team had 15 different players register a total of 19 appearances on the disabled list. All-Stars Jay Bruce and Brandon Phillips were also hampered by injuries in 2014.

Phillips missed over a month after suffering a torn thumb ligament diving for a ball, and Bruce battled knee troubles and hit a paltry .217.

Both those linchpins are back and looking for rebound seasons. The Reds activated Phillips in August, and he finished the season by hitting .295 in September. Bruce, on the other hand, stumbled to the finish. He hit only .213 in the final month of the season, but manager Bryan Price had only positive things to say about the 27-year-old right fielder.

"I think he'd prefer not to be asked about his knee because he feels he's 100 percent," Price said via John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer. "It was a part of 2014 and will not be part of 2015. At this point, it's a non-issue."

And while 2014 was overall a bleak year, there were plenty of bright spots, including two players who had breakout seasons. Third baseman Todd Frazier and catcher Devin Mesoraco each earned their first trip to the All-Star Game. Frazier hit 29 home runs and drove in 80, while Mesoraco launched 25 round-trippers and recorded an outstanding 149 OPS+ according to Baseball-Reference.

In addition, there's the curious case of Billy Hamilton. In his rookie season last year, he displayed the blazing speed that scouts have been drooling over since he played in the minors. His 56 stolen bases were tied for second in the league, but he finished the year in a massive slump and ended with a .250 average and an unimpressive .292 on base percentage. He also led the league with 23 caught stealing

According to John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Hamilton has spent this offseason getting stronger, improving his baserunning and trying to hit more line drives in an attempt to perform well at the plate for an entire season. If he can find a way to raise his OBP to the .325 range, he could steal more bases and score more runs.

The Reds also acquired Marlon Byrd from the Phillies right before New Year's Day. Despite his age (37), Byrd had one of his best seasons last year. He hit .264 with 25 home runs and 85 RBI, and he should provide even more pop to the middle of the order.

Check out the projected lineup that the Reds will send out on Opening Day, per B/R's Joel Reuter: 1 CF Billy Hamilton 2 3B Todd Frazier 3 1B Joey Votto 4 C Devin Mesoraco 5 RF Jay Bruce 6 LF Marlon Byrd 7 2B Brandon Phillips 8 SS Zack Cozart 9 Pitcher

They have solid pitching as well. Last year, the Reds' starting rotation was third in the majors in ERA (3.59). And even though they traded away both Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon this offseason, the staff is still in good hands.

Young left-hander Tony Cingrani will step into the rotation, and he has the tools to perform at a high level. Johnny Cueto, Mike Leake and Homer Bailey return, giving the Reds plenty of experience starting games.

The bullpen had the fifth-highest ERA in the majors in 2014, and after Aroldis Chapman, they really don't have any quality arms. Sam LeCure, J.J. Hoover and Manny Parra must have better seasons this year for the Reds to have a chance to contend for a playoff berth.

With the lineup they have, they are going to score plenty of runs if their stars can stay healthy. If the pitching staff can endure the loss of Latos and Simon, there is no reason that Cincinnati shouldn't be able to challenge the Cardinals' two-year streak of winning the NL Central.

TELEGRAPH-FORUM Cincinnati Reds’ recovery tied to health of Votto, Bruce By Steve Gardner / The Telegraph-Forum

After posting back-to-back playoff appearances, the Cincinnati Reds took a step backward in 2014 — finishing 76-86 and with 14 fewer wins than they had in 2013.

An offense that ranked 28th in scoring was a major reason why. So this offseason, improving the everyday lineup was the team's No. 1 priority.

"We felt we needed a right-handed in the middle of our lineup," General Manager Walt Jocketty said. "We were looking at either a player like that or a potential on-base guy to hit behind (leadoff man Billy) Hamilton."

But to do it, the club had to clear payroll space.

After trading starting pitchers Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon, the Reds finally were able to add that impact bat in veteran slugger Marlon Byrd.

"We've had an interest in Marlon for a couple years," Jocketty said. "We just felt he would be a great influence on our younger players, not that much different than (former third baseman) Scott Rolen was when we brought him in — a true professional who plays the game the right way and leads by example."

Byrd, 37, hit a career-high 25 home runs this past season for the Philadelphia Phillies. He gives the Reds something that has been in great demand this offseason — right-handed power. At the same time, he strikes out frequently and won't do much to address the Reds' need to improve their on-base percentage after finishing 29th in the MLB in 2014.

If the offense is going to make significant improvement, the Reds will need first baseman Joey Votto and right fielder Jay Bruce fully healthy.

A leg injury limited Votto to 62 games, and Jocketty said Bruce probably came back too soon from knee surgery, which led to career lows in batting average (.217) and home runs (18).

