Spring training often brings surprises, and this year, Cincinnati Reds fans might be doing a double-take as they watch Jeimer Candelario and Santiago Espinal shine with their new teams in 2026.
Candelario, who inked a three-year, $45 million deal with the Reds before the 2024 season, didn't last long in Cincinnati. He was designated for assignment last May, ending his stint with the team prematurely.
Espinal, known for his defensive prowess, joined the Reds two years ago and filled in admirably during McLain's injury-plagued 2024 season. However, his struggles at the plate last year led to a disappointing .243/.292/.282 slash line, resulting in his removal from the 40-man roster this past winter.
Fast forward to today, both Candelario and Espinal are gearing up for Opening Day with new teams. Espinal has secured a spot on the Los Angeles Dodgers' roster, while Candelario is on the verge of doing the same with the Los Angeles Angels.
Candelario's time with the Reds was a rough patch, hitting just .113/.198/.213 over 22 games before his release. Now, after signing a minor-league deal with the Angels, he's turned things around with a .256/.333/.674 line, four homers, and 10 RBIs in 17 Cactus League games. With Anthony Rendon's contract restructured, Candelario is poised to see significant action at third base for the Angels.
Espinal, traditionally a defensive asset, has let his bat do the talking this spring. In 15 games with the Dodgers, the 31-year-old boasts a .389/.432/.639 line and a 168 wRC+. His newfound power is a revelation, considering he didn't hit a single homer in 2025, but he's already belted two this spring.
Reds fans might get a chance to see Candelario in action when the Angels visit Cincinnati in early April. As for Espinal, the Reds won't face the Dodgers until the closing stretch of the 2026 season. If he's still with LA then, it could mean he's having a standout year or the Dodgers have faced significant injuries.
Both Candelario and Espinal deserve kudos for finding success in LA. While their time in Cincinnati didn't pan out as hoped, they're embracing new opportunities and making the most of their fresh starts.