Cincinnati Reds Insider Reveals 2026 Plans for Matt McLain & Gavin Lux | MLB News, Trade Rumors

Cincinnati Reds Insider Reveals 2026 Plans for Matt McLain & Gavin Lux | MLB News, Trade Rumors

Nick Kirby and Craig Sandlin break down a new report from Mark Sheldon detailing the Cincinnati Reds’ infield plans for 2026, including Matt McLain being viewed as the primary second baseman and Gavin Lux projected as a utility infielder. They discuss whether the Reds are handling those roles correctly and how the rest of the infield picture fits together, including Sal Stewart, Spencer Steer, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Ke’Bryan Hayes.

The guys also dive into the latest Reds and MLB news, including the Reds signing right-hander Yunior Marte to a minor-league deal after a dominant 2025 season in Japan, where he posted a 1.95 ERA with the Chunichi Dragons. Marte last pitched in MLB with the Phillies in 2024 and can earn $1.05 million if he makes the Opening Day roster.

Additional topics include a report from The Athletic that the Reds are still searching for bullpen help, possible trade scenarios involving starting pitching, ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Reds’ local TV situation, and updates on recent waiver activity. They also discuss the latest Redsfest confirmations, Edwin Arroyo’s hot start in Puerto Rico, and reports that the Pirates are showing interest in Eugenio Suárez.

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The Cincinnati Reds enter the 2026 offseason at a crossroads, balancing internal development, roster flexibility, and the need to remain competitive in a crowded National League Central. After a season defined by injuries, inconsistency, and flashes of upside, the Reds’ front office has emphasized depth, versatility, and optionality rather than dramatic, payroll-stretching moves.

One of the biggest storylines of the offseason revolves around the Reds’ infield alignment. According to reporting from Mark Sheldon, Matt McLain is viewed internally as the primary second baseman heading into 2026. That designation signals confidence in McLain’s ability to lock down a regular role, but it also places pressure on his health and performance after an injury-affected season. McLain’s athleticism and offensive upside remain key components of the Reds’ long-term plan, and his ability to stabilize second base could have ripple effects across the rest of the roster.

Gavin Lux, meanwhile, is expected to fill a utility role, providing coverage across multiple infield spots. That flexibility gives the Reds protection against injuries and underperformance while also allowing them to mix and match lineups depending on matchups. How often Lux plays — and where — will be one of the most closely watched tactical decisions of the season.

Beyond McLain and Lux, the Reds’ infield picture remains crowded and intriguing. Spencer Steer continues to be one of the most versatile players on the roster, capable of contributing both in the infield and outfield. Christian Encarnacion-Strand remains a power-focused option whose defensive role will continue to be monitored, while Ke’Bryan Hayes brings elite defensive value if healthy. Sal Stewart represents the next wave, with the organization continuing to evaluate when and how his bat fits into the big-league mix.

On the pitching side, the Reds have taken a familiar approach: adding depth while preserving flexibility. The signing of right-hander Yunior Marte to a minor-league deal fits that mold perfectly. Marte dominated in Japan in 2025, posting a 1.95 ERA with the Chunichi Dragons, and brings upper-90s velocity with a deep pitch mix. If he earns a spot on the Opening Day roster, he can make up to $1.05 million — a low-risk, high-reward move that reflects the Reds’ broader bullpen philosophy.

Despite that addition, bullpen help remains a priority. Reports from The Athletic suggest the Reds are still actively exploring relief options, with veterans such as Pierce Johnson mentioned as possible fits. The organization is clearly aware that bullpen inconsistency hurt them in recent seasons and that contending teams must be able to shorten games late.

Starting pitching remains both a strength and a potential trade lever. While the Reds are not interested in moving cornerstone arms like Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, or Andrew Abbott, they have shown openness to discussions involving other starters — provided they can replace the innings. That stance underscores how highly the organization values pitching depth and durability, especially in a division where run prevention often dictates success.