After striking a deal earlier this offseason with All-Star Mike Moustakas, the Cincinnati Reds are now reportedly in talks with Japanese outfielder Shogo Akiyama.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman, the 31-year-old outfielder reportedly has a decent chance to sign with Cincinnati. Nikkan Sports, a sports outlet in Japan, first reported the interest between both sides.
Akiyama is a 31-year-old outfielder who has spent the past nine seasons playing for the Saitama Seibu Lions. Before suffering a broken bone in his right foot this November, he posted a .303/.392/.471 slash line with 20 home runs, 31 doubles and 12 stolen bases.
The veteran is a left-handed batter and throws right-handed. If he signs with Cincinnati, he could play left field or potentially center field if the team moves Nick Senzel around elsewhere.
Akiyama has also received interest from the San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs. He is expected to land a multi-year deal and reportedly could sign before the new year.