When the Cincinnati Reds added utility infielder Santiago Espinal near the end of spring training in 2024, the team likely understood it had a useful bench piece but probably didn’t anticipate he'd playing as large a role on the team as he has.
Due to injuries to Matt McLain and other starters, Espinal has played 232 games over the last two seasons and has appeared at every defensive position other than pitcher, catcher, and center field. McLain’s disappointing season could clear the way for Espinal to step into an even more pivotal role.
Reds fans probably aren’t rejoicing at the notion of Espinal becoming an everyday player.