Yonder Alonso Working at Thirdbase

Yonder Alonso is learning to play thirdbase.

The Reds want his bat in the lineup but as a firstbaseman, he is blocked by MVP Joey Votto.   With Scott Rolen recovering from shoulder surgery, Alonso has an opportunity to get more playing time.

His two-game stint in the Wrigley Field outfield this weekend pointed out his shortcomings in the garden.

"I don't know if Alonso will be back in left field," Dusty Baker said.  "Not in the near future."
Game situations could come up that dictate Alonso's return to left but the Reds plan to avoid it, apparently.

Todd Frazier is covering thirdbase for Rolen now but Frazier can play the outfield fairly well so the Reds are trying to maximize the offensive contributions from its young stars without sacrificing defense.

Thirdbase is a reaction position.  Athletic ability help but skills are more important.  Alonso has quick hands and can handle first base.  A thirdbase transition is feasible.

Alonso is up for the challenge.

"I'm working really hard at it," Alonso said.  "I'm doing the extra stuff I need to do to get better, get quicker around the base itself.  It's going well."

Yonder Alonso Takes Ground Ball at 3rd

Alonso has been taking ground balls at third for awhile.

"I always take ground balls there, even in Triple-A.  I think it comes pretty naturally to me.  It's not as new as left field.  I've played there all my life, so it's something I can do. It's the infield, that's where I've played all my life.  Obviously, firstbase is locked down completely. I think they're trying to get my bat in the lineup.  As long as I'm adequate, they'll give me a shot."

Baker would have rather made the transition this spring.

"You don't want to do it in the big leagues but it's the mirror image of firstbase.  It's something I've thought about a week ago.  I've talked to him and he said he signed as a third baseman.  So we'll see.  We're trying to figure out a way to get him in the lineup."