The Cincinnati Reds enter the 2025 MLB season with a roster teeming with potential and optimism. With Elly De La Cruz, a dynamic shortstop, and Hunter Greene leading the charge, expectations are set high. Despite missing key players like Tyler Stephenson and Spencer Steer due to injuries, the Reds look to rely on their deepened rotation and the return of Matt McLain, alongside new additions like Gavin Lux and Austin Hays. Experts predict they will secure a wild card spot with win estimates ranging from 83 to 88.

Elly De La Cruz is a focal point, with predictions of him flirting with the elusive 40-40 club—projected to finish with up to 70 steals and significant home runs. However, concerns linger about his strikeout rate, with estimates still hovering above 200. The Reds are poised for a pivotal season, with aspirations to break a 30-year playoff series drought, as they aim to transform their youth and talent into postseason success.

Spencer Steer is ecstatic to secure his spot on the Cincinnati Reds' Opening Day roster despite battling a shoulder injury throughout spring training. After a pivotal meeting with manager Terry Francona, it was decided that Steer would serve as a full-time designated hitter, avoiding the injured list altogether. This decision came after Austin Hays was placed on the IL due to his own injury, reshaping the roster dynamics.

Steer has been consistently participating in at-bats against live pitching, indicating he feels ready to contribute offensively. His previous performances had made him one of the Reds' most dependable hitters, making his inclusion even more critical, especially with Tyler Stephenson also sidelined. As the Reds embark on the new season, Steer’s ability to adapt to the designated hitter role will be crucial for the team's offensive strategy.

Drafting a catcher can be a daunting task in fantasy baseball, especially when some highly drafted players may not provide the value expected. Adley Rutschman, ranked as the second catcher in drafts, struggled significantly in the second half of 2024, hitting just .207 with a poor OPS. His declining bat speed and inability to handle right-handed pitching raise concerns about his performance moving forward. Will Smith also faced challenges, with rising strikeout rates indicating a potential decline as he approached 30. J.T. Realmuto's age is showing, with decreased power and stolen bases, suggesting a shift towards younger options may be prudent. Keibert Ruiz and Tyler Stephenson present additional risks with poor performance metrics that question their fantasy viability. The catcher's landscape is shifting, encouraging fantasy managers to explore alternatives for value.

Spencer Steer, a key player for the Cincinnati Reds, will begin the season on the injured list due to a lingering shoulder issue. Steer, who has been a significant run producer over the last two seasons, was hopeful for an on-time return but ultimately has to focus on a careful rehabilitation process. Manager Terry Francona acknowledged his hard work but confirmed the need for Steer to improve his throwing delivery, which has been compromised by past injuries.

Alongside Steer, catcher Tyler Stephenson is also sidelined for an extended period due to an oblique injury, complicating the Reds' opening day roster. With limited offensive options, the Reds' planned lineup will see players like TJ Friedl and Matt McLain stepping up in the absence of these key contributors.

Jose Trevino has secured a three-year, $14.9 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, significantly increasing his annual earnings after being traded from the New York Yankees in December. The agreement grants Trevino $11.5 million in guaranteed money, ensuring his place as the Reds' starting catcher, especially with Tyler Stephenson out due to injury. Trevino is coming off a challenging season in which he hit .215 with eight home runs across 74 games, but his past accolades, including a Gold Glove and All-Star selection, highlight his potential.

This deal not only underscores Trevino's value but also positions the Reds to benefit from his experience and defensive skills during a season where they look to improve their standing in competitive MLB rankings.