Matt McLain Makes Reds History, Becomes First Player in Franchise Spring Home Run Leaderboard
Cincinnati's Matt McLain becomes the first player in franchise history with seven home runs in spring training, setting a new record as the team looks to build on their playoff hopes.
The Cincinnati Reds are off to a stellar start this spring, and their young players have been leading the charge. After launching his seventh home run of the season on Friday night against the Chicago Cubs, Matt McLain has broken a franchise record. The 26-year-old right fielder had never hit more than five home runs in one spring before McLain's performance at Busch Stadium.
McLain, originally drafted by Cincinnati as the first pick overall in 2021, has been on a tear this season. He spent his rookie year in the California minors and made the jump to Triple-A in 2023 with impressive numbers: a . 340 batting average, .
467 slugging percentage, and an eye-popping . 688 OPS across 40 games. However, McLain’s season took a hit last year when he missed time due to a shoulder injury.
Despite the setback, the hardworking infielder bounced back strongly in spring training this year. With Sal Stewart joining him as Cincinnati's second baseman and first baseman, they're expected to be forceful contributors as the Reds look to make an impact in the upcoming regular season. The veteran shortstop Elly De La Cruz and designated hitter/third baseman Eugenio Suarez are set to lead offensively for the Reds this year.