Rolen’s status: ‘up in the air’

The Reds are still exploring the notion of bringing back veteran third baseman Scott Rolen for one more season. To make that a reality, there appears to be more to do than crossing the T’s and dotting some I’s.

“We don’t know for sure,” general manager Walt Jocketty said Friday of Rolen’s status. “It’s still up in the air.

“I hope to get it resolved this weekend. I’ve been busy this week dealing with the arbitration guys.”

The biggest question surrounding a potential Rolen return is where he would fit. The Reds’ roster appears to be full. Todd Frazier is going to be the new regular third baseman and the club also signed free agent Jack Hannahan as a backup third baseman and infielder. Rolen, a seven-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove winner, has never played a position other than third base in his 17 seasons.

“It’s a role we’ll have to determine for him during Spring Training,” Jocketty said.

*As for the four remaining arbitration cases — Homer Bailey, Shin-Soo Choo, Mat Latos and Mike Leake — the Reds do not appear very close to deals. Jocketty wasn’t optimistic about avoiding a hearing because there hasn’t been much progress.

*Earlier today, I was at GABP for the annual loading of the truck for Spring Training. Lots of stuff will be headed to Arizona soon, a sure sign that baseball is right around the corner.