5 years agoCincinnati Reds outfielder Shogo Akiyama is expected to serve as the team's leadoff hitter this season, according to manager David Bell. Bell reportedly likes the on-base approach from Akiyama and first baseman Joey Votto atop the Cincy lineup. Akiyama is embarking upon his first MLB season after spending the entirety of his nine-year career in Japan. He heads to the United States after averaging 23 homers per season over the past three years. Akiyama has some power/speed upside to his profile and could wind up being a solid fantasy contributor, especially if he sticks at or near the top of the Cincinnati lineup.--Matt T - RotoBaller
Source: Bobby Nightengale Jr. on Twitter