Redus Says Rose Should Be Benched--Also Says He Expects to Be Traded

Outfielder Gary Redus of the Cincinnati Reds says that player-manager Pete Rose should bench himself to improve the team’s offense.

Redus told the Cincinnati Post that the team would be better off with a faster player in the lineup.

“All he can do is hit singles,” Redus said of Rose. “He thinks he’s helping the club hitting .265, but we’d have more speed and more power without him. More production.”

Redus is the first player on the Reds to suggest openly that Rose bench himself. The player-manager has platooned himself at first base with Tony Perez, choosing to play against right-handed pitchers.

Redus, 28, indicated that he can make the suggestion because he figures he’ll be traded after the season.

“I’m already out of the picture here,” Redus said. “I’m not even thinking about that anymore.”

Redus suggested that Rose bench himself, move left fielder Nick Esasky to first base and install Eric Davis in left field.

Davis agreed that such a move could improve the team’s offense.

“I think we’d have a little bit more production, because I have the capability to hit some home runs and steal some bases,” Davis said. “I make things happen when I get out there.”