3 Reds in danger of losing playing time when rosters expand in September

Major League Baseball rosters are about to expand from 26 to 28 players. On September 1, each team will be able to promote two additional players — one pitcher and one position player — to be part of the active roster for the final month of the season.

While non-contenders oftentimes use the additional spots to promote a pair of up-and-coming youngsters, teams that are in the playoff hunt typically take a different approach. For the Cincinnati Reds, they may be looking to add two impactful players who will actually increase their chances of winning games rather than looking to develop a pair of young prospects.

But with the additional two roster spots comes the reality that a handful of players currently on the active roster could find a seat on the bench over the final month of the season. Which three Reds players are in danger of losing playing time when rosters expand in September?

3 Reds in danger of losing playing time when rosters expand in September

Matt McLain, Reds second baseman

The prevailing thought among most Reds fans is that top prospect Sal Stewart will be called up to the major leagues next month. That may be a bit presumptuous, but it's certainly possible. If Stewart does indeed receive a big-league promotion, he'll likely take over at second base for Matt McLain. Stewart's only other professional experience is at third base, and he's not going to steal reps from the Gold Glover Ke'Bryan Hayes.

Luis Mey, Reds pitcher

When Chase Burns returns from the injured list — perhaps as soon as August 27 — the Reds may choose to move him to the bullpen. Though Luis Mey has shown flashes during his rookie campaign, the fireballer has walked far too many batters for Terry Francona's liking. He'll likely take on a lesser role in the Reds bullpen or could even be optioned back to Triple-A altogether.

Santiago Espinal, Reds infielder

Santiago Espinal's role with the team has already taken a hit. After Cincinnati traded for Hayes at the July 31 deadline, the need to constantly replace Noelvi Marte at third base late in games evaporated. Much like McLain, Espinal's playing time will take a major hit if Stewart is added to the Reds roster in September. Ryan Vilade is another name to watch out for when roster expand, and he could take reps away from Espinal as well.

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