The Cincinnati Reds are about to open a crucial three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies, and manager Terry Francona has reshuffled the lineup just a little bit. Matt McLain, who usually bats second, will be hitting eighth on Monday night against the Phillies. First baseman Spencer Steer will take McLain's spot, and now be taking his hacks behind leadoff hitter TJ Friedl and ahead of All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz.
Though McLain has played better of late, the former first-round pick is still lacking that power that made him such a force during his rookie campaign with the Reds in 2023.