As spring training kicked off this week in Arizona, Cincinnati Reds fans were met with familiar frustration. In a concerning echo of their injury-ridden 2024 season, the team announced that Rhett Lowder and Spencer Steer would have restricted workloads. However, setbacks for some create opportunities for others, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand might be ready to seize his chance.
Much like Graham Ashcraft on the pitching side, Encarnacion-Strand was once seen as a rising star but now finds himself without a clear role. The corner infielder has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, preventing him from securing a permanent spot in the Reds’ lineup. Since his MLB debut in July 2023, he has appeared in only 92 games.
As Reds infielder Spencer Steer continues to rehab his shoulder, Christian Encarnacion-Strand has a golden opportunity
Spencer Steer was expected to be the primary option at first base in 2025, but with the outfield too crowded for regular playing time, his lingering shoulder injury has limited him to a designated hitter role for now. This opens the door for Christian Encarnacion-Strand (CES) to make a strong case for a roster spot with a solid spring.
When healthy, CES boasts some of the best raw power on the team. His swing is a perfect fit for Great American Ball Park, and if he can stay on the field, he has the potential to be a 30-homer threat. On a Reds roster that has emphasized speed over power in recent seasons, his bat would add a much-needed dimension.
Staying healthy, however, has been a challenge. Before reaching the majors, CES dealt with a concussion in the Twins’ organization and a herniated disc. His most serious setback came in April 2024 when a pitch fractured his wrist and damaged ligaments in his hand, requiring surgery and costing him the season.
The positive news is that two of his injuries were freak accidents, and the herniated disc hasn’t been an issue since early 2023. His performance in the Arizona Fall League suggests he has recovered well, meaning there’s little reason to label him injury-prone moving forward.
The Reds also appear confident in Encarnacion-Strand’s ability, as he remains in the mix at both first and third base. That bodes well for the young slugger’s chances of a breakout season in 2025.
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