Reds provide huge update on Jonathan India’s injury status during spring training

Since signing his two-year, $8.8 million contract extension earlier this offseason, Reds fans have yet to see Jonathan India take the field in a spring game. But that's about to change.

According to Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer, Reds manager David Bell expects India to make his Cactus League debut on Friday when the team travels to Camelback Ranch to play the Los Angeles Dodgers.

This is great news for the Cincinnati Reds who've been without India all spring. While the former NL Rookie of the Year has been practicing with the team, a foot injury has slowed his progress. But it would now seem as though India will be ready to play in an actual game by the end of the week.

Reds provide huge update on Jonathan India’s injury status during spring training

India was the subject of much trade speculation earlier this offseason. After the Reds inked Jeimer Candelario to a three-year deal and proclaimed that there was no playing time left for longtime first baseman Joey Votto, it seemed as though India might be shown the door.

Several teams inquired as to India's availability this winter, but each attempt to secure his services was rebuffed by Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall. Cincinnati's top executive decided, instead, to eliminate any potential distractions by signing India to a two-year deal.

Things will be a bit different this season, however, as India's spot at second base is not a given. In fact, once Matt McLain returns to the field this spring, it's expected that India will become more of utility option at multiple positions. The Reds plan to use India at first and second base while also giving the career-infielder some reps on the outfield grass. Look for India to get some at-bats as the Reds' designated hitter as well.

The Reds fanbase will be excited to see India back on the field this spring. The heart and soul of this year's Reds team, India is hoping to have a bounce-back campaign in 2024 after struggling to stay on the field in 2023.

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