Reds' McLain Hits Two Home Runs, Drives in 6 in Spring Training Rout

Promising second baseman continues hot start to Cactus League play

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In a 17-9 spring training win over the Cubs, Cincinnati Reds second baseman Matt McLain hit two home runs and drove in six runs. McLain, who is looking to bounce back after a strong rookie season in 2023, is off to a torrid start in Cactus League play, going 8-for-14 with three homers and nine RBIs in his first five games.

Why it matters

McLain's big performance is an encouraging sign for the Reds, who are hoping the 24-year-old can build on his impressive rookie campaign and become a key part of their lineup. The Reds are looking to rebound after a disappointing 2023 season, and a breakout year from McLain could be a major boost.

The details

McLain's first home run was a three-run shot off Pirates pitcher Jameson Taillon in the bottom of the second inning, while his second was another three-run blast against Rockies lefty Ryan Rolison in the third. Both homers were hit with exit velocities over 107 mph and traveled over 400 feet. Reds manager Terry Francona praised McLain's swing, saying "He looks incredible."

  • McLain hit his two home runs in the bottom of the 2nd and 3rd innings on Monday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Matt McLain

A 24-year-old second baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, McLain is looking to build on an impressive rookie season in 2023 where he posted an .864 OPS and 127 OPS+.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds, Francona has praised McLain's hot start to spring training and believes the young infielder can continue to develop into a key part of the Reds' lineup.

Brady Singer

The Reds' starting pitcher in Monday's game, Singer had a mixed outing, allowing 5 runs on 7 hits over 2+ innings, but said he felt good about his slider and sweeper pitches.

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What they’re saying

“He looks incredible. Obviously going to be a huge part of this team, so for him to do what he's doing right now, it's really exciting for us.”

— Brady Singer, Reds starting pitcher (mlb.com)

“Last year when he got hurt, we talked to him about turning what could be perceived as a negative into a positive, and he did a really good job with his body while he was down. I just reminded him this morning to enjoy being young and embracing what's in front of you and not be so worried or fixated on, 'I gotta to get to the next level.' Go just embrace seeing how good you can get.”

— Terry Francona, Reds manager (mlb.com)

What’s next

The Reds will continue to monitor McLain's progress throughout the remainder of spring training as they look to finalize their Opening Day roster.

The takeaway

McLain's hot start to spring training is a promising sign for the Reds, who are hoping the young second baseman can build on his strong rookie season and become a key part of their lineup as they look to rebound in 2026.