With those two lefty sluggers joining Byrd, Hamilton and 2014 All-Stars Todd Frazier and Devin Mesoraco, the Reds are optimistic their offensive woes are finished.

The pitching staff revolves around ace Johnny Cueto, who finished second to Clayton Kershaw in the 2014 National League voting after tying for the league lead in strikeouts with 242.

But with four of the five starters from this past year's rotation (including Cueto) entering the final year of their contracts, the Reds had difficult decisions to make this offseason.

"We needed to create some payroll flexibility, so we could add a guy like Byrd and try to do some other things," Jocketty said. "We felt that we could probably run the risk of keeping a couple of them, but we felt it was best to do something with a couple of them now."

The result was a pair of trades that shipped Latos to the and Simon to the for a collection of prospects.

One of them, right-handed pitcher Anthony DeSclafani, appeared in 13 games for the Marlins in 2014 and posted a 6.27 ERA in 33 innings. DeSclafani, 24, is the front-runner to fill one of the rotation vacancies, but he only has 591/3 innings of minor league experience above Class AA.

Jocketty said the team is looking at lower-tier starting pitchers on the free agent market but will focus mostly on potential bullpen and bench upgrades.

Closer Aroldis Chapman (36 saves, 2.00 ERA) is a given after striking out more than half of the batters he faced (106 Ks in 202 plate appearances) for a record rate of 17.7 strikeouts per nine innings. But his dominance only helps to illustrate the rest of the bullpen's shortcomings.

The Reds led the majors with 38 one-run losses in 2014 as the other relievers combined for a 4.42 ERA. In the second half of the season, they were a collective 1-16.

"The bullpen is a big concern because it really hurt us last year and cost us a lot of games we should have won," Jocketty said.

The one wild card for the pitching staff could be 24-year-old right-hander Raisel Iglesias. Like Chapman, Iglesias defected from Cuba. But he isn't as advanced as Chapman was when he signed. By midseason, Iglesias could be an important addition, either as a starter or a reliever.

POSITION-BY-POSITION

*Denotes prospect

Catcher: Turning full-time catching duties over to Mesoraco was one of the best moves the Reds made in 2014. Although he missed time early in the season, he led all catchers with 25 home runs and was named to the NL All-Star team. Veteran Brayan Pena alternated between catcher and first base and is a reliable option at either position. Switch-hitting Tucker Barnhart, 24, made his MLB debut in 2014 and has shown a decent batting eye in his minor league career. However, he has yet to display much power. Depth chart: Mesoraco, Pena, *Barnhart.

First base: Votto, the 2010 NL MVP and four-time All-Star, had the worst season of his career in 2014, battling a leg injury that limited him to 62 games. He managed to get on base at a .390 clip, but his power was nowhere to be found. A healthy Votto in the No. 3 spot is critical to the Reds' success on offense — both now and in the future. He's signed through 2023. Depth chart: Votto, Pena, Frazier, Donald Lutz, , Neftali Soto.

Second base: At 33, Brandon Phillips seems to be on the downside of his career. A torn thumb ligament sidelined him for 33 games in the middle of the season. When he came back, he hit one home run over the entire second half and ended up with his worst season in a Reds uniform. If there was a silver lining to Phillips' injury, it was the job Kristopher Negron did filling in. He proved to be a capable short-term replacement, and the experience he gained at both second and third will make him a valuable utility man in 2015 — possibly at veteran Skip Schumaker's expense. Depth chart: Phillips, Negron, Schumaker.

Shortstop: Defensive metrics credited Zack Cozart with the best season of his career, but his numbers on offense were the polar opposite. His starting job even could be in jeopardy as a result. Eugenio Suarez, 23, came over from the Tigers in the Simon trade. A;though he might not be as steady as Cozart on defense, he has shown extra-base pop in the minors. Depth chart: Cozart, Negron, * Suarez.

Third base: Perhaps the brightest spot for the Reds on offense this past season was the breakout performance from Frazier. He rebounded from a disappointing sophomore season to lead the team in home runs and runs and earn his first All-Star berth. Showing his versatility, Frazier stole a career-best 20 bases and also made 37 starts at first base while Votto was on the disabled list. Depth chart: Frazier, Negron, Satin.

Left field: The Reds had a .233/.288/.339 slash line and a major-league-low 51 runs from their left fielders this past season. That's why the trade for Byrd was almost a necessity. He has enjoyed a late-career renaissance as a swing-for-the-fences hitter. Youngster Lutz and free agent signee Brennan Boesch likely will compete for a backup spot with top prospect Jesse Winker not far away. Depth chart: Byrd, Lutz, Schumaker, Boesch, *Winker.

