The Cincinnati Reds' 2026 Opening Day Roster: A Glimpse into What's to Come Before Spring Training Even Begins!
As the days tick down, with pitchers and catchers set to report to Goodyear, Arizona, in just a couple of weeks, and the full squad assembling by mid-month, the anticipation for the Cincinnati Reds' 2026 season is palpable. While some fans are understandably a bit restless due to the front office's quiet winter in terms of landing a marquee bat, the overwhelming sentiment is one of excitement, a desire to build upon last year's triumphant return to the MLB Postseason. But here's where it gets interesting: even without major offseason splashes, what might the Reds' Opening Day roster look like? Let's dive in!
The Starting Nine: A Mostly Set Lineup
The Reds' Opening Day starting lineup appears to be largely solidified, particularly in the infield. Tyler Stephenson will once again be behind the plate as our catcher. The infield looks like a lock with Spencer Steer at first base, Matt McLain at second, Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, and Ke'Bryan Hayes at third. Steer, a Gold Glove-caliber defender at first, might see some time in left field, but his primary home will likely remain on the infield. JJ Bleday, a new addition this winter, is poised to be our starting left fielder against right-handed pitching. TJ Friedl is set to patrol center field, and Noelvi Marte is ready for his first full season as a right fielder.
And this is the part most people miss: If Sal Stewart lives up to the expectations within the organization, he'll be a strong contender to break camp with the big league club. He's projected to share reps at first base and third base with Steer and Hayes, respectively, while also logging time as the designated hitter. Even though a salary agreement for 2026 is still pending, Tyler Stephenson remains our Opening Day backstop.
The Bench: Depth and Versatility
Rounding out the roster, we'll need a solid bench. After a trade that sent Gavin Lux to Tampa Bay, Cincinnati needs a reliable middle infielder to back up McLain and De La Cruz. While Tyler Callihan is a possibility, his return from a significant injury and limited MLB experience might mean the Reds look to the veteran market. Isiah Kiner-Falefa could be a perfect fit, offering the high-contact hitting the coaching staff values.
Will Benson brings valuable versatility, capable of playing all three outfield positions. While Dane Myers was added in the offseason, his lack of power might open the door for Rece Hinds to secure an Opening Day spot. And for our backup catcher role, veteran Jose Trevino is expected to be a solid presence.
The Starting Rotation: The Race for the Fifth Spot
The starting rotation hinges on one crucial question: who will be our fifth starter? We can expect Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, and Brady Singer (assuming he isn't traded) to anchor the first four spots. The fifth spot, however, is where the real competition will heat up. Rhett Lowder might have the inside track, but a spirited battle is anticipated between him and Chase Burns. We shouldn't count out Brandon Williamson either, and Jose Franco, Julian Aguiar, and Chase Petty will all be vying for a chance. This is shaping up to be the most intense position battle in camp!
The Bullpen: Reloaded and Ready?
This past offseason saw the Reds lose significant innings from their bullpen with the departures of Brent Suter, Nick Martinez, and Scott Barlow. However, the front office has been active in restocking. The acquisitions of Caleb Ferguson and Pierce Johnson, along with the trade for Brock Burke, have transformed a potential weakness into a perceived strength.
Emilio Pagán is set to return, aiming to build on his success as last season's closer. Tony Santillan and Graham Ashcraft should resume their established roles. Connor Phillips showed enough promise in 2025 to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster. For the final spot, Anthony Misiewicz is currently penciled in, though Zach Maxwell, Luis Mey, and Tejay Antone could certainly make a case.
So, here's the million-dollar question for Reds Country: Have the Reds done enough this offseason to truly build on last season's success? Is this bullpen truly equipped to handle the grind of a 162-game season? And, perhaps most critically, is the team's power profile sufficient? What are your thoughts on the potential roster? Do you agree with these projections, or do you see different players making the cut? Let us know in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take!
