The Cincinnati Reds had claimed outfielder Hunter Renfroe off waivers on August 31, hoping he could contribute his usual power to their lineup.
After all, Renfroe has hit 173 home runs since becoming an MLB regular in 2017.
Despite the faith that the Reds put in him, the slugger was unable to get into a rhythm and the team announced that they designated him for assignment.
“The Reds have designated OF Hunter Renfroe for assignment, the team announced,” MLB on FOX tweeted.
The Reds have designated OF Hunter Renfroe for assignment, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/EgX3ZWGU1a
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) September 18, 2023
It means that Renfroe is immediately outrighted from the Reds’ 40-man roster, leaving a spot available.
He will likely return to waivers and if nobody claims him, he could become a free agent.
There is a chance someone else decides to snag him off waivers, though.
His time in Cincinnati wasn’t productive at all.
In 14 games and 39 at-bats, Renfroe hit .128/.227/.205 with a .432 OPS.
Adding up his stats with the Angels and Reds, the slugger had a .713 OPS and 20 home runs.
That’s far from his career .777 OPS, but another team might be willing to take a look at him considering his resume and his reputation for being a power hitter.
The Reds are still fighting for a playoff spot in the National League.
With their 78-73 record, they are just half a game behind in the quest for the third and final Wild Card spot in the National League.
There are five teams vying for two spots in what is shaping up as the most entertaining Wild Card finish in years.
Will the Reds return to October?
It’s impossible to tell at this point, but they will have to move on without Renfroe.
NEXT: Insider Highlights List Of Positives For The 2023 Reds