Spencer Steer's setback could put increased pressure on Reds' 2024 under-performers

Spencer Steer began a throwing program on Monday, but it has since been halted after experiencing a setback. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the shoulder issue that Steer had been battling this spring is still an issue.

This is unwelcome news for the Cincinnati Reds. Steer was supposed to be a key fixture in the lineup this season, and while the shoulder issue hasn't restricted his ability to field, it has kept him from the playing the field. Steer is one of the Reds' most versatile fielders, and this will no doubt affect the manner in which Terry Francona fills out his lineup card moving forward.

Steer was initially expected to play left field this season, but his limited availability this spring had already lessened the likelihood that he'd step onto the outfield grass. It was assumed that Steer would begin by playing first base and perhaps expand his role from there.

Spencer Steer's setback puts increased pressure on Jeimer Candelario, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and other Reds players

But this setback will force some of the Reds' 2024 under-performers to step up in the early-going. If Steer is limited at the outset of the 2025 season, or begins the year on the injured list, players like Jeimer Candelario and Christian Encarnacion-Strand will have to step up. Steer's (potential) absence will also put increased pressure on Gavin Lux.

Candelario was hampered by injuries last season, and eventually found his way to the IL after the All-Star break. Encarnacion-Strand couldn't even make it that deep into the season. After getting hit by a pitch barely a month into his sophomore campaign, Encarnacion-Strand landed on the IL and eventually underwent season-ending surgery.

Both Candelario and Encarnacion-Strand can handle the corner infield spots, but when it comes to the outfield, another 2024 underachiever will need to pick up the slack if Steer isn't ready to go by Opening Day.

Jake Fraley's off-the-field issues were undoubtedly weighing heavily on his mind during the 2024 season. But all reports indicate that Fraley's daughter, Avery, is doing better. Hopefully that will allow Fraley to direct his full focus onto the field this season. Fraley played in 116 games last season, but after posting a combined 112 OPS+ during his first two years with the Reds, that number dropped to 95 last season.

The hope is that Steer is full-go by Opening Day, or at least able to act as the Reds DH. But if that's not the case, Cincinnati needs one (or more) of their 2024 under-performers to play up their capabilities, something Candelario, Encarnacion-Strand, and Fraley all failed to do last season.

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