Reds buzzing about Soto: After trading top prospect Yonder Alonso to San Diego during the offseason, the Cincinnati Reds have turned to another player as the future at first base behind Joey Votto: Neftali Soto. The 23-year-old Soto clubbed 30 home runs with 76 RBI last season for Triple-A Carolina despite missing a month with a fractured left wrist. "That's one reason why you can trade an Alonso when you have [Soto] coming up," Reds manager Dusty Baker told MLB.com. "The guy has tremendous power and he's getting better. He works hard. He's an outstanding first baseman. I see him in the weight room every day. He's come a long way in a short period of time." (Updated 03/04/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/24/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Soto was selected in the 2007 MLB Draft as a shortstop, but has since moved around the infield before settling at first base. "I signed as a shortstop, moved to third base, caught," Soto said. "[First base] feels easier. When I was young, I used to play first, and then they moved me. I think that helped me." He has made an early impression this spring and hit a home run in his first Cactus League game against Cleveland on Saturday. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on the rising prospect and consider him an option in long-term keeper leagues. (Updated 03/04/2012).
02/01/2012 11:35 2012 Fantasy outlooks: Cincinnati Reds
The Reds rebuilt a significant portion of their roster in the hopes of winning now. Our Al Melchior breaks down Cincinnati's Fantasy options for owners to consider on Draft Day.