3 Reds prospects who will be called up by the All-Star break and who they'll replace

3. Reds prospect Matt McLain will replace Jose Barrero.

Matt McLain cannot stay in the minor leagues forever. After a slow start, McLain has caught fire recently and is performing at the top of his game down at Triple-A Louisville. After hitting .176 through his first 10 games with the Bats, McLain has cranked out 10 hits in his last seven games, a batting average of .417, and five extra-base hits.

McLain, who is a couple years older than Elly De La Cruz, is the more polished and patient hitter. He may not possess the same type of speed and power that De La Cruz does, but has an on-base percentage over .400 and a walk-rate over 15-percent.

Who will he replace? Unfortunately, it would seem that the Jose Barrero experience will soon be coming to an end. The 25-year-old has made some strides this season at the dish, but his defense has taken a nosedive. Is Barrero hearing the footsteps of McLain and fellow infielder Elly De La Cruz?

Now, the Reds don't necessarily have to remove Barrero from the 40-man roster, but can instead option him to Triple-A. Perhaps in doing so, the Reds will permanently move Barrero from shortstop to center field.

There's still talent there, but Jose Barrero has been incredibly inconsistent during his time in the big leagues. It's a constant dance of two steps forward, and two steps back. Barrero is still just 24 years old, so it's a bit premature to bury him just yet.