Reds starting lineup for spring opener vs Guardians features odd infield alignment

Welcome back, Reds Country! The Cincinnati Reds will be back on the diamond this afternoon for the team's spring opener against the Cleveland Guardians at Goodyear Ballpark in Arizona.

There is a level of excitement around this year's Reds squad that hasn't been felt in over a decade. Cincinnati is looking to use the groundswell of momentum from last year's 82-win season to propel them back to the postseason in 2024.

Manager David Bell has set the Reds starting lineup for today's Cactus League game versus the Guardians, and while there are sure to be some unfamiliar faces that see the field today, most of the names you already know.

Reds starting lineup for spring opener vs Guardians

Cincinnati will send rookie pitcher Carson Spiers to the hill for today's spring opener. Spiers had a cup of coffee with the Reds in 2023 and while he's likely ticketed to begin the 2024 season as part of the Louisville Bats rotation, the right-hander is hopeful to carve out a role with the big league club before spring training is over.

TJ Friedl will lead things off for the Reds today with Elly De La Cruz and Jeimer Candelario to follow. Jake Fraley will bat cleanup and play right field with Tyler Stephenson hanging the signs for Spiers this afternoon.

Will Benson will play left field and bat sixth with Josh Harrison starting at second base ahead of both Matt McLain and Jonathan India. Both McLain and India are nursing injuries this spring and are unlikely to take the field against the Guardians today.

Nick Martini gets a surprising start at first base instead of Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Austin Wynns, who is a catcher by trade, will be the Reds designated hitter for the spring opener.

Baseball is back! Enjoy the game, Reds fans. First pitch is slated for 3:05 p.m. ET.