Reds' slugger strangely omitted as option to replace Noelvi Marte at third base

The Cincinnati Reds seem to be searching (internally) for a new third baseman heading into next season. After Noelvi Marte’s suspension and subsequent disappointing 2024 campaign, Cincinnati is reportedly auditioning a slew of players at the hot corner, according to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer. One likely candidate, though, did not merit a mention. Could the Reds be overlooking Christian Encarnacion-Strand?

The slugger, who was acquired alongside Spencer Steer in a 2022 trade, spent most of his time in the Minnesota Twins’ farm system manning third base. Only upon joining Cincinnati did he move to first. As fate would have it, Encarnacion-Strand’s promotion to Triple-A Louisville coincided with a rehab stint for Reds legend Joey Votto. The elder statesman mentored Encarnacion-Strand and helped him become comfortable at first base.

When Encarnacion-Strand joined the Reds, his bat drew most of the attention. After all, who wouldn’t want to see 450-foot blasts shooting out of Great American Ball Park? But his powerful arm and decent glovework also warranted a mention.

Christian Encarnacion-Strand was conspicuously absent from the Reds' list of potential third base options for 2025

So why wouldn’t Encarnacion-Strand be given a chance to compete for the gig at third? Well, for one thing, the Reds have already seen what a strong arm and average fielding can do at the hot corner. Encarnacion-Strand and Marte received similar scouting grades for their defense: 60 and 55 for arm and 45 and 50 for glove, respectively. Still, Marte’s defense was the subject of considerable criticism this year. Marte’s -11 outs above average ranked dead last in the majors among third basemen. A strong arm and a steady glove do not guarantee success.

Secondly, Encarnacion-Strand may be needed to hold down first base. Jeimer Candelario, the Reds’ big free-agent signing prior to 2024, has been a bust. He’s a defensive liability, and his bat generated a -10 run value last season. If the Reds can find a suitable trade partner, they could off-load his contract and keep Encarnacion-Strand in the everyday lineup.

Most importantly, though, Encarnacion-Strand underwent surgery on his right hand, which sustained fractures and ligament damage thanks to an early season HBP. All previous valuations of his play at third base, a position that requires clean transfers and precise throws, should go out the window. Perhaps he’ll eventually get a few reps during his stint in the Arizona Fall League; although, in the first game, he stuck to DH. Why stress a reconstructed hand when you can plug him in over at first?

Regardless of how the third base competition shakes out, the Reds are making the right move by keeping Encarnacion-Strand out of the conversation.

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