Cincinnati Reds: Have the Reds Shortstops Really Been a Disappointment?

All people seem to talk about is the Reds struggles. Yes, it's obvious that they are not playing to their full potential, and at times are letting games get away.

The shortstop position seems to be one of the biggest problems with the team, and everybody is voicing an opinion on how to manage Paul Janish and 2010 World Series MVP Edgar Renteria.

Janish is a stellar shortstop who has a lot of abilities with the glove and a great arm, but at times is the polar opposite with the bat.

Edgar Renteria at one time was among the best shortstops in the majors. A complete talent with great defense and clutch at-bats, something we even saw last season when he helped the San Fransisco Giants win the World Series.

So far these two have struggled a bit at the plate, and yes, as passionate Reds fans, it's frustrating at times. But if you look at it, these guys have helped quite a bit as well.

Edgar has been pretty clutch this year with runners in scoring position. Look at the April 30th game against the Florida Marlins, when he knocked in the game winning run in the 10th inning to top off a four run comeback over his former team.

How many times this year has Paul Janish made a jaw dropping defensive play that kept a base hit from happening? It seems like he does this two or three times a week. Oh, and let's not forget that he was robbed of a run at home tonight against the Braves.

Now if you expect Barry Larkin to come through the door, it's not going to happen. But honestly, these guys haven't been a major disappointment.

Word is the Reds are going to try to upgrade the shortstop position, and rightfully so. Recently I wrote about the idea of Jose Reyes possibly being a trade candidate. 

Perhaps Todd Frazier is a guy who can be a shortstop. Frazier plays pretty much everywhere he can on the field and has very impressive stats for AAA Louisville.

All in all, these two have contributed when the Reds needed them too. It may not be every time they're at the plate, but really they are helping this team.