Way-too-early Reds 2024 Opening Day roster predictions

The 2023 season is officially over. That means that all 30 major league teams can turn their attention to the offseason and roster construction for the 2024 season.

The Cincinnati Reds would appear to have most of their 2024 Opening Day roster already in place, but there are some areas of concern that Nick Krall and the front office will need to address this winter.

It's never too early to make some predictions about next year's Opening Day roster, right? As the offseason begins to unfold, let's look at a way-too-early Reds 2024 Opening Day roster prediction.

Way-too-early Reds 2024 Opening Day starting lineup (9)

Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, Noelvi Marte, Spencer Steer, TJ Friedl, Randal Grichuk, Tyler Stephenson, Jake Fraley

The Cincinnati Reds 2024 starting lineup, for all intents and purposes, is virtually set. Last year's rookie quartet of Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Noelvi Marte are almost sure to start on Opening Day next season.

Spencer Steer will no doubt be part of next year's Opening Day lineup as well, and so will TJ Friedl. Reds fans may see more of Steer in left field in 2024, but last year's rookie will also get plenty of looks on the infield dirt as well.

Tyler Stephenson will likely return in 2024, and it'll be a prove-it year of sorts for the former first-round pick. After limiting his opportunities behind the plate this past season, Stephenson will likely be reinserted as the team's QB1 on Opening Day.

Jake Fraley will see time in right field and as the team's designated hitter. But the Reds could certainly use some punch from the right side as well.

Perhaps a free agent signing like Randal Grichuk makes sense. The veteran put up very good numbers against left-handed pitching last season (.328/.388/.607) and could be a solid addition to next year's Reds team.

Finally, you'll notice that Jonathan India is not part of these way-too-early roster predictions. India could be be a hot commodity this offseason and may very well be traded before Opening Day next season.