BREAKING: Cincinnati Reds Manager Makes Major Declaration on Matt McLain’s Role
The Cincinnati Reds have several key roster decisions to make heading into the 2025 season, but one thing appears certain—Matt McLain is expected to focus almost exclusively on second base this spring.
McLain, who played the infield during his 2023 rookie season, spent time working in the outfield during the Arizona Fall League after missing all of 2024 due to shoulder and rib injuries. However, The Athletic reports that he’ll primarily take reps at second base as camp gets underway.
When asked how many positions McLain would play in spring training, Reds manager Terry Francona made it clear: “I hope it’s one.” That position? Second base.
McLain was among the Reds’ exciting young call-ups in 2023, making an immediate impact by hitting .290 with 16 home runs, 50 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases over 365 at-bats. He also posted a strong .357 on-base percentage.
A first-round pick out of UCLA in the 2021 draft, McLain now has a clear path to second base after the Reds traded away former Rookie of the Year Jonathan India this offseason.
Beyond McLain, the rest of Cincinnati’s infield alignment remains fluid. Elly De La Cruz is locked in at shortstop, but Gavin Lux is expected to move around between short, second, third, and even the outfield. Christian Encarnacion-Strand can play first, third, and the outfield, while Spencer Steer also offers versatility around the diamond. Meanwhile, Jeimer Candelario is set to split time between first and third base.
With so many moving pieces, the Reds’ infield competition will be worth watching throughout spring training.