Cincinnati Reds- 2013 Preview

2012 Results- 97-65 (1st in NL Central, Lost NLDS to SF 3-2)

The Reds were a great team last year. How great? Well, they were the 2nd best team in all of MLB, falling short by 1 single game. Still, the Reds captured the NL Central title with little work. Through out the season the Reds showcased their strength, without Joey Votto for 63 games. Ryan Ludwick really shined in his opportunity to play "almost" everyday, taking Votto's place in a sense by offensive production.

The Reds were set to go to the NLCS in 2012 by going up 2 games to none on the San Francisco Giants. Sadly, the Reds just couldn't finish them off and they lost the series 3 games to 2. The Reds are strong and are set up well for 2013 but it still must sting to Reds fans to come so close, and fail.

How does 2013 look?

Offseason Moves: ARRIVALS

3B/1B Jack Hannahan - Free Agent (CLE)
IF Jason Donald - Trade (CLE)
OF Shin-Soo Choo - Trade (CLE)

DEPARTURES

C Dioner Navarro - Free Agent (CHC)
SS Didi Gregorius - Trade (CLE)
OF Drew Stubbs - Trade (CLE)
RHP Ryan Madson - Free Agent (LAA

Simply put, the Reds haven't done much this offseason. They haven't really improved nor have they gotten worse. They simply did a couple good moves to even out the team. Ryan Madson didn't do anything for the Reds in 2012 so his production, or lack of it, won't be missed at all. The trade to get Jason Donald and Shin-Soo Choo was a good one for the Reds but I won't say that it was a major improvement over what they had. The Reds also didn't really lose anyone that was a major part for them moving forward.

2013 Prediction- 96-66 (1st in NL Central)

The Reds are going to be a force in 2013 and the NL Central crown is there's to lose. It's that simple, as long as the Reds don't fall apart completely the title is for them. Another season of 90 wins is also something I see for the Reds, they are going to be about the exact same. The Reds really need to work on their playoff play. I know that might sound odd but seriously, the Reds could have gone fairly fair in 2012 but managed to fail to close it out. Being able to stay healthy will also be a big thing for the Reds. If everyone stays in good shape, then that 96 win guess of mine can easily be a 101 or more.

There isn't much more to add about the Reds. There was not many down points for the Reds, besides Votto's health. The Reds are going to be a major player in 2013 and they could go very far in the playoffs.