An offer to move positions could resolve Cincinnati’s infield pileup.
Cincinnati Reds v Los Angeles Angels – Game One / Ronald Martinez/GettyImages
Perhaps the injuries, suspensions, and slumps that struck the Cincinnati Reds’ infield contingent in 2024 were a blessing in disguise. After all, the absence of Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, Jeimer Candelario, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand for some or all of the season delayed a difficult decision by the front office. What will the Reds do with their bountiful infield options? McLain may have just provided an answer.
According to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer, McLain is open to moving positions, which could relieve some of the infield surplus. Although McLain has been a middle infielder during his pro ball career, he spent some time in the outfield in summer league and college. He is currently playing in the Arizona Fall League where he could spend some time adjusting to a new position as Marte did two years ago.
Matt McLain’s offer to switch positions may help keep Jonathan India with the Reds
McLain’s flexibility is as wise as it is generous. With Elly De La Cruz cemented as the Reds’ everyday shortstop, McLain and Jonathan India would be fighting for time at second base. Throw in utilityman Santiago Espinal and top prospect Edwin Arroyo, who could be banging on the door of the majors late next season, and things start to get complicated… but not so much for McLain.
In a two-man race, McLain would clearly win out against India. The former NL Rookie of the Year has been on the chopping block for much of the past year, and his second-half slump, during which he had a .675 OPS, all but guarantees McLain a serious look despite missing the entire 2024 season. If McLain, though, regularly slots in at third base or center field, India is more likely to stick with the Reds. Goldsmith indicated that India would also be getting reps at first and third, expanding his usefulness to Cincinnati and increasing his value on the trade market.
If McLain does successfully move to center, it could spell the end for Will Benson. Adding McLain to an outfield rotation that already contains Spencer Steer, TJ Friedl, Jake Fraley, and Stuart Fairchild, not to mention prospects Blake Dunn and Rece Hinds, could crowd out Benson, which wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing given his dismal performance this year.
In the end, McLain’s generous offer provides the Reds with more options across the board. For a young team with a number of athletic utility pieces, flexibility might be the recipe for success.