Josh Harrison has opted out of his minor league deal with the Reds, according to C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic. He joined the team last month under an agreement that allowed him to opt out if not on the roster by March 21. With the news that he would not make the team, Harrison will now return to free agency.
Harrison faced a challenging path to make the Reds’ roster, as the team boasts a wealth of talented young players. Despite recent setbacks like Noelvi Marté’s 80-game PED suspension and TJ Friedl’s significant time on the sidelines due to a wrist fracture, the Reds still have numerous options to fill out their lineup and roster.
Players like Jeimer Candelario, Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand can handle infield duties, while Spencer Steer, Jake Fraley, and Will Benson are available for the outfield, and Tyler Stephenson behind the plate. Jonathan India can play a regular role, either as a designated hitter or rotating through different defensive positions. Luke Maile and Stuart Fairchild are likely to secure bench spots, with additional options like Bubba Thompson, Nick Martini, Rece Hinds, and Jacob Hurtubise also on the roster. Non-roster invitees such as Tony Kemp, Mike Ford, Mark Mathias, and Erik González could be considered for roster spots as well.
Harrison would have been part of this latter group of players but has struggled with form recently. He posted a .204/.263/.291 slash line for the Phillies last season before being released in August. After signing a minor league deal with the Rangers, he hit .222/.323/.370 in six games before opting out. In eight spring training games with the Reds this year, he has a .250/.250/.350 slash line.
Despite his recent struggles, Harrison was a solid utility option in the majors not too long ago. Between 2020 and 2022, he played 290 games, hitting .270/.332/.390 with a wRC+ of 102. While his 5.4% walk rate was modest, he kept his strikeouts in check at 14.7%. He also displayed versatility by playing every position except catcher.
Now, Harrison will seek another opportunity in the open market, with his versatility potentially aiding him in finding a new team. While he is primarily an option at second base, third base, and the outfield corners, he has limited experience at first base, shortstop, and center field. With several teams finalizing their roster cuts and veterans triggering opt-outs in the coming weeks, there could be opportunities for Harrison to land a new role.
