Matt McLain's top priority for 2025 season is shared by the entire Reds fanbase

When Matt McLain burst onto the scene in 2023, it was only three weeks before the arrival of Cincinnati Reds phenom Elly De La Cruz. In just 89 games, McLain made a statement posting a .290/.357/.864 slash line, launched 16 home runs, drove in 50 RBI, and swiped 14 bases, all before a strained oblique cut his season short. His impact was undeniable, had he played a full season, he was well on pace for a 20-20 campaign.

Then came the setback. McLain missed the entire 2024 season recovering from shoulder surgery, sidelining him while the Reds continued to build toward contention. Now, fully healthy and eager to prove that his 2023 performance was no fluke, he’s making his long-awaited return. However, his role in Cincinnati has changed.

McLain debuted as a shortstop, but with De La Cruz now firmly entrenched in that role, he’ll shift to second base, taking over for Jonathan India, who is now with the Kansas City Royals. While McLain is an exceptional athlete with strong defensive instincts, the transition won’t be seamless. He’s admitted that aside from a few reps in high school, he hasn’t played second base regularly.

Reds fans can't wait to see Matt McLain back on the field in 2025

Reds fans should anticipate growing pains, both in working alongside the rangy, athletic De La Cruz and in shaking off the rust from a year-long layoff. Expectations should be tempered early on. If McLain explodes out of the gate, fantastic. But if it takes him a month or so to find his rhythm, that really shouldn’t be a cause for concern.

If McLain resembles the player we saw in 2023, the Reds will boast one of the most dynamic middle infield pairings in the National League. De La Cruz is already one of the sport’s most exciting young talents, and if McLain finds his form, this duo will be the heartbeat of Cincinnati’s offense and defense.

Health will be the determining factor, but the ceiling is undeniably high. With a full season ahead of him, McLain has the potential to not only replicate but exceed his rookie numbers. His versatility, power-speed combination, and steady approach at the plate make him an invaluable piece of the Reds’ roster. Pair that with De La Cruz’s athleticism, and you have a duo capable of leading the team to October baseball.

Matt McLain's top priority for 2025 season is shared by the entire Reds fanbase

"If we have everyone healthy, everyone can get rolling at the same time," McLain said. "There's no reason this team shouldn't be in it deep into October." Sure, that’s something every player says, but there’s real substance behind his words. Unfortunately, McLain's sentiments have already been met with pessimism following the news that both Tyler Stephenson and Spencer Steer are likely to open the year on IL.

The NL Central isn’t locked down by the Milwaukee Brewers anymore. The Chicago Cubs have improved, but there’s no runaway favorite. The division is wide open, and the Reds have a legitimate shot, especially if McLain and De La Cruz thrive together up the middle.

With talent, youth, and a new direction under Francona, Cincinnati is on the verge of something special. And if McLain picks up where he left off, the Reds might just be October’s biggest surprise.

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