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Terry Francona's perfect comparison increases pressure on Reds' infielder Matt McLain

Matt's back!
ByAbigail Miskowiec|
Cincinnati Reds shortstop Matt McLain (9) takes the field at the Cincinnati Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Ariz., on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025.
Cincinnati Reds shortstop Matt McLain (9) takes the field at the Cincinnati Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Ariz., on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

At times this offseason, it has seemed that the Cincinnati Reds’ fortunes will directly correlate with Matt McLain’s return from injury. If he steps up, they could be division contenders; if he falls flat, few other players seem ready to pick up the mantle. Luckily, Reds manager Terry Francona sees greatness in the young infielder, comparing him to Dustin Pedroia.

The comparison between McLain and Pedroia isn’t too far-fetched. Both are diminutive Californians who became the 77th-best prospect in baseball (Baseball Prospectus and Baseball America, respectively).

Their celebrated rookie seasons at the age of 23 are fairly similar: McLain hit .290/.357/.507 with 3.7 bWAR, while Pedroia hit .317/.380/.442 with 3.9 bWAR. Reds fans will hope the similarities continue.

Reds manager Terry Francona’s comparison may propel Matt McLain to new heights

Francona also mentioned that McLain will have a chance to cement his place at second base this season, just as Pedroia did after an unsuccessful trial at short. A season of health and positional security could make McLain into one of the best second basemen in the league, which would be quite the salve after the Reds’ tortuous relationship with Jonathan India dissolved this offseason.

Reds fans will also hope McLain follows in Pedroia’s footsteps. The Red Sox infielder led Boston to a World Series title in his rookie season and followed that with an MVP Award in 2008. I’m not sure anyone is predicting such lofty heights for McLain and the Reds, but McLain can emulate Pedroia’s work ethic and grind.

Francona has been consistent in his messaging to and about the Reds’ young squad. This is a talented group, but they need discipline and fundamentals. McLain has proven his resilience and drive in his return from injury. Those are the qualities that most link him to Pedroia, and those are the intangibles that will take the team – and its young stars – to greatness.

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