Ranking the Reds top 10 rookie performers from the 2023 season

2. Matt McLain, Reds rookie infielder

If Matt McLain didn't finish his 2023 campaign on the the injured list, he might have been the Cincinnati Reds top rookie performer this season. The former UCLA Bruin showcased a ton of talent during his first season in the major leagues.

McLain was just drafted a little over two years ago, but showed during his brief time in the minors that he was major league-ready. McLain made the jump to the bigs before Elly De La Cruz, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Noelvi Marte. McLain led all rookie in bWAR this season.

McLain occupies a very intriguing position heading into the offseason. Will he stay on the infield dirt or move to the outfield grass? Will he line up at shortstop or perhaps occupy second base? McLain is arugbaly the Reds best infield defender and offers more range at shortstop that 2021 NL Rookie fo the Year Jonathan India.

It was a shame to see Matt McLain end his rookie year on the IL, but Reds fans saw enough of the 23-year-old during his first season to know that he looks the part of a big league ballplayer for years to come. While McLain's ceiling may be lower than any other player on this list, his floor is very high.