The word tweener usually carries a negative meaning in sports. It describes a player who has useful skills but doesn’t quite fit into a defined position. Yet in certain cases, being a tweener can actually turn into an asset—and that may be what the Cincinnati Reds are discovering with Spencer Steer.
Not long ago, Steer was viewed as a possible cornerstone for the franchise. But after some underwhelming results at the plate, he now faces the possibility of top prospect Sal Stewart overtaking him at first base.
That’s the dilemma for Steer. His career 103 wRC+ puts him right around league average offensively, which is underwhelming production from a first baseman. He has outfield experience, but his career defensive numbers—specifically -7 outs above average across more than 1,100 innings in the corners—suggest he’d be a defensive liability if used there every day. So the question becomes: is “tweener” simply a reflection of his lack of a true defensive home, or can it be reframed as a strength?
Spencer Steer’s future role may change the Reds offseason plans
If the Reds want to contend in the highly competitive NL Central next year, they’ll need more offense. They sit just above average in runs scored (14th overall), but their collective 92 wRC+ ranks 23rd in MLB.
One possible solution could be Stewart, who has hit .261/.303/.543 through his first 15 big league games. If he sticks, the infield would largely be settled, with Cincinnati counting on steadier play from Elly De La Cruz, a rebound season from Matt McLain, and Ke’Bryan Hayes’ elite defense balancing out his lighter bat.
That leaves the outfield as the main area to address. Noelvi Marte looks capable of handling right, while TJ Friedl may be the best option in center given the Reds’ budget. Left field, then, is the most likely spot for improvement.
Enter Spencer Steer. The 27-year-old has been on fire since late August, slashing .300/.382/.650 with six homers since August 24. His current 1.032 OPS isn’t sustainable, but if he closes the season strong, he could make a case that he’s closer to the 118 wRC+ hitter he was in 2023.
If that’s the case, Cincinnati could feel comfortable letting Austin Hayes walk, confident that Steer’s bat can offset his defensive shortcomings in left. Alternatively, the Reds could aim bigger in the outfield market and shift Steer into a super-utility role, covering first base and the corners.
With Gavin Lux also providing versatility, the Reds could have two players who would be everyday starters elsewhere but serve as valuable do-it-all pieces in Cincinnati. Having one is useful—having two would be a major asset.
There are plenty of possibilities, but Steer’s performance could give the Reds the flexibility they need to put the roster together in a way that makes them a real challenger to the Brewers and Cubs in 2026.
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