The Reds on Tuesday signed Michael Tucker, who would have been a free agent after this season, to a two-year contract extension through 2003.

        “We don't like to have free agents on the roster,” Reds general manager Jim Bowden said. “Because you can't trade them, and if they walk after the season, you get nothing.”

        So the move to sign Tucker gives the Reds a reliable fourth outfielder — and the flexibility to trade him if they wish.

        Tucker, 29, hit .267 with 15 home runs and 36 RBI last year. He started 63 games — 27 in left field, 19 in right and 17 in center.

        “He's a productive player,” Bowden said. “He can play every day. He keeps improving.”

        Tucker, a left-handed hitter, could be used to platoon with Alex Ochoa in right field.

        Tucker, who will make $1.8 million this year, will earn $2.25 million in 2002 and $2.75 million in 2003

        Bowden would not comment on numbers but said: “Michael took less than he would make on the open market.”

        REYES MAY START: Bowden confirmed what Bob Boone said over the weekend: Dennys Reyes will be considered for the starting rotation.

        “We want to have seven pitchers ready to start,” Bowden said. “So Pete Harnisch, Osvaldo Fernandez, Elmer Dessens, Rob Bell, Seth Etherton, Scott Williamson and Reyes. Then we'll decide whether Reyes or Williamson goes to the bullpen.”

        Reyes, the 23-year-old left-hander, long has been considered for the starting rotation. He made one start in 1999 and seven in '98.

        He was 2-1 with a 4.53 ERA in 62 games last season. He posted a 1.72 ERA after the All-Star break.

        ARBITRATION DATES: Dates have been set for the Reds' arbitration hearings: Sean Casey, Feb.7; Danny Graves, Feb.13; Pokey Reese, Feb.16; Dmitri Young, between Feb.12-16, and Scott Sullivan, between Feb.19-21.

Reese skipping RedsFest in contract dispute Boone's goal: Opening Day Reds sign Tucker for 2 more years Schott hospitalized again

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