2 Reds prospects who could lose their 40-man roster spots and 2 prospects who could replace them

Reds prospect Christian Encarnacion-Strand could be added to the 40-man roster.

Christian Encarnacion-Strand isn't a "lock" to get the nod this season. But if the Cincinnati Reds are out of contention after the All-Star break, one could see Encarnacion-Strand getting called up to the big leagues later this summer.

While he had a successful college career and absolutely decimated the competition in the minors last season, Encarnacion-Strand is still a little raw. That's especially true on defense, as the Reds are trying to swtich Encarnacion-Strand from third to first base.

That's not necessarily an easy transisition, and it's certainly one that the Reds can take their time with. While Joey Votto is still on the IL, Cincinnati has Wil Myers, Tyler Stephenson, and even Spencer Steer taking turns at first base during the early-going of the 2023 season.

If the Reds don't have a spot in the everyday lineup for Encarnacion-Strand, there's no need to rush the 23-year-old to the major leagues. But, the team will still have to select Encarnacion-Strand's contract and add him to the 40-man roster prior to his call-up.

Christian Encarnacion-Strand has the makings of a middle-of-the-order bat, and with his experience at the hot corner, the Oklahoma State alum could find tremendous success at first base as well. All of Reds Country is excited to see Encarnacion-Strand in the big leagues. Don't worry, he'll be up soon.