Noelvi Marte’s epic catch just changed everything about his future role with the Reds

The Cincinnati Reds took a calculated risk earlier this season. Looking to upgrade their overall infield defense, the Reds made a deadline deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates for Gold Glove Award-winner Ke'Bryan Hayes. The slick-fielding third baseman is likely to take home his second Gold Glove Award later this year.

The trade, however, posed a problem for Reds manager Terry Francona. How would he keep Noelvi Marte's in the lineup? The former top prospect had bounced back following a dreadful showing in 2024, but his defense was a problem. Prior to the Hayes' trade, Marte was hitting .276/.329/.500 with a 123 wRC+, but was worth -4 defensive runs saved (DRS).

Francona made the bold decision, thanks in large part to Reds first base coach Collin Cowgill, to move Marte from third base into the outfield. Based on the numbers — and Marte's season-saving catch on Thursday at Great American Ball Park — fans can expect him to be the team's starting right fielder moving forward.

Noelvi Marte’s epic catch all but solidified his future role with the Reds

By now, every Reds fan has probably seen Marte's game-saving catch over a dozen times. While nursing a 2-1 lead during the top of the ninth inning of Thursday's series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Emilio Pagán's 3-0 pitch to Bryan Reynolds was sent a ball deep into right field.

Marte drifted back, found his positioning against the wall, leapt into the air, and robbed Reynolds of a game-tying homer. Marte's exuberance was palpable as he ran toward his teammate TJ Frield while smiling ear to ear. The Reds locked down the victory and head into the weekend series against the Milwaukee Brewers just one game out of the final NL Wild Card spot.

The Reds have seen numerous players occupy right field over the past few seasons, but no one's really laid claim to the position since the days of Jay Bruce back during the mid-2010s. The Reds are hoping Marte's the exception, and will turn into an above-average right fielder in the years to come.

Marte's bat already profiles for right field, and based on that outstanding grab on Thursday, it looks like his glove will stick out there as well.

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