JJ Bleday is stepping into the 2026 season with a chip on his shoulder. After being designated for assignment and non-tendered by the A’s, he's now facing a new challenge with the Cincinnati Reds.
The task? Outshine Will Benson to secure his spot as the go-to lefty platoon bat.
Reds manager Terry Francona, who has history with Benson from their time in Cleveland, has been vocal about Benson’s potential. Francona highlighted Benson's streaky hitting but praised his versatility as a left-handed bat capable of covering all three outfield positions. Francona’s confidence in Benson sets a high bar for Bleday.
Bleday, too, can cover the entire outfield, and he tied for second in putouts among big-league outfielders in 2024. However, his fielding has been inconsistent, with a -8 fielding run value over four seasons. While Bleday is known for making spectacular catches, such as a memorable diving grab with an 85% catch probability, these moments often stem from poor initial jumps.
The hitting profiles of Bleday and Benson offer a study in contrasts. Benson is known for his power against right-handed pitching, channeling a “three true outcome” style similar to Miguel Andujar last season. Projections suggest a 10% walk rate, a 30% strikeout rate, and a home run every 27 plate appearances for Benson.
Bleday, meanwhile, is more balanced, albeit less powerful, against both lefties and righties. His career lines of .219/.269/.390 against southpaws and .214/.317/.395 against right-handers demonstrate consistency, but not dominance.
For Benson, refining his fielding and smoothing out his performance streaks could secure him the fourth outfielder role. Bleday, a former first-round pick like Benson, enters 2026 with more to prove.
The good news for both players? They have minor-league options available, providing some flexibility as they vie for their spots.