The Cincinnati Reds have acquired infielder/outfielder Amed Rosario from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Rosario, who is 28 years old and set to become a free agent after this season, was recently designated for assignment by the Dodgers. The Reds successfully claimed him off waivers.
Unlike many waiver claims, this one involves a player who has performed well this season. Rosario is hitting .305/.331/.415 with an OPS+ of 113. Despite this, the Dodgers decided to part ways with him. Rosario’s salary for this season is only $1.5 million, a manageable amount even for the Reds.
Rosario spent much of the 2024 season with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he batted .307/.331/.417 in 76 games, including 17 doubles, three triples, and two home runs. He was traded to the Dodgers at the deadline in exchange for a 28-year-old minor league reliever. With Los Angeles, he played in just five games and went 3-for-11 (.273).
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This season, Rosario has played multiple positions, including right field, second base, third base, and shortstop. He also has some experience in left and center field. Although he lacks significant power, he makes contact frequently, with a strikeout rate of just 17%. However, he doesn’t walk much, having only eight walks in 287 plate appearances. His offensive value largely depends on his ability to get hits.
Defensively, Rosario provides the Reds with flexibility, as he can cover various infield positions and both corner outfield spots. As a right-handed hitter, he could serve as a platoon option for Will Benson or Jake Fraley in the outfield corners. In the infield, he offers the possibility of rotating players to the designated hitter role or giving regulars a rest.
Cincinnati had an open spot on the 40-man roster, so no additional moves were needed to accommodate Rosario.
