Overshadowed Reds infielder blending into the background is actually a good thing

It's been no secret that Cincinnati Reds' third baseman Noelvi Marte has endured a number of struggles over the past year. Once touted as one of top prospects in all of Major League Baseball, Marte's short-lived career has not panned out — at least not yet.

Marte is not in line for the Reds' starting third base job this spring. The 23-year-old has been not been practicing with the Reds' regulars, but instead is logging time with the organization's top prospects. The Reds don't need to put pressure on Marte this spring, so instead, Cincy is taking a smoother, more convincing approach that should allow the young infielder to continue developing.

Reds' Noelvi Marte taking a step back from the spotlight isn't a bad thing

If Marte is heading into the 2025 season knowing he will start in the minor leagues, he can then approach this spring just focusing on his overall game rather than trying to make the team. Cramming and praying, for a good month of March could end up being harmful to his psyche, so taking this alternate route should benefit Cincinnati down the line.

In his 66 games at the major-league level last season, Marte hit just .210 with four home runs. The struggles bled into the Dominican Winter League last year, as Marte posted a scant .227 batting average with only two home runs across 29 contests.

Unlike some others prospects in the farm system, the Reds still have faith in Marte's ability to play in the majors. But as it stands right now, there's already a long line of players looking to man the hot corner as a new Reds' infield begins to take shape.

Gavin Lux, Jeimer Candelario, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand will all get a look at third base this spring, which means Marte can turn his focus from making the Opening Day roster and instead settle into a routine, perfect his timing at the plate, and his defense (which was awful last season).

Let's not forget that the Reds aren't just looking to compete this season, they want to win. There's plenty of excitement surrounding the club with Terry Francona as the new manager and players like Lux and Brady Singer joining the team. The Reds may need Marte by midseason or down the stretch with a playoff spot within reach, but for now, he needs to take a step back and continue developing.

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