Track Record: In his MLB debut on Sept. 2, Steer homered. In the penultimate game of the season, his walk-off RBI double against the Cubs staved off 100 losses until the next day. In between, there weren't many highlights in Steer's month in Cincinnati. Those moments were a fitting footnote on a season in which Steer made the Futures Game and was traded to the Reds along with Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Steven Hajjar for righthander Tyler Mahle.
Scouting Report: Steer has long been equally praised and criticized for being a well-rounded player without any exceptional tools. He's not going to be the best player on any pro team, but he's been a useful player everywhere he's played. Because Joey Votto was injured, Steer ended up playing nine games at first base with the Reds. For someone who has played second base, third base, shortstop and right field, it was just another position to pick up. Steer fits as a second or third baseman who can fill in at shortstop. He has excellent hands and a slow heartbeat. His average arm is just enough because of a quick release and accuracy. He's an average runner who isn't a basestealer but is a solid baserunner. Despite back-to-back season of 20-plus home runs, Steer is more of a solid hitter with sneaky, below-average pop. The friendly confines of Great American Ballpark should boost his home run numbers. He uses the entire field and should be able to hit .260 to .270 while posting solid on-base percentages.
The Future: Steer will compete for the Reds' third base job to start 2023, but he'll likely end up playing there and everywhere as the need arises. He's similar to fellow Reds infielder Matt McLain as a smaller but savvy infielder who relies on feel for the game and a hit-first approach.
Scouting Grades: Hitting: 55. Power: 40. Run: 50. Fielding: 55. Arm: 50
