Former Reds outfielder Shogo Akiyama opts out of minor league deal with Padres

The Cincinnati Reds made the correct, yet expensive, decision prior to the start of the 2022 season to release Shogo Akiayama. The former Nippon Professional Baseball start signed a three-yer/$21M contract with the Reds prior to the 2020 season.

Things never came together for Akiyama during his time in Cincinnati. The left-handed hitting outfielder slashed just .224/.320/.274 in two seasons with the Reds and never recorded a home run during his time in the big leagues.

After losing his spot on the Reds roster, Shogo Akiyama signed on with the San Diego Padres and was sent to Triple-A El Paso. Akiyama actually posted decent numbers in the minors, but his time in the Padres organization has now come to an end.

Former Reds OF Shogo Akiyama is a free agent once again.

The Cincinnati Reds cut ties with Shogo Akiyama this spring despite the fact they still owed the outfielder $8M. But the ownership took the financial hit and the team decided instead to roll with an outfield comprised of Aristides Aquino, Nick Senzel, Tommy Pham, Jake Fraley, and Tyler Naquin.

Aquino was eventually designated for assignment, but passed through waivers and rejoined the team in May. Fraley is on the 60-day IL and Naquin is looking to return from the Injured List very soon.

But despite the fact that Cincinnati's outfield has been plagued by injury and underperformance, it's unlikely that Akiyama would have made much difference. Plus, the Reds have seen the unexpected play of Albert Almora Jr., who looks to have found a home in the Cincinnati outfield.

Shogo Akiyama's next move is unknown. The former Japanese start could return to Nippon Professional Baseball or see if he can latch on with another club on a minor league deal.

Akiyama just never had enough chances with the Cincinnati Reds, and the pandemic-shortened 2020 season really didn't allow him to adjust to the differences between playing in NPB and playing in the United States. Hopefully he finds his footing somewhere.