The Cincinnati Reds can’t seem to catch a break. And honestly, they can’t seem to keep a full infield on the field either.
Before their series opener against the Chicago Cubs, the team shuffled the deck again. Ke’Bryan Hayes is back from the 10-day injured list after missing nearly two months with a back issue. But the good news came with a catch: Matt McLain is headed to the IL for the fourth time in four years, this time with a left calf strain retroactive to July 8.
The Reds announced both moves on their official X account. It’s the latest chapter in what’s been a frustrating first half for a team that can’t seem to get all its pieces on the field at the same time.
Another setback for McLain
McLain’s injury history is starting to read like a medical textbook. In 2023 it was an oblique strain that cost him a month. Last year he missed the entire season after surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. Earlier this season he dealt with a hamstring issue. Now it’s a calf strain.
That’s four different injuries in four seasons for a guy who’s supposed to be part of the Reds’ long-term plans. At 25, he’s already missed more time than some veterans do in their entire careers.
The team hasn’t given a timeline for his return yet, which is usually not a great sign. Calf strains can be tricky, especially for a player who relies on explosiveness in the field and on the bases.
Hayes finally back
On the brighter side, Hayes is back in the lineup after being sidelined since May. The third baseman has been frustratingly inconsistent at the plate, but his glove is legit. The Reds have missed his defense at the hot corner, especially with all the other moving parts happening around the infield.
Elly De La Cruz just came off the IL himself, so the timing works out. Sort of. The Reds are essentially playing musical chairs with their roster spots, swapping one injured guy for another as they try to stay afloat before the All-Star break.
Cincinnati entered this Cubs series with a losing record and a lot of questions about their staying power in the NL Central. The pitching has been inconsistent. The offense has been streaky. And the injury bug has been relentless.
At this point, the Reds might just be counting down the days until the break so they can get a reset. But with McLain going down again, that reset might not come soon enough.
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