When it comes to wielding a bat, Cincinnati Reds' second baseman Matt McLain is making quite the statement this spring. After a challenging season where he posted a .643 OPS over 147 games, McLain is now competing for a starting spot under manager Terry Francona. His efforts last year earned him a fifth-place finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, and he's looking to build on that momentum.
Spring training is prime time for players to tweak their mechanics and refine their swings, but McLain seems to be in midseason form already. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular:
- 5 home runs, leading MLB
- 12 RBIs, leading MLB
- 17 hits, leading MLB
- 13 runs, leading MLB
- A .607 batting average, leading MLB
- A 1.179 slugging percentage, leading MLB
- A 1.846 OPS, leading MLB
These stats are the stuff of video game legends, showcasing the potential of this 26-year-old, who was a two-time first-round draft pick.
Looking at the Reds' infield, the left side is locked down with Elly De La Cruz at shortstop and Eugenio Suarez returning to third base after a power-packed season with 49 homers across stints with the Diamondbacks and Mariners. However, Suarez might see more time as a designated hitter, thanks to Ke'Bryan Hayes' stellar defense at third.
With McLain's impressive spring numbers, he seems to have a strong case for the starting second baseman role. Yet, the competition is fierce.
Spencer Steer and top prospect Sal Stewart are both versatile enough to play at second and first base, while veteran Garrett Hampson is also in the mix as a non-roster invitee. The battle for the position will be one to watch as Opening Day approaches.