Spring training is officially underway in Goodyear, Arizona, and while pitchers and catchers were the only ones required to report on Monday, several Cincinnati Reds position players decided not to wait until Saturday’s deadline to get to work. And that early energy is already setting the tone.
Thanks to the Reds’ social media team-and the wonders of modern technology-we’ve gotten a solid look at who’s getting a head start on the spring grind. Among the early arrivals: outfielders TJ Friedl, Will Benson, and Blake Dunn. All three are expected to play key roles in the outfield mix this season, and their presence this early sends a clear message-they’re not taking anything for granted.
On the infield side, Spencer Steer and Matt McLain were also spotted getting reps in. Both were major contributors last season, and their versatility and offensive upside make them cornerstones in the Reds’ youth movement.
Joining them were Sal Stewart and Leo Balcazar-two intriguing young infielders who are pushing their way up the system. Balcazar, who was added to the 40-man roster in November, split his 2025 season between High-A Dayton and Double-A Chattanooga.
His inclusion in early workouts is a sign the Reds see real potential in the 20-year-old shortstop.
It’s not uncommon for players to show up ahead of schedule, but it’s always notable when this many do. It speaks to the culture the Reds are building-a group of young, hungry players eager to take the next step. This team knows it’s on the cusp of something, and the early attendance is just the latest example of that mindset.
World Baseball Classic Impact
Looking ahead to the World Baseball Classic, the Reds will be well represented on the international stage. Six players from the organization are slated to compete in the tournament next month.
From the 40-man roster, Eugenio Suarez will suit up for Venezuela, while Edwin Arroyo will represent Puerto Rico. Both bring experience and energy, and the WBC offers them a valuable chance to sharpen their skills in high-stakes games before the MLB season begins.
The Reds’ minor league system will also be in the spotlight. Infielders Ivan Johnson (Great Britain) and Alexander Vargas (Cuba) are set to compete, along with pitchers David Lorduy (Colombia) and Ryjeteri Merite (Netherlands). For these prospects, the WBC presents a rare opportunity to test themselves against elite talent in a global setting-an experience that can accelerate development and boost confidence.
And there’s one more name to keep an eye on: Irvin Machuca. The right-hander, who signed a minor league deal with Cincinnati in January 2025, has been named to Team Mexico’s Designated Pitcher Pool.
That means he could be called into action if the team needs reinforcements during the first round or quarterfinals. Machuca has been pitching professionally in Mexico since 2019, and his inclusion on this list shows just how deep the Reds’ scouting efforts go-and how international experience continues to shape the organization’s farm system.
With early arrivals in camp and players gearing up for international duty, the Reds are already making noise before the games even start. The energy is there, the talent is developing, and the foundation is being set for what could be a very interesting 2026 season in Cincinnati.