The Reds announced on Friday that they’ve signed veteran utility player Garrett Hampson to a one-year major league deal, and he’ll immediately join the big league roster. To make room, they optioned outfielder Rece Hinds to Triple-A Louisville and moved right-hander Carson Spiers from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL. The team also officially activated ace Hunter Greene from the IL, as expected, after optioning righty Lyon Richardson to Louisville the day prior to clear space.
Hampson, 30, began the season with the Diamondbacks after signing a minor league contract during the offseason. He made the team out of spring training but saw limited action, appearing in just 41 plate appearances over six weeks and batting .167/.359/.167. While he drew 10 walks, he managed only five singles in 30 at-bats and struggled with his contact quality. Arizona designated him for assignment and released him last week.
Cincinnati becomes Hampson’s fifth MLB team in four years. After spending the first five seasons of his career with the Rockies, who drafted him in the third round in 2016, he has since played for the Marlins, Royals, Diamondbacks, and now the Reds. Offensively, he’s struggled, hitting only .237/.308/.323 in 750 plate appearances since the start of the 2022 season. Still, his speed and ability to play nearly every position on the field make him a valuable depth piece — especially for a Reds team dealing with numerous injuries.
The Reds are currently without Noelvi Marte, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Jeimer Candelario, Jake Fraley, and Tyler Callihan (the latter on the 60-day IL). Combined with the offseason trade of Jonathan India, these injuries have depleted what was once a deep infield. The current infield setup includes Spencer Steer at first, Matt McLain at second, Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, and Santiago Espinal at third. Gavin Lux has versatility but has been used primarily in the outfield this season, and with the team also carrying three catchers, roster flexibility is at a premium.
Hampson brings valuable infield coverage as the Reds await the return of several injured players. He also adds a right-handed bat to an outfield group that includes Lux, Austin Hays, TJ Friedl, and Will Benson.
