C70 At The Bat is a Cardinals (GASP!) blog that is running a series of posts previewing each team by having other bloggers answer five questions.  Here is my submission for the Reds.

What was your opinion of the team’s offseason?
After a slow start, Walt Jocketty kicked it into high gear with trades and free agent signings. The moves show the club’s desire to win now, as opposed to building for the future. I am thrilled at the moves, especially the acquisition of Mat Latos, which should be a major boost to the starting rotation.

What do you think the strength of the team will be this season?
On paper, the strength of this team should be the pitching staff. Latos will join Johnny Cueto, Bronson Arroyo, Mike Leake, Homer Bailey to form a solid starting rotation. The major question is whether that rotation will include Aroldis Chapman, who the club is considering moving to the rotation from the bullpen. Ryan Madson will take over the closer’s duties. The remaining spots will be filled by Sam LeCure, Logan Ondrusek, Bill Bray, Sean Marshall, Andrew Brackman, Jose Arredondo and Nick Masset.

Aroldis Chapman was pretty strong out of the pen last year. Is the idea still to make him into a starter and, if so, is that the right decision?
The club seems to be set on making him a starter. If he isn’t ready by the end of Spring Training, there is even a possibility he could begin the year at AAA Louisville. Personally, I think this is a mistake. Having someone that can regularly top 100+ mph come out of the bullpen to face a pinch hitter coming in cold off the bench is a tremendous advantage. I also am concerned about someone throwing that hard for 6-7 innings, especially someone who has already suffered from shoulder stiffness. I hope I am wrong, but will remain skeptical.

Is there a prospect that will make an impact on the team this season?
There are two prospects that will have to make an impact this year if the Reds are to be successful. Zack Cozart will be starting at shortstop on Opening Day. Coming back from Tommy John surgery on his non-throwing elbow, Cozart is 100% and hopes to solidify his role as the team’s starting shortstop for years to come. Devin Mesoraco will share catching duties with veteran Ryan Hanigan. Hanigan is the better choice at this point, but will be counted on to help groom the young Mesoraco.

Where will the team finish in their division and what are you most excited about for 2012?
Spring Training is a time for optimism and promise and it hasn’t been this high in Reds Country in a long time. There is no “building for the future” mantra. The team is built to win now and I expect them to. Anything less than a division title would be a disappointment. After that, anything can happen.