Matt McLain's Hot Start In Spring Training, Fantasy Baseball Outlook

Mar 12, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Matt McLain against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cincinnati Reds are entering the 2026 season looking to avenge their Wild Card loss to cap off a solid 2025 campaign.

Despite an overall successful season, clinching a spot in the postseason for the first time in five years, the team noticed a dip in production from infielder Matt McLain, who struggled to build on an encouraging 2023 rookie performance. The former first-round pick played through a lingering shoulder injury throughout the 2025 season, which drastically affected his play. His performance raised concerns among fantasy baseball managers, who expected McLain to build on his rookie campaign entering his second season in the majors after missing the entire 2024 season following shoulder surgery to repair a tear in his left shoulder labrum.

McLain posted a batting average of . 220 over 147 games a season ago, racking up 73 runs, 112 hits, 15 homer runs and 50 RBIs. Aside from his average, which dropped from an efficient .

290 mark in 2023, his numbers largely replicated his rookie season, despite suiting up in 58 additional games last year. Entering the 2026 season, McLain is poised to bounce back from last season's inconsistency, offering positive updates regarding his shoulder's status. He comes into the year with elevated expectations, considering his high level of play in 2023, and could be a tremendous sleeper candidate for fantasy baseball.