3 Reds who desperately needed a hot start to spring training (and got one)

Spring training offers varying levels of opportunities. Veterans will use it to get their timing down, while young prospects are trying to prove they belong in the big leagues. Those who underperformed the year before are looking to jumpstart a bounce-back campaign, and injured players are looking to get back on track after a lost season.

We're barely a week into spring training games, and it's easy to get overly excited after seeing the promising start from the Cincinnati Reds. While it's still just an exhibition, it was terribly important for a handful of Reds players to get off to a good start this spring.

A strong performance at the outset of the Cactus League can bring with it a measure of confidence, and in some cases, propel players onto the Reds Opening Day roster. Which three Reds players needed a hot start to spring training and got it?

3 Reds who desperately needed a hot start to spring training (and got one)

Matt McLain, Reds second baseman

No player on the Reds roster needed a strong start to spring training more than McLain. Not because his roster spot was in jeopardy, but after missing an entire year, McLain needed to come into camp ready to prove that he was fully healthy.

McLain suffered a should injury last spring that sidelined him for several months, and while rehabbing, suffered an oblique injury that ended his season. McLain has already been named the Reds starting second baseman, and it's good bet that he'll be batting first or second in Cincinnati's starting lineup. Through four games, McLain is 5-for-11 with two doubles and a home run.

Jacob Hurtubise, Reds outfielder

Hurtubise has been getting some mop-up time late in games, but the West Point graduate is making the most of his opportunity. Hurtubise has appeared in four games and received just four at-bats, but he's logged three base hits, including a double. Last year's rookie has also stolen two bases.

Hurtubise could be in a battle for that final roster spot later this spring. If Spencer Steer's shoulder ailment restricts him to acting as the team's designated hitter, Francona may look to carry an extra outfielder. What Hurtbise lacks in power, he makes up for in speed and defense. If Hurtubise keeps putting the ball in play this spring, good things will happen.

Ian Gibaut, Reds pitcher

If you're on a minor-league deal, it's imperative to get off to a hot start. Gibaut has done that and looked really good doing it. The right-hander has made two appearances out of the Reds bullpen this spring and put up zeroes on the board. In two innings of work, Gibaut has allowed two hits, but no runs, while striking out three batters.

The chase for that final spot in the Reds bullpen will be fierce. If healthy, Alexis Díaz, Brent Suter, Tony Santillan, Emilio Pagán, Sam Moll, Scott Barlow, and Taylor Rogers will be on the Reds Opening Day roster. Gibaut will have to fend off the likes of Yosver Zulueta, Zach Maxwell, Alex Young, and others for that final spot. At the moment, Gibaut is the leader in the clubhouse.

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