This article is adapted from Mark Sheldon’s Reds Beat newsletter. To view the complete newsletter, click here. Additionally, subscribe for regular updates in your inbox.
GOODYEAR, Ariz. — The Reds are set to conclude their spring training in a few days and return home following their final game in Arizona on Sunday. Are they prepared for the upcoming season?
The performance of Cincinnati as they take on the regular season starting on March 27 and throughout the following 161 games will provide the answer. In the meantime, here are some observations gathered over the last six weeks.
Players who missed a significant amount of time in 2024 appear to be in good shape and have been performing well. This includes Matt McLain, TJ Friedl, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Nick Lodolo. Having McLain back after a year lost to shoulder surgery not only strengthens the batting lineup but also enhances defensive capabilities at second base compared to Jonathan India and others who filled that role in 2024.
Trevino quickly emerged as a leader both in the clubhouse and on the field, even before stepping into regular play due to an injury to Tyler Stephenson. His commitment is evident; after needing X-rays for a thumb injury, he expressed a desire to continue playing the very next day and participated in drills after receiving a negative follow-up CT scan.
This new addition has impressed with his veteran presence, showcasing strong batting and defense in left field. Hays is anticipated to bat fourth during the season. If his underwhelming performance in 2024 was an anomaly, he could be poised for a significant comeback in 2025, making his $5 million salary a bargain for the team.
While it’s early in spring training, it’s promising that De La Cruz is making contact and displaying power, particularly in the initial weeks when he wasn’t fully in sync. Notably, his spring performance includes nearly as many walks as strikeouts, highlighting his potential for spectacular plays on the field.
In a recent 3-0 defeat against the Guardians, the Reds managed just one hit. While facing a competent pitcher like Tanner Bibee and resting some regulars played a part, the team ranks low in spring training batting averages and struggles in home runs and OPS. With no major signings in the offseason, the absence of reliable hitters like Stephenson (left oblique) and Spencer Steer (right shoulder) adds to the challenge. Stephenson will definitely start on the injured list, while Steer, who hasn’t played since February 27, may lack the at-bats needed for readiness.
Díaz successfully saved 28 out of 32 games last season, but he often struggled with his pitching, particularly in the first half. His performance in camp has not indicated any improvement, with a concerning outing against the Royals on Saturday where he allowed five earned runs in just one-third of an inning. The Reds have bolstered their bullpen with experienced closers Scott Barlow and Taylor Rogers, who could step in if Díaz falters. Tony Santillan may also be an appealing closing option.
Andrew Abbott’s entry into games was delayed due to a left shoulder strain that sidelined him for six weeks last season. He made his spring training debut on Monday, showing decent form over three innings against Cleveland. However, manager Terry Francona suggested that Abbott must meet all criteria to be ready for the regular season. Carson Spiers has demonstrated his capability for the fifth spot, while Graham Ashcraft has struggled in several of his starts.
