The Cincinnati Reds secured a 7-3 victory against the San Diego Padres in Goodyear, Arizona, highlighted by stellar performances from their young lineup. Blake Dunn delivered a game-ending defensive play, while Christian Encarnacion-Strand smashed a solo home run and added a sacrifice fly. Elly De La Cruz contributed with an RBI double and a stolen base, showcasing his speed and ability to impact the game. Matt McLain and Ivan Johnson also contributed significantly, emphasizing the potential of this emerging core.

On the mound, Nick Martinez was impressive, tossing two scoreless innings. However, Brady Singer struggled, allowing two runs in his outing. The Reds did face challenges with runners in scoring position, going just 2-for-11, but the promising performances from their young players provided a silver lining. They will face the Chicago Cubs next, continuing to build on this momentum.

Austin Hays shone in his Cincinnati Reds debut, leading the team to an 8-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers with two home runs and six RBIs. Signed just weeks ago to a one-year, $5 million contract, Hays showcased his potential as a core player in the Reds' lineup by going 3-for-3 with three runs scored. Even though it was a spring training game, his performance against the defending World Series Champions was particularly noteworthy. Hays' impressive outing included a home run off Dodgers pitcher Tanner Scott, who recently signed a hefty deal worth $72 million. Brady Singer also made a statement in his debut, pitching two shutout innings and striking out four batters.

The Kansas City Royals enter the 2025 season with a starting rotation that shows promise, featuring talents like Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo. However, the fifth spot in the rotation remains uncertain, especially with Brady Singer's departure to the Cincinnati Reds. This uncertainty may push the Royals to consider adding another pitcher, with José Quintana emerging as a candidate for a late free-agent signing. Quintana, after a solid season with the Mets, could provide the innings needed to stabilize the rotation, particularly as pitchers like Michael Lorenzen and Kris Bubic ease back from injuries.

The Cincinnati Reds are set for an intriguing spring training with a flexible defensive alignment that could see players shifting positions as manager Terry Francona experiments. Despite Elly De La Cruz's solid hold on shortstop, Matt McLain's versatility means he could see time at both second base and centerfield. Gavin Lux is expected to transition between third and second base, also making appearances in left field.

Spencer Steer boasts the ability to play multiple positions, while Jeimer Candelario is slated for time at both third and first base. Notably, Christian Encarnacion-Strand has impressed Francona with his shape and could see increased reps at third base, a position he has rarely played. The Reds are eager to rebound from a fourth-place finish in the National League Central, banking on the health of McLain and Encarnacion-Strand, as well as new addition Brady Singer to bolster their chances for a playoff return after a three-year absence.

Nick Martinez's acceptance of the qualifying offer from the Cincinnati Reds, coupled with the trade for Brady Singer, has sparked speculation about Graham Ashcraft's future role within the team. As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, pitching coach Derek Johnson emphasized that Ashcraft will initially compete for a starting position, with potential adjustments based on performance and team needs during spring training. Although Ashcraft faced challenges in 2024, including an elbow strain that sidelined him, Johnson reassured fans of his readiness to return to action in spring training.

Johnson expressed confidence in Ashcraft's abilities, stating, 'It’s hard to leave out that kind of arm and that kind of stuff.' While Ashcraft's recent performance has been scrutinized, with an ERA of 5.24 over 77.1 innings in 2024, he is reportedly in good health and committed to his rehabilitation. The Reds organization remains open to exploring various roles for Ashcraft, reaffirming their belief in his talent and potential contributions to the team's pitching depth.