Reds Aim to Boost Lineup Stability in 2026

Cincinnati looks to get more players over 600 plate appearances after a rotating roster in 2025.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The 2025 Cincinnati Reds were led by TJ Friedl and Elly De La Cruz, who both topped 600 plate appearances, but the team struggled with injuries and platoons that limited other players from reaching that threshold. As the Reds look to improve their offense in 2026, there are questions about whether they can get more stability in the lineup and get additional players over the 600 PA mark.

Why it matters

Reaching 600 plate appearances is a key indicator of an everyday player and a productive offense. The Reds are hoping to build more consistency in their lineup in 2026 after relying heavily on just a couple players to log that much playing time the previous season.

The details

In 2025, only Friedl and De La Cruz topped 600 plate appearances for the Reds, while 68 players across MLB reached that mark. Cincinnati dealt with injuries to players like Jake Fraley, Austin Hays, and Noelvi Marte, as well as platooning outfielders Gavin Lux, Will Benson, and Fraley. Trades of Ke'Bryan Hayes and Miguel Andujar also impacted playing time. The Reds are hoping to get more stability in 2026 and see if players like Sal Stewart, Spencer Steer, Eugenio Suárez, and Matt McLain can each reach 600 PAs.

  • The 2025 Reds season saw only two players top 600 plate appearances.
  • In 2026, the Reds are aiming to get more of their lineup regulars to reach the 600 PA threshold.

The players

TJ Friedl

An everyday outfielder for the Reds in 2025 who logged 685 plate appearances.

Elly De La Cruz

A top prospect who played regularly for the Reds in 2025, finishing with 699 plate appearances.

Sal Stewart

A Reds player who the team hopes can reach 600 plate appearances in 2026.

Spencer Steer

A versatile Reds player who could see increased playing time and a chance to reach 600 PAs in 2026.

Eugenio Suárez

A veteran hitter the Reds are counting on to be an everyday player and potentially reach 600 PAs in 2026.

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What’s next

The Reds will be closely monitoring their lineup construction and health in Spring Training to see which players have the best chance of reaching 600 plate appearances in 2026.

The takeaway

After relying heavily on just a couple players to log significant playing time in 2025, the Reds are hoping to build more consistency and depth in their lineup for the 2026 season. Getting multiple players over the 600 PA threshold would be a sign of an improved and more productive offense.