2 truths and 1 lie about the Cincinnati Reds season so far

Reds truth: Jonathan India is back, baby!

There were two Cincinnati Reds who needed to bounce back in 2023; Tyler Stephenson and Jonathan India needed to prove that 2022 was a fluke. So far, India has returned to that level of play that saw him win the NL Rookie of the Year in 2021. But even more important, perhaps, India has emerged as the leader of this year's team.

India was slowed by injuries in 2022. The 26-year-old came into last season looking to prove that he could be a power hitter. A bulked up India injured his hamstring barely a week into the season and struggled to stay healthy throughout his sophomore season.

To being this season, India is hitting .389/.500/.667 and has three extra-base hits and a stolen base. The former Florida Gator is also batting leadoff and setting the tone from the outset.

When you watch India on a regular basis, he's atop the dugout steps, cheering on his teammates. After a home run, India is the first one to greet them and crown them with the team's new trend of the Viking helmet and cape.

Jonathan India is back, baby! After the Cincinnati Reds parted company with nearly every veteran player last season and Joey Votto entering the final year of his contract, there is a void when it comes to leadership within the organization. India seems primed to take that mantle in 2023.