The market for center fielders this offseason is downright terrible, and that’s why A.J. Preller and the San Diego Padres turned to Japan for help going after Shogo Akiyama.
It was reported Saturday night that the Cincinnati Reds and Padres both had three-year offers on the table for Akiyama.
But unfortunately the Reds had the better offer and it’s now been reported that Akiyama has chosen the Reds.
Akiyama was probably the best center field free-agent option available this offseason, but he comes with a list of question marks not knowing how his skills will translate to Major League Baseball.