In a surprising move, the Cincinnati Reds have re-signed outfielder Billy Hamilton to a minor league contract with an invitation to major league spring training. This decision comes on the heels of Hamilton’s impressive performance in the Mexican League and the Caribbean Series, where he showcased his enduring speed and defensive prowess.
Hamilton, now 34, was a fan favorite during his initial tenure with the Reds from 2013 to 2018. Known for his electrifying base-stealing abilities and exceptional defense in center field, he amassed 277 stolen bases and was a five-time National League Gold Glove Award finalist during his time in Cincinnati. Despite his defensive strengths, Hamilton’s offensive struggles led the Reds to non-tender him after the 2018 season, making him a free agent.
Following his departure from the Reds, Hamilton became a journeyman, playing for several teams including the Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Miami Marlins, and Minnesota Twins. In 2024, he took his talents to the Mexican League, where he played 127 games, batting .251 with a .679 OPS and an impressive 75 stolen bases.
Hamilton’s standout performance continued into the Caribbean Series, representing Charros de Jalisco. He made history by stealing four bases in the first two games of the tournament, putting him just one shy of the single-tournament record of five stolen bases.
His resurgence did not go unnoticed. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported that Hamilton was seeking a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training, aiming to leverage his winter ball success into a return to the majors.
The Reds, recognizing both Hamilton’s recent achievements and his history with the team, decided to bring him back into the fold. With the team’s current outfield depth in question, Hamilton’s experience and defensive capabilities could provide valuable support. While his offensive consistency remains a concern, his speed and fielding skills offer potential benefits, especially in late-game situations.
As spring training approaches, Hamilton will have the opportunity to compete for a spot on the Reds’ roster. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the veteran speedster can capitalize on his winter ball momentum and make a successful return to Major League Baseball with the team where his career began.
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