Center field: Hamilton won a starting job in spring training and was the front-runner for NL rookie of the year until he faded down the stretch. One of the fastest players in the majors, he can cover tremendous ground in the outfield and stole 56 bases out of the leadoff spot. However, his .292 on-base percentage must improve for him to be the offensive catalyst the Reds need. Schumaker's ability to play second base and center is an advantage in his bid to win the fifth outfield spot. Depth chart: Hamilton, Schumaker, Jason Bourgeois.

Right field: A knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery in May took a toll on Bruce's power numbers as he failed to hit at least 20 home runs for the first time in his seven major league seasons. An offseason of rehab and recovery should help him rebound. Bourgeois, 33, can play all three outfield positions, but he'll have to off youngster Yorman Rodriguez, who made his major league debut in September at 22. Depth chart: Bruce, Bourgeois, *Rodriguez, *Kyle Waldrop.

Starting pitchers: Cueto is coming off of the best season of his career, one in which he led the NL with 34 starts and held hitters to a MLB-low .194 batting average. Homer Bailey had a torn flexor mass tendon near his forearm repaired in September but is on target with his rehab program and should be ready for the start of the season. Mike Leake has been a reliable No. 5 starter, but with the departures of Latos and Simon he'll move up to the No. 3 spot. Shoulder issues ended Tony Cingrani's 2014 season in June, but he should be ready for spring training. The Reds also have a promising group of pitchers in the minor leagues and enough depth to trade one (Ben Lively) to acquire left fielder Byrd. Depth chart: RHP Cueto, RHP Bailey, RHP Leake, LHP Cingrani, RHP DeSclafani, LHP David Holmberg, RHP Dylan Axelrod, RHP Daniel Corcino, RHP Matt Magill, *RHP Iglesias, *RHP Robert Stephenson, *RHP Michael Lorenzen.

Bullpen: Chapman is one of the majors' top closers, but his supporting cast led him down last season as the Reds finished 26th in bullpen ERA (4.11). Primary setup man Jonathan Broxton (1.80 ERA) was traded in July, so it will be critical for the Reds to find dependable arms for the seventh and eighth innings. Sean Marshall is returning from June shoulder surgery and should be ready for spring training. J.J. Hoover has a power arm (10.8 strikeouts per nine innings) but will need to regain his confidence after going 1- 10 with a 4.88 ERA. One or more relievers could be added. Depth chart: LHP Chapman, RHP Sam LeCure, RHP Hoover, LHP Marshall, LHP Manny Parra, RHP Jumbo Diaz, RHP Pedro Villareal, RHP Axelrod, *RHP Iglesias.

PROSPECTS TO WATCH

RHP Robert Stephenson: A first-round pick in 2011 out of high school, Stephenson, 21, posted a 7-10 record and 4.74 ERA at Class AA Pensacola (Fla.), where he was one of the youngest players in the Southern League. He has a big-time fastball that can touch 100 mph, but his control was a bit erratic as he walked 4.9 batters per nine innings. He'll likely return to Pensacola but should soon move up to Class AAA.

OF Jesse Winker: The organization's top hitting prospect, Winker batted .317/.426/.580 with 13 homers at high Class A Bakersfield (Calif.) to earn a promotion to the Southern League. He started in left field for the USA in the All-Star Futures Game, but saw his season end early when he injured his wrist in a car accident. He returned to lead the Arizona Fall League with a .999 OPS. Winker, 21, is expected to start at Class AAA Louisville but could reach the majors this year.

OF-1B Kyle Waldrop: Added to the team's 40-man roster in November, Waldrop posted a combined .338/.385/.516 line for Bakersfield and Pensacola. He hit .300 in the Arizona Fall League while seeing action at first base after playing mostly in the outfield during the regular season. He has been slightly overshadowed by Winker as they've progressed through the minors together, but at age 23, Waldrop is a solid prospect in his own right.

RHP Raisel Iglesias: Iglesias did not play in 2014 after defecting from Cuba, but the Reds have been impressed by what they've seen after signing him to a seven-year, $27 million contract in June. Iglesias, 24, throws his fastball in the low- to mid-90s. He also has a forkball and occasionally will alter his arm angle to further deceive hitters. A reliever in Cuba, Iglesias is projected as a candidate for the starting rotation, possibly at some point in 2015.

CINCINNATI BUSINESS COURIER Cincinnati Reds re-sign Frazier, add to bullpen By Cincinnati Business Courier

The Cincinnati Reds have signed a new agreement with third baseman Todd Frazier and added to their bullpen, ESPN reports.

Frazier signed a two-year, $12 million contract that pays him $4.5 million in 2015, including a signing bonus, and $7.5 million in 2016.

The deal, which was announced on Sunday, means Frazier will avoid a salary arbitration hearing after he had asked for $5.7 million and the franchise countered with $3.9 million.

In addition, the Reds added a pair of right-handed pitchers to the bullpen.

