Spring in Goodyear: Reds Kick Off Full-Squad Workouts with Energy, Talent, and High Expectations
The sun was shining in Goodyear, Arizona, but it wasn’t just the weather heating up-it was the Cincinnati Reds, hitting the field for their first full-squad workout of the spring. With a mix of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and a coaching staff that’s laser-focused on development, the early vibes out of camp are exactly what you'd want to see from a team looking to make some noise in 2026.
Freddie Benavides Sets the Tone
Bench coach and field coordinator Freddie Benavides gathered the team ahead of Monday’s session, setting the tone for a camp that’s about more than just shaking off the offseason rust. Benavides, a mainstay in the Reds’ system, brings continuity and structure to the early days of spring. His presence is key-especially for a group that’s balancing player development with playoff aspirations.
Ke'Bryan Hayes Leads Infield Drills
Ke'Bryan Hayes was among the first to get after it, running through infield drills with the kind of defensive precision that’s become his calling card. Hayes isn’t just a glove-first guy-he’s a tone-setter, and his work ethic was on full display. Whether it’s footwork, reaction time, or communication, Hayes is someone younger players can look to as a model for how to approach the grind of camp.
Outfielders Building Chemistry
Rece Hinds and Will Benson were spotted chatting between drills, a small moment that speaks to the kind of clubhouse chemistry the Reds are hoping to foster. Hinds, with his raw power and athleticism, and Benson, a versatile outfielder with big-league experience, represent two different stages of development-but both are expected to play key roles this season. Early spring is the time to build those bonds, and it’s clear the outfield group is already clicking.
McLain, Steer, and De La Cruz Get to Work
Matt McLain was all business during field drills, and that’s no surprise. The young infielder has quickly become a core piece of the Reds’ future, and his all-around game continues to evolve. Spencer Steer took his hacks during batting practice, showing off the compact swing and gap-to-gap approach that made him one of last year’s most consistent contributors.
Then there’s Elly De La Cruz-arguably the most electric player in the organization. Watching him run drills is like watching a highlight reel in real time. His combination of speed, size, and athleticism is rare, and if he puts it all together this season, the league better be ready.
Reds' Arms on Display
On the mound, Rhett Lowder and Chase Burns were both locked in during their pitching sessions. Lowder, with his polished mechanics and command, is looking every bit the part of a future rotation anchor.
Burns, meanwhile, brings the heat-his fastball jumps, and his breaking stuff has bite. The Reds have invested heavily in young arms, and early returns in camp are promising.
Veteran Leadership and New Faces
Infielders Eugenio Suárez, Nathaniel Lowe, and Sal Stewart were seen talking between drills-a trio that blends power, experience, and upside. Suárez brings leadership and a veteran presence, while Lowe’s left-handed bat adds balance to the lineup. Stewart, still developing, benefits from being around guys who’ve been through the grind.
Héctor Rodríguez Making His Presence Felt
Outfielder Héctor Rodríguez was another standout during drills. He’s not the loudest guy on the field, but his effort speaks volumes. He’s fighting for a role in a crowded outfield picture, and days like this are where you make your case.
A Strong Start, But the Real Work Begins Now
The first full-squad workout is always a mix of excitement and evaluation. Players are shaking off the offseason, coaches are assessing where guys are physically and mentally, and everyone’s trying to set the right tone for the long season ahead.
For the Reds, Monday in Goodyear was a strong start. There’s a healthy blend of youth and experience, and the energy is unmistakable. It’s early, sure-but if this group keeps building on what we saw today, they might just be one of the more intriguing teams to watch in 2026.