While winning is always nice, during Spring Training, it practically means nothing. Players are working on perfecting their craft, players who wouldn’t be given chances are given chances, and the team is working on simply improving. The Reds are currently 0-2, but there was a lot of good and some bad to begin the season. I am focused on the remaining three spots for the roster and watching the battle for the bullpen and 5th starter holes. It felt great to see the guys back on the field and playing competitive baseball again. It’s been a long offseason, but baseball has arrived-and I have something substantial to write about!
Positives from the Weekend
· Will Benson crushed a homer in the opener. 2023 Will Benson season would do a lot for this outfield. He is the easiest player to root for, as he is just a good guy with so much energy.
· Edwin Arroyo got himself a hit and went 1-2 in the opener. He might find himself getting at-bats at some point this season.
· While Chase Burns struggled some with his command, he had two strikeouts and gave up zero hits in his two innings. He will soon be the Reds ace – maybe as early as next season.
· Cincinnati managed to have 12 hits against Seattle in the second game – including two from McLain, two from Elly, two from Bleday, and two from Rece Hinds. A Rece Hinds successful spring would be very interesting.
· The biggest story thus far – Tejay Antone’s return from his third Tommy John surgery. He went one inning, one strikeout, and no hits. He could find himself making this bullpen roster if he stays healthy and it would be a story for the ages if so.
Negatives from the Weekend
· Cincinnati only managed to have four hits to begin the season against Cleveland. Not the start you hope for.
· Connor Phillips and Luis Mey had horrible outings leading to a “mad Tito” after the Seattle game. Mey alone gave up five runs and will begin the year with a 67.50 ERA. Tough beginning for someone trying to make it out of Louisville.
· Eugenio Suarez is starting off cold with an 0-6 start (tiny sample size), as he gets ready for the World Baseball Classic.
· Every Spring Training game should be televised. It’s 2026 – televise everything, even without announcers. I don’t want to listen to the radio in 2026 (Sorry old-timers).
· Matt McLain doesn’t look right in long pants – but I am all for a change if it results in success. Weird seeing a second baseman in long pants.
· It’s still a month+ away from real baseball. Spring Training is nice, but it’s just a teasing appetizer for your long-awaited meal!
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