Way-too-early Reds 2025 starting lineup projection with Terry Francona as new manager

Okay, we haven't officially reached the offseason yet, but the Cincinnati Reds fanbase is already excited for the 2025 season. The Reds lit the spark that ignited a flurry of support for next year's squad after hiring Terry Francona to be the team's new manager. There's an excitement throughout Reds Country that hasn't been felt in over a decade.

And while Reds fans should probably temper expectations just a bit, the prospect of having an experienced manager who's won two World Series titles sitting in the Cincinnati dugout has fans unable to contain their excitement.

Projecting the Reds 2025 starting lineup with Terry Francona as Cincy's new manager

Now it's up to the front office and ownership to piece together a playoff-caliber roster. Cincinnati already has plenty of talent, and perhaps all they need is new voice to lead. That said, a couple of free agent additions or offseason trades could turn next year's team into a contender. What might Francona's Opening Day lineup card look like?

Tyler Stephenson, Reds catcher

There are two players who are locked into their specific roles heading into the 2025 season. One is Elly De La Cruz and the other is Tyler Stephenson. The Reds' QB1 asserted himself as one of the better offensive-minded catchers in the league and even improved his defense as well. The Reds appear to have finally found their 'catcher of the future', and it's time to sign Stephenson to a contract extension this winter.

Spencer Steer, Reds first baseman

The Reds have a tremendous asset in Spencer Steer. The former Minnesota Twins farmhand can play all over the diamond, and spent most of last season in left field. Though Steer gave a valiant effort, he's a much better defender on the infielder dirt. While some will argue for Christian Encarnacion-Strand to be the Reds' first baseman (and there's certainly merit to that idea as well), for now, the nod goes to Steer.

Jonathan India, Reds second baseman

Questions still remain about Jonathan India's future in Cincinnati. The Reds have India under contract through next season, and he still has one more year of arbitration remaining after that. Could India be traded this winter? Of course. But after vocalizing the team's need to find a manager who can hold everyone accountable, it be a shame to see India dealt with Francona now set to lead this Reds team in 2025. India's defense was also much better in 2024 than in years past. Other options at second base would be Santiago Espinal and Matt McLain — more on that later.

Elly De La Cruz, Reds shortstop

De La Cruz put forth an impressive performance in 2024 and will look to improve upon it next season. Though the strikeouts were concerning and the defense a bit rough around the edges, the talent is there. The Reds have already declared that De La Cruz will be the team's starting shortstop in 2025, so there's little need for discussion beyond that.

Eugenio Suárez, Reds third baseman

Assuming that the Arizona Diamondbacks fail to exercise Eugenio Suárez's team-option for next season, the Reds should look to reunite with their former All-Star. Geno plays defense at a high level, and that power-hitting right-handed bat that Reds fans continue to clamor for could be available in free agency during the offseason.

TJ Friedl, Reds left fielder

TJ Friedl is solid defender in center field, but could become an above-average fielder in left. The Reds' table-setter in 2023, Friedl dealt with a bevy of injuries in 2024. Where Friedl fits in Francona's lineup will be an interesting story to follow, as the 29-year-old found himself batting cleanup far too often for David Bell last season.

Matt McLain, Reds centerfielder

Big changes could be coming for Matt McLain. The Reds have their shortstop in De La Cruz, and now it's time to find a permanent home for McLain. While it's certainly possible that the former first-round pick could line up at second base, moving McLain to the outfield might be the most prudent thing to do if the Reds sign a big bat to take over at third base. McLain has experience in center field, and has already mentioned a willingness to switch positions.

Jake Fraley, Reds right fielder

Right field is an area where Cincinnati could use an upgrade. That said, most of the top free agents available will looking to sign mega-deals this offseason. Teoscar Hernandez and Anthony Santander are options, but it's more likely that the Reds continue to run out platoon of Jake Fraley and perhaps someone like Blake Dunn.

Jeimer Candelario, Reds designated hitter

If the Reds can find a way to unload Jeimer Candelario and the $30 million remaining on his current deal, they should do. Seeing as how that's not likely, the veteran is not just going to ride the pine while hauling in $15 million next season. Look for Candelario to operate as the Reds' DH, and possibly share time with Encarnacion-Strand and others.

Will the Reds target some outfield help in trades this offseason? Could Nick Krall and Brad Meador pull a rabbit out of their hat and target a big-name in free agency? Sure, but the Reds track record suggests otherwise. The Reds have already made their biggest move of the offseason by hiring Francona to lead the charge in 2025, and the roster isn't in shambles. A few tweaks and an experienced skipper at the helm might be all Cincinnati need to return to the playoffs next season.

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