When a player makes a decision that strays from the traditional path, many scrutinize him. But when that player’s name is José Barrero, the magnifying glass becomes a microscope. The infielder, who was a highly touted prospects of when he signed with the Cincinnati Reds.
Barrero however has just rejected a minor league assignment from the St. Louis Cardinals and has opted to become a free agent. The 27-yeat-old Cuban, never found a space or the rhythm in his short stay with the Cardinals. He only appeared in 22 games this season and in 31 official at-bats, hit .138 with a .194 OBP. Below average numbers, yes, but they don’t reflect the potential that many continue to see in him.
Barrero is much more than a batting line. He’s a five-tool athlete on paper, with speed, strength, arm, and defensive versatility that has led him to perform not only at shortstop, but also at second, third, and even center field. Throughout his minor league career, he has proven that the talent is there swatting 51 home runs, stealing 48 bases, and posting a .799 OPS in five seasons, this also includes a .299/.396/.517 slash line this year in Memphis.
But he was never given the time he needed in the Major Leagues. Between Cincinnati and St. Louis, he racked up 478 plate appearances over five seasons, failing to establish himself or show consistency. Today, José Barrero has said “enough.” He has taken control of his destiny and decided to explore new horizons. Free agency opens the door to a new beginning, whether with another MLB team or even in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), where at least one franchise has expressed interest.