Reds News: Matt McLain's return in question, Jake Fraley's injury, Speedway Classic

The Cincinnati Reds fell behind early on Friday night at American Family Field and were never able to get back into game. After giving up eight runs to the Milwaukee Brewers in the first three innings, the Reds were unable to close the gap and fell by a final score of 8-3.

Starting pitcher Carson Spiers gave up eight runs on seven hits, including a pair of home runs. But it was the walks that haunted the right-hander. Spiers allowed four free passes over five innings in the Reds loss.

But the loss wasn't the only bad thing to happen to the Reds on Friday night. Cincinnati received an unfortunate update on infielder Matt McLain and also lost one of their own to injury. The latest Reds news is not good.

Reds News: Matt McLain's rehab assignment postponed

McLain was scheduled to begin a rehab assignment next week at Triple-A. But the Reds infielder suffered a setback and his rehab assignment has been delayed. There's no timetable for McLain's return to the diamond.

One has to wonder if McLain will even make it back at any point this season. Last year's rookie was hoping to return to the big leagues before the of the year, but that seems to be in jeopardy after this latest complication.

Reds News: Jake Fraley lifted after suffering ankle injury

According to MLB.com's Mark Sheldon, Jake Fraley suffered a sprained ankle on Friday night. The Reds' right fielder was hustling out of the box on an infield ground ball, but stumbled and limped down the first base line in the top of the second inning.

Fraley stayed in the game for a couple more innings, but was eventually lifted in favor of Stuart Fairchild. Reports suggest that Fraley will be back in the lineup on Saturday night, but there's always the possibility that the injury could warrant an IL stint.

Reds News: Speedway Classic vs. Braves is set for August 2, 2025

It was reported earlier this week that the Reds will face the Atlanta Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway sometime during the 2025 regular season. On Friday, Major League Baseball revealed that the game will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the legendary race track.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors