Matt McLain’s move down in the Reds lineup could set up a game-changing call-up

The Cincinnati Reds are about to open a crucial three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies, and manager Terry Francona has reshuffled the lineup just a little bit. Matt McLain, who usually bats second, will be hitting eighth on Monday night against the Phillies. First baseman Spencer Steer will take McLain's spot, and now be taking his hacks behind leadoff hitter TJ Friedl and ahead of All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz.

Though McLain has played better of late, the former first-round pick is still lacking that power that made him such a force during his rookie campaign with the Reds in 2023. It's quite likely that the lingering effects from the shoulder injury that McLain suffered in 2024 have contributed to his poor performance this season.

The Reds, however, can't just wait around for his power to return while they're in the midst of a playoff race. Cincinnati is just 1½ games out of the final Wild Card spot heading into play on Monday, and one has to wonder if McLain being bumped down in the lineup is a precursor to the Reds calling up their top prospect Sal Stewart.

Matt McLain’s move down in the Reds lineup could set up a game-changing call-up for Sal Stewart

The 21-year-old Stewart has played in just 21 games at the Triple-A level, but is already turning heads in the organization. Since being promoted to the Louisville Bats last month, Stewart is hitting .313/.371/.588 with 10 doubles and four home runs.

That type of production might be invaluable for the Reds down the stretch, and if McLain fails to catch fire over the next week, Cincinnati's front office may have to make a call. Teams looking to cash in on the Prospect Promotion Incentive only need to wait a few more days in order for their top prospects to maintain their rookie status heading into 2026.

Stewart has been getting in some extra reps in at second base lately, and McLain was even replaced by Gavin Lux at the keystone on Sunday afternoon against the Pittsburgh Pirates. McLain — much like Austin Hays, Jake Fraley, and Santiago Espinal — may become an onlooker in the next few weeks with Francona now laser-focused on winning every game.

The Reds skipper has spoken time and time again about focusing on the one game in front of them, and he obviously felt on Monday that slotting Steer (instead of McLain) ahead of De La Cruz gave his team the best opportunity to win. If that same sense of urgency strikes the Reds front office, Stewart could be on his way to the big leagues in short order.

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