In a bit of a surprise, it’s been reported that Scott Feldman has been named the opening day starter for the Cincinnati Reds–with Brandon Finnegan tabbed for Day 2.
Since Finnegan started 31 games for the Reds last season, which is far more than any other healthy pitcher on the squad, many assumed he’d get to start things off for 2017. However, Feldman got the nod despite only making 5 starts in 2016.
If you’re looking for a silver lining, this will be Feldman’s 3rd opening day. In his previous two starts, his teams won both games, and he carried a 1.98 ERA.
2017 Reds Opening Day Lineup
With the starter named and it being the first day of spring, I’m going to make my first stab at what I expect the opening day lineup to look like. Of course, things can change between now and then, but this is what I’m hoping for:
CF-Billy Hamilton
2B-Jose Peraza
1B-Joey Votto
LF-Adam Duvall
RF-Scott Schebler
3B-Eugenio Suarez
SS-Zack Cozart
C-Devin Mesoraco
P-Scott Feldman
With only one healthy returning pitcher who started more than 10 games in 2017, the easy money is on the Reds competing to get a Top 5 pick again this year. But the Reds are loaded with talented youth, and it’s not impossible for a team to catch lightning in a bottle.
Plus, the bullpen should actually be a strength this year–unlike in 2016, when the Reds’ relievers were setting all the wrong records.
Follow on Twitter @BleedinCincyRed.
