Reds fielding calls about Yonder Alonso

ORLANDO – The Cincinnati Reds continue to receive calls about Yonder Alonso(notes), their 23-year-old first baseman and No. 1 pick whose path to the big leagues is blocked at least in part by MVP Joey Votto(notes).

Several inquiring teams have come away from conversations with GM Walt Jocketty believing the Reds are hesitant to trade Alonso, however, because Votto could be difficult to sign to a long-term deal – both in terms of Votto’s expectations and the club’s ability to carry what would be such a large contract.

Jocketty, according to the clubs, has suggested he may be forced to trade Votto before he reaches free agency. Votto is arbitration-eligible for the first time, so the Reds might not consider trading him for at least another two years.

Alonso played 30 games in left field in the minors last season, though first base is viewed as his more natural position.



(sports.yahoo.com)