Cincinnati Reds: Projecting the Opening Day Batting Order

Opening Day is still months away, but it's never too early to get excited for baseball in Cincinnati.

The Reds were one of the league's most active teams this offseason, and they appear on paper to be one of baseball's most improved franchises heading into the 2012 season.

Here's a look at Cincinnati's batting order as it may appear come April 5.

1) Drew Stubbs, Center Field

Stubbs' knack for striking out is a major concern, but his speed on the base paths still makes him the Reds' best bet at the lead-off spot.

While he is certainly capable of hitting for power, Stubbs may be better suited embracing a role as a run scorer. 

If he can get on base, the Reds have the big bats needed to knock him in.

2) Brandon Phillips, Second Base

Phillips has bounced around the Reds lineup throughout the years, serving as a lead-off man, a clean-up hitter and everything in between, but he seems most comfortable in the No. 2 slot.

Hitting behind Stubbs and in front of Votto should allow him to produce in a major way just as he has in years past.

3) Joey Votto, First Base

This one's a no-brainer.

With both Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder playing in the American League, Joey Votto may just be the best first baseman in the entire National League. 

He's consistent. He's powerful. He's Votto.

4) Jay Bruce, Right Field

While he has the occasional cold streak, Jay Bruce is still one of the most dangerous pieces in the Reds' lineup.

Sure, his consistency is questionable, but his power is undeniable.

This could be the year that Bruce puts it all together and takes the league by storm.

5) Scott Rolen, Third Base

Scott Rolen is never going to be the player he was in his younger days, but he doesn't really need to be.

As long has he can stay reasonably healthy, he should be able to take advantage of the young studs ahead of him and put up some respectable numbers.

6) Devin Mesoraco, Catcher

The Reds have Mesoraco slated as their catcher of the future, and he looks to have all of the tools for the job.

We have yet to see him play an entire MLB season, but if he's half the player he has been hyped up to be, he could quickly become a key contributor in the heart of the Cincinnati batting order.

7) Chris Heisey, Left Field

Chris Heisey has spent his entire career in Cincinnati battling for a starting gig, but this could finally be the year that he settles in as the Reds' everyday left fielder.

While Cincinnati did sign Ryan Ludwick in the offseason, Heisey is the younger, faster and more powerful of the two outfielders, and should be able to earn the nod.

8) Zack Cozart, Shortstop

Reds fans didn't get to see much of Zack Cozart before he suffered a season-ending injury last year, but in his short time in the league Cozart made quite a splash, batting .324 through 38 plate appearances.

He's likely to start the season in the No. 8 slot, but could be moved up (possibly to the No. 2 hole) rapidly if he produces early on. 

9) Johnny Cueto, Starting Pitcher

Despite the addition of former San Diego ace Mat Latos, Johnny Cueto appears to be the No. 1 starter in the Reds' pitching rotation.

While he only managed to win nine games last season, his 2.31 ERA was among the league's best, and his 1.09 WHIP was equally impressive.

Look for Cueto to be the cornerstone of a rotation that could be one of 2012's absolute best.