The Cincinnati Reds are still very much in the race for the postseason. Although they are currently in fourth place in the NL Central, they are only five games out of the last Wild Card spot. The team could use some reinforcements, so GM Nick Krall has been looking for reinforcements. The team signed infielder Amed Rosario from the Los Angeles Dodgers on a waiver contract on Sunday.

The veteran center fielder has already spent time with the Dodgers (who brought him back at the trade deadline) and the Tampa Bay Rays this season, so Cincinnati will be his third stop in 2024. The Reds have been plagued by numerous injuries, so depth at the major league level has been crucial. Based on his play so far this season, Rosario seems to be a smart choice for Cincinnati, as he currently has a batting average above .300 on the season.

His two home runs and 28 RBIs may not be the best stats, but an OPS of .746 is a solid stat. He’s also a good defender who can play both second baseman and shortstop. So it seems like a good idea for the veteran to back up Jonathan India at second base and Elly de la Cruz at shortstop. Can he help the Reds get back into the playoffs?

Amed Rosario and the Reds want to make an unlikely playoff appearance

Winning their division is unlikely at this point, as the Reds are currently 11 games behind the league-leading Milwaukee Brewers. But the final wild card spot is not far away. At this point in the season, five games is by no means an insurmountable deficit. If Cincinnati can get healthy and get on a winning streak, they could definitely make a playoff run this season. Last season was a great example of what happens when a team on the run goes to the playoffs. Both World Series participants, the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers, made it as wild cards.

Rosario can add strength to a lineup that can utilize his skills. He can get on base and contribute at multiple spots in the batting order. Whether he’s at the top or bottom, getting on base is always a useful skill to have. His versatility on defense is also a huge plus, as the Reds value players who can play multiple positions, such as the currently injured Matt McLain and corner infielder Jeimer Candelario.

As Cincinnati looks to secure an unlikely playoff berth, veterans like Rosario and Candelario should be a good influence on a young team. De la Cruz, India, outfielder Spencer Steer and others have plenty of talent and are getting better every day. Experience is a great equalizer. Hopefully that experience will allow Rosario to help the Reds get back to the postseason.