Cincinnati Reds Release Former 1st-Round Pick Infielder

The Cincinnati Reds recently made the decision to part ways with infielder Kevin Newman, turning him into a free agent.

Newman's release came shortly after his reinstatement from the injured list on September 25th, following a stint where he was designated for assignment by the team.

RELEASED: #Reds have released INF Kevin Newman.

— MLB Transaction Tracker (@MLBMovesTracker) September 27, 2023

During his tenure with the Reds, Newman had primarily functioned as a utility infielder, showcasing his versatility by playing multiple infield positions.

While his offensive performance remained consistent with his career statistics, the Reds' choice to release him was driven by an excess of infielders on the active roster.

Over his six-year career, Newman holds a .259/.304/.358 triple-slash line, with 23 home runs, 171 RBIs, 38 stolen bases, and 189 runs scored across 505 games played.

It's worth noting that Newman had been acquired by the Reds from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the preceding offseason.

The #Reds today released IF Kevin Newman.

— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) September 27, 2023

As Newman ventures into free agency, his prospects may be influenced by his performance over the recent seasons.

With an OPS of just .619 spanning the last four years, he could potentially find himself considering minor-league contract offers in the upcoming offseason.

Despite a solid track record as a utility infielder, his future in the MLB remains uncertain, and his next move will likely depend on the interest from other teams in need of his skills.

Newman is a former first-round pick (19th overall) by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2015 MLB Draft. Photo Credit: Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports