Noelvi Marte’s 2025 season was nothing short of a revelation. After a rocky 2024 where he posted a .210/.248/.301 slash line, many wondered if that was the player he’d become.
But Marte flipped the script, reminding us that player development isn’t a straight line. In 2025, he delivered a solid .263/.300/.448 with 14 homers, 51 RBI, and 10 steals in 90 games, proving that one tough season doesn’t define a career.
What’s impressive about Marte’s resurgence is that it wasn’t just a flash in the pan. After battling a left oblique strain, he found his groove, and the Reds wisely moved him around defensively. His time in right field, even with some defensive hiccups, allowed him to stack up positive performances and regain his confidence.
So, who’s poised for a Marte-like turnaround in 2026? Enter Chase Petty.
While names like Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Blake Dunn are in the mix, Petty is the one to watch. His 2026 isn’t just about improvement; it’s about proving he still fits into the Reds’ long-term plans.
Petty’s introduction to the majors in 2025 was rough, to say the least. In three games, he went 0-3 with a staggering 19.50 ERA, and his time in Triple-A Louisville wasn’t much better, posting a 6.39 ERA over 112⅔ innings. The walks were a major issue, turning promising counts into problematic ones.
The Reds aren’t looking for perfection from Petty this spring. They need him to be a reliable option by summer. With a mostly set rotation, Petty is vying for that fifth spot, making this spring a crucial time for him to make his mark.
The path forward for Petty is clear, though not glamorous. He needs to throw meaningful strikes.
The talent is there, but the margin for error shrinks at higher levels. If starting doesn’t pan out quickly, a move to the bullpen could be a smart pivot.
Many power pitchers thrive when focusing on short bursts of dominance.
This mirrors Marte’s journey. Marte didn’t erase his 2024 struggles; he adapted and became a daily asset.
Petty’s 2026 needs to follow suit-not a campaign for hype, but one for reliability. And the Reds could certainly use that kind of contribution.