Rookie Yonder Alonso eager to watch Votto

Yonder Alonso arrived in the major leagues Wednesday with a big smile and an even bigger grip on reality.

Alonso, the Reds' first-round draft choice in 2008, was thrilled to see his name and number (Alonso 23) in his very own big-league clubhouse stall.

Yet, Alonso knows better than anyone that his path at first base is blocked by National League MVP candidate Joey Votto.

"Joey's the best player there is here, and I think he's the best player in the league," Alonso said. "Whatever he needs me to do, I'll be here for him. I'm just going to learn as much as possible from him. I'll be his shadow."

For some teams the arrival of an Alonso - the No. 7 overall pick in his draft - might have meant a media frenzy. But, with the Reds rolling and another rookie phenom (Aroldis Chapman) having arrived the night before, Alonso's first day in the bigs was relatively quiet.

The 23-year-old was born in Cuba but speaks fluent English, having moved to the United States when he was 10 years old. Alonso said his mother, father, sister and uncle came to Great American Ball Park Wednesday.

"I don't even know how to do the ticket things yet," Alonso said. "I've got to go figure that out."

What Alonso knows is hitting. The left-hander hits for power but most notably for average: an even .300 in the minors in 2009.

This year, Alonso hit a combined .290 at Double-A Carolina and Triple-A Louisville, with 15 homers and 69 RBI overall (507 at-bats).

He made his major league debut in the seventh inning, as a pinch hitter. He grounded out on a check-swing roller to the pitcher.

Alonso entered this year rated the Reds' No. 2 prospect by Baseball America, with third baseman Todd Frazier rated No. 1.

Alonso played some left field in the minors this year, although questions remain about his speed in the outfield.

"Basically, he's here to hit," manager Dusty Baker said.

Pinch hitting will be what Alonso does most, for now. Baker might use him at first should Votto need a day off.

"I heard he gives you a good at-bat, has a good idea of the strike zone," Baker said. "The thing about him, he's not overwhelmed. He's confident."
The 6-foot-2, 215-pound Alonso was picked after his junior season at the University of Miami.

With Votto entrenched at first, some believe Alonso could bring the Reds some help via trade. Alonso was mentioned in a possible deal for pitching ace Cliff Lee.

Regardless, Alonso does not dwell on his future with Votto apparently blocking his path to a regular spot with the Reds.

"I really haven't thought about that at all," Alonso said. "It's not for me to really decide what I'm going to do. I'm just blessed to be here."



(news.cincinnati.com)