DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Is Hamilton on the horizon?

Cincinnati Reds

With an awkward slide on opening day, Ryan Ludwick's (OF, CIN) season is suddenly in jeopardy. Ludwick had surgery to repair torn cartilage in his shoulder and is expected to miss 13-14 weeks.  And when Ludwick returns, his ability to generate his usual power is in question. So, what are the Reds' options?

The immediate answer is Chris Heisey (OF, CIN), who will get most of the AB in the short term. Heisey hit 18 HR in 279 AB for the Reds in 2011 with a .254 BA and 157 PX, but his PX plummeted to 90 last season, and he hit only seven homers in 347 AB. A 7% hr/f rate appears to have been the culprit, but it may take some time to see which Heisey shows up. This spring Heisey had 17 hits in 62 AB, with four doubles and...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we say "hello" to yet another San Diego catcher, welcome another catcher back to L.A., try to read the playing time tea leaves in Arizona and Colorado, and check in on two Giants' rookies who are playing at a high level.
Sep 5 2026 3:06am
Maikel Garcia's injury has opened up some playing time in KC, with a quartet of players who might take advantage. Plus, a new position for a CHW prospect and a look around the division.
Sep 3 2026 3:05am
Ben Joyce has been locked in as the Angels closer of late, but who's next if some control issues linger for Joyce?
Sep 2 2026 3:07am
Trevor Story is expected to be Boston's primary shortstop upon his return from the IL, but could his opportunity be short-lived if his season-long struggles continue? Plus, a potential SB source in TB, SP in BAL/BOS, and a post-hype prospect making waves for NYY.
Sep 1 2026 3:05am

Tools