Fansided · Dec 30, 2025
Reds suddenly have a surprise option challenging Matt McLain in 2026
Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart | Dylan Buell/GettyImagesMatt McLain's struggles at the plate in 2025 are well documented. The Cincinnati Reds second baseman hit just .220/.300/.343 with a 77 wRC+. McLain was able to stay in the lineup, however, because he one of the better defenders at the keystone last season. He ranked third among all NL second baseman last season with 6 outs above average (OAA) and committed just six errors.
But McLain may have some competition from an unexpected source this spring. Reds rookie Sal Stewart has slimmed down this winter, and is expecting to see time at both first and second base when the team descends upon Goodyear, Arizona in February.