4 players who could replace Noelvi Marte on the Reds Opening Day roster & 2 who won't

Nick Martini will still start the 2024 season in the minors

Cincinnati kept Martini on the offseason roster, and the veteran has seen most of his time this spring at first base. Martini can also play the outfield, but with Jake Fraley, TJ Friedl, and Will Benson all batting from the left side, Martini's best chance to find extended playing time is at first.

But despite the fact that Joey Votto is now in Toronto after signing a minor-league deal with the Blue Jays, Martini doesn't have a spot on the Reds Opening Day roster. Candelario, Encarnacion-Strand, and India will be the trio rotating in and out at first base. Spencer Steer can play the position as well if the Reds get that desperate.

Reds OF Bubba Thompson still has minor-league options remaining

The Reds brought Thompson back to Cincinnati after designating him for assignment earlier this offseason, so there's obviously something the front office likes about the former first-round pick. For starters, Thompson's blazing-fast speed fits well with the Reds style of play, and he can play all three outfield positions.

But that's not going to be enough to secure Thompson a spot on the Reds Opening Day roster. Thompson has minor-league options remaining and will be a depth piece down at Triple-A Lousiville in the event Cincinnati incurs a rash of injuries.