As the Cincinnati Reds progress through their 2025 Spring Training in Goodyear, Arizona, several players are making significant impressions. Here’s a breakdown of standout performances and key developments:
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Austin Hays Eyes Return to All-Star Form
Outfielder Austin Hays has started Spring Training on a high note. He aims to replicate his 2023 All-Star performance with the Baltimore Orioles. Over two games, Hays boasts a .600 batting average, including two home runs and six RBIs, contributing to a remarkable 2.600 OPS. His resurgence promises to add depth and power to the Reds’ lineup. If Hays can stay on the field, he will be viewed as one of the key offseason moves. People will look back at this season and recognize his impact.
Rising Star: Sam Collier and Superstar Elly De La Cruz
Infield prospects Sam Collier and Elly De La Cruz have ignited excitement with their hot starts. De La Cruz, in particular, has been outstanding, playing in three games with a .625 batting average, three home runs, and four RBIs, resulting in an impressive 2.500 OPS. Twenty-year-old Collier has played in four games this spring. He has eight at-bats. He has recorded one double, resulting in a .333 batting average and a 1.334 OPS to start the spring. The one stat I find most impressive is his three walks. At a young age, he is already showing plate discipline. We hope to see this continue this spring and during the Minor League season. Collier is sometimes overlooked in discussions. This is due to Edwin Arroyo, Noelvi Marte, Rhett Lowder, and Chase Petty.
Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s Healthy Return
After an injury-plagued 2024 season, first baseman Christian Encarnacion-Strand has returned to the field in robust health. Participating in three games, he’s recorded a .286 batting average with one home run and one RBI, leading to a 1.000 OPS. His renewed vitality and performance hint at a promising season ahead. Last season, he appeared in only 29 games for the Reds. He hit just two home runs and had 16 RBIs. He has been working over at the hot corner this year. He has also been at First base. New Reds Manager Terry Francona will have plenty of lineup flexibility this season.
Taylor Rogers Fortifies the Bullpen
Left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers has been a formidable presence on the mound this spring. In his appearances, Rogers has maintained a 0.00 ERA over two innings, allowing two hits and striking out five batters. His proficiency in neutralizing hitters is poised to be a substantial asset to the Reds’ bullpen in 2025. Another solid back-end option to help maintain leads for the Reds late in games.
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Brady Singer Aims for Rotation Stability
Right-hander Brady Singer is striving to bring consistency to the back end of the Reds’ rotation. In his initial Spring Training outing, Singer pitched two innings. He did not allow any runs on two hits. He also had one walk and four strikeouts, resulting in a 0.00 ERA. As he continues to build up his innings, the Reds expect Singer to solidify his role. They anticipate that he will provide reliable performances throughout the season.
Noelvi Marte’s Uphill Battle
Infielder Noelvi Marte, a key acquisition in the Luis Castillo trade, is facing challenges this spring. After serving an 80-game suspension in 2024 for a PED violation, Marte has struggled to find his rhythm. In four games, he’s posted a .143 batting average with no home runs and one triple, leading to a .651 OPS. His slow start may impact his chances of making the Opening Day roster. However, his potential continues to make him a prospect to watch. Hopefully, he’s not discussed and known as the bust that was the key in the Luis Castillo trade.
Matt McLain’s back!!
Every fan is thrilled to see this guy back on the field. They missed him last season. McLain is back and crushing it this spring. Over three games, he has eight at-bats. He produced three runs scored on four hits. These include two doubles and one home run. He achieved three RBIs. This resulted in a .500 batting average and a 1.625 OPS this spring. Elly De La Cruz is the face of this franchise. However, McLain just might be the Reds version of Dustin Pedroia. Francona had great success with Pedroia while in Boston. McLain is in for a very productive season this year and I for one am excited to see it unfold.
Overview
As Spring Training progresses, the performances of these players will be crucial. They will shape the Reds’ roster and prospects for the 2025 season. People should not be sleeping on this Reds team as serious contenders in the National League Central this year. They have the talent if they can all stay on the field. The pitching can support them throughout the year. If the Reds sat atop the Central Division after 162 regular season games, I would not bat an eye. Here’s to another Reds season and hopes for Baseball in October!!
