Cincinnati Reds: 5 things to know Monday’s first full-squad workout

It’s a crowded Sunday at the Reds complex in Goodyear, Arizona as position players reported for physicals ahead of Monday’s first full-squad workout.

Here are 5 things to know as the Reds get back to work.

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In past years Bryan Price came to camp knowing who his opening day starter was going to be and the manager wasn’t afraid to make it public. That wasn’t the case when he was asked the same question Sunday.

“I’ve got about 11 guys right now I’m thinking about,” Price said. “I don’t need to wait until the last week to say what I think, but I do have to get into the Cactus League season and make sure these guys are healthy.”

One of those 11 guys is Amir Garrett. The former Dayton Dragons pitcher started strong in his big league debut last spring, but injuries sent him back to the minors. Garrett says he’s ready to compete for a job even though others might have doubts.

“I’ve always been the person who had to work his way up,” he said. “I’m glad that last year happened to me so I can re-establish myself and be at the top again.”

The Reds have 62 players on the spring training roster and all but one of them reported on Sunday. Outfielder Sebastian Elizalde is taking care of some visa issues. The outfielder from Mexico is expected in camp in the next couple of days.

Pitchers and catchers got a late start to their Sunday workout. Veterans Homer Bailey, Brian Finnegan and Anthony DeSclafani all threw bullpen sessions.

It’s not supposed to be a postcard day in Goodyear for the first workout. A windy day with a high near 60 is on tap from Mother Nature. That will be about five degrees colder than back in Dayton on Monday — minus the rain that’s expected back home.

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