As spring training gets underway, it seems like a near certainty that Zack Cozart will once again be the Reds’ starting shortstop on Opening Day. Trade rumors have swirled around the six-year veteran since last July, when the team reportedly didn’t complete the paperwork in time to send Cozart to the Mariners before the trade deadline. Despite being open to dealing the veteran this offseason to free up playing time for Jose Peraza, general manager Dick Williams still hasn’t found a match, and it’s unlikely that he will at this point.
While shortstop used to be a position in high demand, there simply aren’t many teams with an obvious need at the position right now.