In an unexpected twist, Spencer Steer will be on the Cincinnati Reds’ Opening Day roster. However, this comes at a cost, as the team’s free-agent signing, Austin Hays, is headed to the 10-day IL with a calf injury.
Just days ago, it was reported that Steer would start the 2025 season on the IL due to a lingering shoulder injury from 2024, which limited him to just three Cactus League games. While he has been rehabbing, his role will be restricted to designated hitter, and he may only play two out of every three games as he continues his recovery.
Hays’ absence from the Reds’ exhibition at DayAir Ballpark on Tuesday raised questions, and the radio broadcast later confirmed he was dealing with a calf issue.
Manager Terry Francona described the injury as “low grade,” suggesting Hays may not be out for long. Since the Reds can retroactively place him on the IL by three days, he could potentially miss just six games.
Reds place Austin Hays on IL, activate Spencer Steer in bizarre turn of events
In addition to the updates on Spencer Steer and Austin Hays, Reds manager Terry Francona confirmed that Jacob Hurtubise and Blake Dunn have made the Opening Day roster, which likely means Stuart Fairchild has been cut.
The final roster spot came down to those three players, and with Hays sidelined, fans can expect more outfield appearances from Santiago Espinal and Gavin Lux.
Steer will begin the season on the active roster but will be limited to designated hitter duties for now.
The Reds kick off their 2025 season on Thursday at 4:10 p.m. ET against the San Francisco Giants, with Hunter Greene set to start on the mound. Given the latest roster developments, it appears Steer will be in the Opening Day lineup as Cincinnati’s DH—a surprising turn of events with just over 24 hours until first pitch.
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