Is Christian Encarnacion-Strand Ready for Cincinnati Reds’ First Base Role?

The Cincinnati Reds face pivotal decisions as they look to improve their first base production, which lagged 27% below league average in OPS+ during 2024. This episode examines whether Christian Encarnacion-Strand should be the Reds’ opening day first baseman in 2025, despite his struggles and injuries. Hosts Jeff and Steve weigh the pros and cons of pursuing a free agent like Christian Walker and explore potential infield configurations involving Spencer Steer, Elly De La Cruz, and Jonathan India. They also analyze Ty France’s future with the team, considering his projected $9 million arbitration salary and underwhelming performance. Don’t miss out on this in-depth discussion about the Cincinnati Reds’ strategic moves for 2025—listen now to gain valuable insights into the team’s potential lineup and player decisions.

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0:00 Santiago Espinal’s Role for Reds
10:41 Reds’ Outfield Needs and Options
21:43 Jake Fraley’s Future with the Reds

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8 comments

  1. Until we see him play a healthy 150+ games all at 1B I would say no. I Jeff's idea letting Espinal go and signing Thairo Estrada though. Let Estrada start everyday splitting time at 3B and LF. Should make him a better defender at 3B and his -.5 war will go back up. Last year was 2.8 and previous year 1.7. So defense should be better and his power should also go up. We win all the way around on that. Also this would allow Steer to get some time at 1B if CES has another whacky season.

    I also think a payroll dump with the candy guy could just about get another starter by itself. Allowing us to trade Marte for a strong BP arm after the season starts since he can start in Louisville. Im oretty sure that Santander sign with LA Dodgers freeing up Teoscar Hernandez who would be the guy I would want but I am not sure that ownership/GM will want to pay the number of years he will want. Maybe more likely that we sign Marcel Ozuna to put a bandaid on the long term issues in the OF.

  3. Catch Luke Weaver interview on SpectrumSports broadcast yesterday; He details his struggles with the Reds last year and his journey. Very insightful!

  8. Yes. They promised Elly SS because they are afraid to lose him to free agency… and guess what? Boros is taking him big market anyway. So stap on a pair and put him at the position that is best for the team now. RF. Not CF because he will hurt himself.

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