Noelvi Marte, once a top prospect for the Cincinnati Reds, is currently in a challenging position regarding the team's starting third base role. Reports indicate that he has been relegated to working out with minor leaguers during spring training, indicating a likely start in Triple-A. Manager Terry Francona emphasized that Marte must earn his place, which could benefit his development. After returning from a PED suspension in 2024, Marte struggled at the plate, hitting just .210 with four homers in 229 at-bats, raising concerns about his readiness for the big leagues.

The Reds' options for the third base position include Jeimer Candelario and Christian Encarnacion-Strand, along with other versatile candidates. Marte, at only 23, still has time to improve his game and potentially reclaim his status as a valuable asset for the Reds in the near future.

The Cincinnati Reds welcomed their position players to camp with a lighthearted "school photo thread," capturing moments filled with excitement reminiscent of a first-day-of-school vibe. The players featured include Gavin Lux, Jeimer Candelario, Santiago Espinal, Noelvi Marte, Carson Spiers, Brent Suter, Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, Tyler Stephenson, Alexis Diaz, Nick Martinez, Will Benson, and TJ Friedl among others.

In addition to the fun photo-sharing, the Reds organization has been active with news, including a tribute video for Pete Rose and discussions about managerial candidates following the firing of David Bell. The team is expected to be aggressive in pursuing trades and has identified several key traits for their next manager. As fans gear up for the season, the Reds offer robust coverage on their social media platforms and dedicated channels.

The Cincinnati Reds are aiming for a significant turnaround following a lackluster 77-win season, as they prepare for the upcoming MLB campaign. The team's opening day lineup includes notable players like Matt McLain at second base, Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, and Gavin Lux, who is set to start at third base despite limited experience in that position. The starting rotation will feature Hunter Greene, Brady Singer, Nick Martinez, Nick Lodolo, and Rhett Lowder, who is recovering from an injury but earned a rotation spot over Andrew Abbott, despite Abbott's solid performance in his previous two seasons.

The Cincinnati Reds are gearing up for the new season, with several position players arriving early for spring training. Hall of Famer Barry Larkin was spotted working with Edwin Arroyo, Gavin Lux, and Matt McLain on mastering double plays. Lux and McLain are poised to start at second base, while Arroyo is likely to begin the season in the minors.

This early practice is critical for establishing infield chemistry, particularly for Lux and McLain, who are expected to play vital roles in the Reds' lineup. As they prepare, all eyes will be on their performance in Arizona, especially given the heightened expectations following a tumultuous off-season.

The Cincinnati Reds are set for an intriguing spring training with a flexible defensive alignment that could see players shifting positions as manager Terry Francona experiments. Despite Elly De La Cruz's solid hold on shortstop, Matt McLain's versatility means he could see time at both second base and centerfield. Gavin Lux is expected to transition between third and second base, also making appearances in left field.

Spencer Steer boasts the ability to play multiple positions, while Jeimer Candelario is slated for time at both third and first base. Notably, Christian Encarnacion-Strand has impressed Francona with his shape and could see increased reps at third base, a position he has rarely played. The Reds are eager to rebound from a fourth-place finish in the National League Central, banking on the health of McLain and Encarnacion-Strand, as well as new addition Brady Singer to bolster their chances for a playoff return after a three-year absence.