Jonathan India returns to Reds lineup, but not in his usual spot

The Cincinnati Reds have been without their leadoff hitter for the past several games. Jonathan India was sidelined with an undisclosed illness that had run through the Reds clubhouse. Jake Fraley, Jeimer Candelario, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Justin Wilson have all missed time as well.

India was said to be available on Wednesday night, but the Reds second baseman was held out of the starting lineup. That's not the case today as Cincinnati is looking to claim another series victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

But India is not leading off today. Instead, the 27-year-old will bat sixth with Will Benson taking the top spot on David Bell's lineup card.

Jonathan India returns to Reds lineup, but not in the leadoff spot

Benson will be leading off for the Reds for Thursday's day game and will be followed by Elly De La Cruz. Benson broke out of his slump on Tuesday after an 0-for-18 stretch. The Reds centerfielder mashed a home run on Wednesday night as well. Spencer Steer will bat third and play left field.

Encarancion-Strand has been heating up and will bat cleanup. Nick Martini gets a rare start in right field, suggesting that Fraley is still under the weather. India will then bat sixth and occupy the DH spot for today's series finale.

Jeimer Candelario has enjoyed more success since being bumped down in the lineup. The Reds' free agent signee will bat seventh and be followed by Santiago Espinal and Luke Maile. Espinal has been the Reds' hottest hitter this series.

Nick Martinez will take the ball for Bell, the right-hander re-enters the starting rotation after Frankie Montas landed on the 15-day IL with a forearm bruise. This will likely be start 1 of 2 for Martinez while Montas is out of commission.

The Reds have already claimed the season series over the Phillies and are hunting for their sixth win in seven games. The Reds head to Arlington following today's game for a three-game set with the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers.

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