By John Fay
The Cincinnati Enquirer

CHICAGO - Juan Castro was out of the lineup Saturday. His back was still bothering him. "I want to get back out there and put up some more numbers," Castro said.

The numbers Castro has put up already should warrant a long look by the Reds for 2004. Castro is hitting .264 with nine home runs and 32 RBI over 307 at-bats.

Given Castro's Gold Glove-caliber fielding, the Reds might give him a shot at playing every day at shortstop or second base (should D'Angelo Jimenez get moved to third).

Castro, 31, thinks he deserves a shot.

"They always said I couldn't hit," Castro said. "I said give me a chance. This year has been my big chance. I put up decent numbers. I showed I could play."

Castro's versatility sometimes works against him. He can play second, shortstop or third equally well, so he is labeled a utility player.

Castro came up as a shortstop in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, played some second base in the minors, then made his major league debut at third base.

Castro came to the Reds in 2000. He's been an extra guy until this year, when the Reds suffered numerous injuries.

"In spring training, I wasn't even in the plans," Castro said. "That put a little something inside me."

The Reds stashed Castro in Louisville on a rehab assignment to start the season. He was called up April 14 when Barry Larkin went on the disabled list and has been with the club ever since. He's made 79 starts. His next start will be worth $100,000. He has a clause in his contract that increases his 2004 salary to $1 million from $900,000 if he starts in 80 games in 2003.

What Castro's role is for 2004 will be determined by the manager and the general manager.

"I think it will depend on what happens in the offseason," interim manager Dave Miley said. "Juan's done a hell of a job. I think health is a question with him. He's had some injuries since I've been here."

FREEL TUESDAY? Ryan Freel (strained hamstring) is up to running at about 80 percent.

"I don't have any pain," Freel said. "I want to get it to 100 percent before I go out there. I think it will be Tuesday or Wednesday."

LaRUE BETTER: Jason LaRue, who left Friday's game with spasms in his upper back, did not play Saturday.

"I saw the chiropractor again," LaRue said. "It's better. I'll try to work it out and play (today)."