Veteran Lowe Looks to Earn Reds Roster Spot

Infielder Nathaniel Lowe signs minor league deal, could make Opening Day roster with strong spring performance.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Cincinnati Reds signed veteran infielder Nathaniel Lowe to a minor league contract this week, and he could have an inside track on making the team's Opening Day roster. Lowe, who has won a World Series, Silver Slugger, and Gold Glove, has a strong track record of production against right-handed pitching that could give him an edge over other roster hopefuls like Will Benson and JJ Bleday.

Why it matters

The Reds are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and adding a proven veteran bat like Lowe could provide a boost to their lineup. His ability to play first base and DH also gives the team flexibility in managing their roster and lineup.

The details

Lowe, 30, hit .762 against right-handed pitching in 2025 and has a career .789 OPS versus righties, significantly better than Benson (.708) and Bleday (.650). His power numbers against righties (16 HR in 2025) also stand out. While he doesn't play the outfield, the Reds could get creative with their lineup to find playing time for Lowe, such as sitting third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes or giving days off to other infielders.

  • The Reds signed Lowe to a minor league deal earlier this week.
  • The Reds will make their final roster decisions ahead of Opening Day in late March.

The players

Nathaniel Lowe

A 30-year-old veteran infielder who has won a World Series, Silver Slugger, and Gold Glove over his 7-year MLB career.

Will Benson

A young outfielder competing for a roster spot with the Reds.

JJ Bleday

Another young outfielder vying for a spot on the Reds' Opening Day roster.

Eugenio Suarez

The Reds' veteran third baseman who could potentially shift to DH to accommodate Lowe.

Terry Francona

The Reds' manager who has praised Lowe's experience and is open to finding creative ways to get him playing time.

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What they’re saying

“I explained to him, you'll be treated like the veteran you deserve. We can't guarantee you anything because I can't do that. I told him I'll undersell it because I don't feel comfortable (selling) something to get him in here and then a month later it's not what I said. He has been a good bat. He had some down times last year. But he's not far removed from being an All-Star. You got him on a non-roster, it's kind of hard to not let him come.”

— Terry Francona, Reds Manager (Cincinnati Enquirer)

What’s next

The Reds will evaluate Lowe and the other roster hopefuls throughout spring training, with final decisions on the Opening Day roster expected in late March.

The takeaway

Lowe's proven track record against right-handed pitching and his veteran experience could give him an edge in the Reds' roster competition, especially if the team values adding a power bat to complement their young core. His versatility to play first base and DH also makes him an attractive option for a Reds team looking to bounce back in 2026.