The universal designated hitter (DH) rule will significantly impact the Cincinnati Reds in 2022, offering several strategic advantages for their roster construction and player utilization.

Key Benefits for the Reds:

• Multiple players can benefit from DH duties, particularly Mike Moustakas and Eugenio Suarez
• Allows better management of defensive limitations while keeping powerful bats in the lineup
• Creates flexibility in the lineup and helps manage player health

Primary DH Candidates:

Mike Moustakas

• Likely to see significant DH time
• Can focus on hitting while managing injury concerns
• Reduced fielding duties may help maintain health

Eugenio Suarez

• Coming off a challenging defensive season
• Could benefit from reduced fielding pressure
• Potential for offensive bounce-back with DH opportunities

Additional DH Options:

• Aristides Aquino: Power-hitting outfielder who hit 19 home runs in 2019
• Nicholas Castellanos: Potential free agent target who could split time between OF and DH
• Other roster players needing occasional rest from fielding duties

Strategy Implementation:

The Reds are expected to implement a rotating DH system rather than designating one primary player. This approach allows for:

• Strategic rest for position players
• Matchup-based lineup optimization
• Better injury prevention
• Maximum roster flexibility

This new rule provides the Reds with additional lineup options while potentially helping key players stay healthy and productive throughout the season.

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