It’s unclear whether Terry Francona was responding to criticism on social media or relying on statistical insights, but the Cincinnati Reds manager finally made a smart move by removing Santiago Espinal from the No. 2 spot in the batting order. While it’s possible this was just a routine day off for Espinal, Reds fans are hopeful it signals a more permanent shift.
In Monday’s game against Kansas City Royals starter Michael Lorenzen, Francona penciled in TJ Friedl as the leadoff hitter, followed by Spencer Steer in the two-hole and Elly De La Cruz batting third—though not playing shortstop. Austin Hays hit cleanup, with Gavin Lux batting fifth and manning third base. Later in the game, when the pitching matchup became more favorable in the sixth inning, Francona subbed in Espinal for Lux.
Francona has insisted for weeks that Espinal is one of the Reds’ top hitters. And while the former All-Star does bring value as a high-contact player who thrives in specific scenarios—like hit-and-runs or bunts—regularly placing him second in the lineup has been questionable at best. What Francona does with Tuesday’s lineup will be revealing: will Espinal be back near the top, or dropped further down the order where he arguably fits better?
Terry Francona finally removed Santiago Espinal from the Reds lineup on Monday vs. Royals
Espinal is a glove-first infielder who undoubtedly belongs in the Reds starting lineup, especially with Noelvi Marte on the injured list. But He has no business hitting second in the Reds batting order when other players are much more suited for that role.
Santiago Espinal is slashing .273/.333/.325 this season with just eight extra-base hits and an 84 wRC+. While he excels at putting the ball in play—striking out only 10.1% of the time—he offers virtually no power, as evidenced by his team-worst .052 ISO. Since being slotted into the No. 2 spot in the lineup, Espinal has struggled mightily, hitting just .191/.255/.213. It’s hard to justify batting someone with that profile ahead of a dynamic offensive force like Elly De La Cruz.
Meanwhile, Spencer Steer, who had been limited earlier in the year due to injury, appears to be finding his rhythm again. Though he went just 1-for-5 on Monday, that came on the heels of a 12-game hitting streak that ended against the Cubs. Despite a .222 average on the year, Steer has been hot recently, posting a .302/.351/.452 line over his last 15 games.
Until Matt McLain is healthy and producing again, Francona would be wise to stick with TJ Friedl, Steer, and De La Cruz atop the lineup. Espinal is far better suited for a role in the bottom third of the order, and Reds fans are optimistic that Francona has finally recognized that.
