SAN FRANCISCO — Cincinnati Reds’ second baseman Matt McLain has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left hamstring, with the team optimistic about a speedy recovery through rest.
Manager Terry Francona mentioned that McLain had been experiencing discomfort in his leg recently, and it seemed advisable to allow him to rest rather than risk further injury. The aim is to ensure his quick return within a week.
“There’s just so much baseball left to play that it just didn’t seem like it made a lot of sense to try to push through this right now,” Francona stated prior to the Reds facing the San Francisco Giants in the second game of their three-game series.
McLain, having participated in eight games with a batting average of .214, hit three home runs and compiled five RBIs, primarily playing second base. His absence presents a challenge for the Reds, particularly as Spencer Steer is currently unable to play defense due to a sensitive throwing shoulder. Instead, Steer took up the role of designated hitter on Tuesday, positioned seventh in the batting lineup.
Steer’s shoulder issues have persisted since last season, leading to time on the injured list from the beginning of the year. He underwent a cortisone injection for relief on March 1 during spring training.
Gavin Lux was designated to cover second base for Tuesday’s match in place of McLain.
Additionally, the Reds made roster adjustments by sending right-hander Carson Spiers to Triple-A Louisville. They called up infielder Noelvi Marte and outfielder Will Benson from that team to join the main roster.