The team signed a one-year deal with reliever Burke Badenhop that guarantees him $2.5 million. The 32-year-old pitcher was 0-3 with a 2.29 ERA and one save in 70 relief appearances for Boston last year. He will get $1 million this year, which includes a mutual option for 2016 at $4 million with a $1.5 million buyout along with performance bonuses.

The Reds also signed right-handed pitcher Kevin Gregg to a minor league contract. Gregg had a 10.00 ERA in 10 games last year with the Miami Marlins after starting the year in the minor leagues and having surgery in August to remove bone chips from his elbow. He would get a $1.5 million one-year contract and the chance to earn performance bonuses if he is added to the 40-man roster.

The deals leave closer Aroldis Chapman as the only Reds player still scheduled for a salary arbitration hearing.

ASSOCIATED PRESS Reds add RHPs Burke Badenhop and Kevin Gregg By The Associated Press

CINCINNATI —

The Cincinnati Reds have added a pair of right-handed pitchers to their bullpen, agreeing to a one-year deal with Burke Badenhop that guarantees him $2.5 million and giving Kevin Gregg a minor league contract.

Badenhop, who turns 32 on Monday, was 0-3 with a 2.29 ERA and one save in 70 relief appearances for Boston last year. He is 18- 23 in seven big league seasons that included stints with Florida (2008-11), Tampa Bay (2012) and Milwaukee (2013).

Badenhop gets $1 million this year under Saturday's agreement, which includes a mutual option for 2016 at $4 million with a $1.5 million buyout. He can earn $250,000 in performance bonuses for games pitched: $50,000 for 45, and $100,000 apiece for 50 and 55. If the option is exercised, he also could earn the bonuses in 2016.

Gregg, 36, had a 10.00 ERA in 10 games last year in his second stint with the Marlins, when he started the season in Miami's minor league system and then needed surgery in August to remove bone chips from his pitching elbow. He is 30-44 in 12 seasons, also pitching for the Angels (2003-06), the Marlins (2007-08), the Chicago Cubs (2009, '13), Toronto (2010) and Baltimore (2011-12).

He would get a $1.5 million, one-year contract if added to the 40-man roster and have the chance to earn performance bonuses.

Reds, Frazier avoid arbitration By The Associated Press

All-Star third baseman Todd Frazier and the Cincinnati Reds have agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract, avoiding arbitration.

The Reds announced the deal Sunday on Twitter.

Frazier, who turns 29 on Thursday, gets a $1.5 million signing bonus, a $3 million salary this season and $7.5 million in 2016. He had asked for a one-year deal worth $5.7 million.

In four major league seasons, Frazier is hitting .258 with a .325 on-base percentage. He has 73 homers and 235 RBIs. He had career highs of 29 homers, 80 RBIs and 20 stolen bases last season and was selected to his first All-Star game.

The Reds have one unsigned arbitration-eligible player: closer Aroldis Chapman. They haven’t had a player go to an arbitration hearing since 2004.

Reds pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training in Goodyear, Ariz. on Feb. 18. The full squad reports Feb. 23.

Reds and Todd Frazier agree to 2-year, $12 million contract By The Associated Press

CINCINNATI —

All-Star third baseman Todd Frazier and the Cincinnati Reds have agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract, avoiding arbitration.

The Reds announced the deal Sunday on Twitter.

Frazier, who turns 29 on Thursday, gets a $1.5 million signing bonus, a $3 million salary this season and $7.5 million in 2016. He had asked for a one-year deal worth $5.7 million.

In four major league seasons, Frazier is hitting .258 with a .325 on-base percentage. He has 73 homers and 235 RBIs. He had career highs of 29 homers, 80 RBIs and 20 stolen bases last season and was selected to his first All-Star game.

The Reds have one unsigned arbitration-eligible player: closer Aroldis Chapman. They haven't had a player go to an arbitration hearing since 2004.

TRANSACTIONS Date Transaction 02/07/15 Cincinnati Reds designated LHP Ismael Guillon for assignment. Cincinnati Reds signed free agent RHP Burke Badenhop. Cincinnati Reds signed free agent RHP Kevin Gregg to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training. 02/06/15 Chicago Cubs invited non-roster RHP Armando Rivero to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster CF Albert Almora to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster 3B Kris Bryant to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster RHP Pierce Johnson to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster RHP Corey Black to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster LHP Hunter Cervenka to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster SS Addison Russell to spring training. Chicago Cubs invited non-roster C Kyle Schwarber to spring training. sent Yohan Flande outright to Albuquerque Isotopes. Atlanta Braves traded 3B Edward Salcedo to for RHP Bryton Trepagnier. Mike Olt changed number to 20. Tsuyoshi Wada changed number to 18. signed free agent RF Nate Schierholtz to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.