5 Reds who can't afford to waste the final 6 weeks of the season

The Cincinnati Reds have not been eliminated from postseason contention, but their chances of returning to the playoffs in 2026 are dwindling by the day. Barring an unfathomable turnaround, the Reds seemed destined to miss the playoffs, meaning the attention of the fanbase (and the front office) will soon turn to 2027.

While the impending collective bargaining negotiations have put a cloud of controversy over next season, teams have to operate as if the 2027 campaign will start on time. As such, the Reds have some decisions to make before Opening Day next year, and these last six weeks could prove to be crucial for at least five players on the Reds roster.

5 Reds with everything to prove before Cincinnati turns the page to 2027

Noelvi Marte, Reds outfielder

Once Spencer Steer hit the injured list, right field belonged to Noelvi Marte. But earlier this month, the Reds decided to increase the pressure, and promoted Héctor Rodríguez to the big leagues. So far, those two have shared time in the outfield, but if Marte wants to prove that the job should be his heading into next season, he needs to improve both his defense (-4 OAA) and his chase rate (40.9%).

TJ Friedl, Reds outfielder

Given his reduction in playing time, it's going to be difficult for TJ Friedl to prove that he should be part of the Reds' long-term plans. Few players on the roster have struggled more than Friedl, and he looks more and more like a non-tender candidate with each passing day. A strong finish could sway the Reds' front office to reconsider, but he'll need to be more than a late-inning defensive replacement.

Matt McLain, Reds second baseman

The pressure on Matt McLain isn't as intense as the aforementioned duo of Marte and Friedl, but he can't afford to lallygag down the stretch. Every Reds fans knows McLain's value as a defender, but his bat has been abysmal this season. His 11.2% walk rate has helped his on-base percentage, but the team needs more. McLain may never return to his 2023 form, but he has to contribute more than a .624 OPS to remain in the starting lineup next season.

Edwin Arroyo, Reds infielder

It may be a bit unfair to include Edwin Arroyo's name on this list. After all, he's not even on the 26-man roster. But with roster expanding next month, the rookie will likely get a second chance to prove himself at the Major League level. Arroyo's first taste of the big leagues didn't yield the best results, and if he fails to gain any traction during the second half of the season, he'll be in an awkward spot heading into next season.

Nick Lodolo, Reds pitcher

First, Nick Lodolo needs to complete his rehab assignment and return to the active roster. Once that happens, the lefty needs to prove that his new slider grip can allow him to stay off the IL while still being effective. Lodolo's career, much like Hunter Greene's, has been defined by injury. There were questions about whether or not the Reds were going to trade Lodolo this past offseason. This winter will simply be about whether or not he can stay healthy (again).

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow