Is Christian Encarnacion-Strand Ready for Cincinnati Reds' First Base Role?

The Cincinnati Reds face pivotal decisions as they look to improve their first base production, which lagged 27% below league average in OPS+ during 2024. This episode examines whether Christian Encarnacion-Strand should be the Reds' opening day first baseman in 2025, despite his struggles and injuries. Hosts Jeff and Steve weigh the pros and cons of pursuing a free agent like Christian Walker and explore potential infield configurations involving Spencer Steer, Elly De La Cruz, and Jonathan India. They also analyze Ty France's future with the team, considering his projected $9 million arbitration salary and underwhelming performance. Don't miss out on this in-depth discussion about the Cincinnati Reds' strategic moves for 2025—listen now to gain valuable insights into the team's potential lineup and player decisions. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOReds?sid=YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnReds?sub_confirmation=1 BECOME AN INSIDER with Locked On Reds: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonreds Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnMLB BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Inside the Reds! https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/ VOTE FOR BRENT SUTER: https://www.mlb.com/mlb-together/roberto-clemente-day Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter JOIN THE DISCORD SERVER: https://discord.gg/STMcRDyMCt 0:00 Santiago Espinal's Role for Reds 10:41 Reds' Outfield Needs and Options 21:43 Jake Fraley's Future with the Reds For your next listen, check out the Locked On MLB podcast. Prepare for the Fall Classic with Sully, who has it all covered every single day. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to win $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup. PrizePicks. Run Your Game.Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel You can start the season with a big return on FanDuel. Place your first FIVE DOLLAR bet and you’ll get started with TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS - guaranteed ! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) #Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.