Cincinnati Reds Spring Training Preview Ft. Sal Stewart, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, Ke'Bryan Hayes

Описание: Here are the biggest Cincinnati Reds spring training storylines for 2026, especially focused on Sal Stewart, Spencer Steer, and Elly De La Cruz — three names with very different but interconnected narratives going into camp:

Sal Stewart’s push to stick in the big leagues
Sal Stewart is one of the most talked-about young talents in the Reds system. After a breakout season in the minors where he mashed 20+ homers and then brought that power briefly to Cincinnati, Stewart enters spring training with a chance to solidify a regular role in the lineup. He’s shown big-league power in short stints and ranks as the top prospect in multiple lists for the club heading into 2026. How he performs in Goodyear — both at the plate and as he continues to develop defensively between corner infield spots — will influence whether he cracks the Opening Day roster as an everyday contributor. A strong camp could push him firmly into the mix at first base or corner role.

Spencer Steer’s role and health
Veteran Spencer Steer enters spring training with questions around his optimal role. A versatile corner bat, Steer had some injury issues the past couple seasons that affected his rhythm, including a shoulder issue that limited him in previous springs. With Stewart looming behind him and competition for infield/corner outfield spots, Steer’s spring performance — health, power output, and consistent contact — will be a storyline. Can he reclaim his hard-hit ability and secure regular ABs, or will he slide into a more utility/bench type role?

Elly De La Cruz’s ongoing evolution
Elly De La Cruz remains the splashiest name on the roster and arguably the biggest Reds story overall. Coming off a season where he showcased huge power, speed, and star potential, De La Cruz’s spring is about refining consistency — both offensively and defensively. Reports talk about “unlocking the best version” of his game, with Francona likely to tweak approaches to maximize his elite tools. How De La Cruz performs in camp — including plate discipline and improved defense — will set expectations for 2026 and could dictate how opposing teams pitch to Cincinnati all season.

Big picture
Taken together, these three players represent the Reds’ balance of youth and established talent: Stewart pushing to be a core piece, Steer fighting for sustained value and role clarity, and De La Cruz aiming to elevate a team hungry for another leap forward in the National League.

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