CINCINNATI — The Reds signed veteran utility player Garrett Hampson to a one-year contract worth a prorated $760,000 on Friday. To clear a roster spot for Hampson, outfielder Rece Hinds was optioned to Triple-A Louisville.
Hampson isn’t known for his hitting, and that’s not why the Reds added him.
“We’re trying to have a more usable bench, especially because we’re carrying three catchers,” manager Terry Francona said. “Rece Hinds probably needs to play. He doesn’t need to be a fourth or fifth outfielder. With Hampson, he’s a guy who plays all positions. He can run. It just allows us to do a few more things later in the game.”
Since Hampson was released by the Diamondbacks on Sunday, Arizona will pay the remainder of the $1.5 million he is owed for 2025.
Hampson, 30, was batting .167 (5-for-30) in 18 games for Arizona. He is a lifetime .239/.302/.358 hitter with 29 home runs over eight seasons with the Rockies, Marlins, Royals and Diamondbacks.
Over his career, Hampson has played every position except for catcher. The bulk of his games have been in center field, second base and shortstop. He keeps three gloves handy — infield, outfield and first base.
“It’s valuable for a manager to be able to kind of plug me in and out of different positions,” Hampson said. “I really take pride in that part of my game. I just try to stay sharp in all of those positions.”
Hinds was recalled from Louisville on May 7 and batted .158 (3-for-19) with a .726 OPS and two homers in seven games.
