The Cincinnati Reds, one of the most beloved teams in baseball history, take the field again on March 28. The Reds have a high ceiling this year, with glimpses being shown from last year’s season of this team’s potential (even with finishing near .500 and with an 82-80 record). The Reds will need to keep their young team healthy and productive this season.
Cincinnati wants to try to contend for the playoffs again in 2024 after falling short with 82 wins in 2023.
“I think the Reds are going to do really well this year and I’m super excited to see what they accomplish!” said junior Brennan Bucher.
The Reds ended the season with the third-worst ERA (earned run average) and allowed 38 more runs than they scored. Losses in the off-season seem to have stirred emotions for the fanbase. With a major loss being longtime veteran, first basemen, Joey Votto. Followed by Hunter Renfroe and Nick Senzel.
Although the Reds have taken these significant losses, the team is still young and electric with the likes of Elly De La Cruz, Jonathan India, Matt McClain, and more leading the way this coming up season.
Expected to be fully healthy by spring training and likely an everyday player at either second base or shortstop, McLain has a good chance to break out in his sophomore season with his 2023 experience behind him.
“I’m excited to see what they young guys can do this year, especially after having a whole off-season together. Elly De La Crus obviously is just super special and a work horse, super excited to see him this year. Same with McClain and the others.” Bucher added.
The Reds face the Washington Nationals on March 28th to open the season. “Super excited to go to opening day this year!” said senior Connor Wallace.
The worries going into the season are minimal. Pitching seems worrying for the Reds this year. Hunter Greene, Graham Ashcraft, Frankie Montas, and Andrew Abbott lead the pitching rotation this year for the Reds.
The Reds accelerated their offseason activity in a major way during December with three free-agent signings, totaling $87 million. By adding Jeimer Candelario, Nick Martinez and Emilio Pagán, they made improvements to their lineup, rotation and bullpen.
Having a proven pitcher who could provide 175 innings and make 30 starts would likely make the Reds the favorites among National League Central contenders. “I think the Reds are on a big turnaround this year and will shock some people and really be something special,” Wallace added.