Ex-Reds top prospect is struggling with more than just defense during spring training

After a tumultuous 2024 campaign that saw Cincinnati Reds third baseman Noelvi Marte suspended for 80 games due to a violation of MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, 2025 was supposed to be his clean slate. A chance to reestablish himself as one of the league’s brightest young infielders. A season to put it all together and showcase what made him such a promising prospect. But as spring training unfolds, Marte is off to anything but a fresh start.

With 15 at-bats across eight games, he has managed just one hit while striking out seven times, a staggering 41% strikeout rate. For a player expected to be an offensive catalyst, those numbers are concerning.

And while spring training statistics can often be misleading, they can also tell a story about where a player stands heading into the season. Right now, Marte’s struggles are writing a script no one in the Reds organization wants to read.

Noelvi Marte's slow start could be a sign of deeper struggles for the Reds infielder

When the Reds acquired Marte from the Seattle Mariners in 2022 as a key piece in the return from the Luis Castillo trade, they envisioned a cornerstone third baseman. His 2023 MLB stint offered some hope, as he hit .316/.366/.456 with three home runs, 15 RBI, and six stolen bases over 35 games. The tools were evident, and his ceiling remained high.

This season was supposed to be his bounce back year of sorts—a year where he can cement himself in the Reds' long-term plans. As of right now Marte is letting that opportunity slip.

Marte is still just 23 years old, blessed with the power-speed combo that could make him a consistent 20-20 threat for years to come. He was once blocked by everyday starters in Seattle, and his trade to Cincinnati gave him a clear path to playing time. Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall made it clear that the franchise viewed him as an everyday third baseman.

But Krall also didn’t hand him the job. "He’s got plenty of work to do," he emphasized. And with Jeimer Candelario and Santiago Espinal outperforming him in camp, Marte’s Opening Day roster spot is far from guaranteed.

With several weeks left in spring training, Marte still has time to adjust and silence the critics. The talent is undeniable, but the Reds won’t hesitate to start him in Triple-A Louisville if his struggles persist. The Reds need Marte to succeed. But right now, it's up to him to prove he's ready.

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