Locked On Reds - Daily Podcast On The Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds’ 2026 playoff dreams ride on Elly De La Cruz’s breakout season. Can De La Cruz rise from over-hyped prospect to legitimate MVP contender and deliver the all-star, 30-homer, 50-steal campaign the franchise demands? Hosts Jeff and Steve debate what the Reds need from their dynamic shortstop for October success, the impact of new lineup protection from Eugenio Suárez, and whether recent handling of De La Cruz has set the stage for a career year—or more frustration.

 

Key stories include the Reds’ latest spring training roster cuts, the evolving infield depth, and a sneak preview of new Reds TV broadcasts. The conversation also tackles De La Cruz’s long-term future in Cincinnati, Scott Boras’s contract strategy, and the importance of enjoying superstar moments while they last. Will this be the year the Cincinnati Reds take command of the NL Central and rewrite the narrative?

 

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

 

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

 

#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds called out as Major League Baseball Players Association union boss Bruce Meyer challenges Phil Castellini and ownership, fueling fresh debate about salary caps and payroll accountability. Are the Reds holding back, and could a looming CBA clash reshape the team’s spending strategy? Jeff and Steve scrutinize Meyer’s pointed comments, unpack rumored salary floor and cap projections, and spotlight the Reds’ actual payroll amid fan pressure for big signings.

 

Spring training heats up as Elly De La Cruz electrifies at the plate but frustrates on the base paths, raising questions about aggressive base running. Graham Ashcraft’s rough outing sparks concern, but hosts urge patience as roster competitions intensify. Will Benson and JJ Bleday headline “Beday Watch,” battling for a prized bench spot, while Dane Myers’ versatility draws praise. Locked On Reds breaks down key bench battles, potential breakout candidates, and the evolving shape of the Opening Day roster.

 

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com  

 

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!

https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

 

Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

 

00:00 MLBPA Calls Out Reds

10:21 Reds Spring Training Concerns

21:41 Beday Watch: Benson vs Bleday

 

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Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

 

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

 

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

 

#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal roster decision as Ke'Bryan Hayes, renowned for his Gold Glove-caliber defense, struggles to keep pace offensively. Is the Reds lineup stronger with a rising talent like Sal Stewart or a veteran bounce-back candidate in Nathaniel Lowe taking over? Hosts Steve and Jeff weigh the impact of shifting Hayes to a defensive replacement role and explore the ripple effects for the infield rotation. Expect sharp takes on Nathaniel Lowe’s potential, Eugenio Suarez’s home run outlook, and Hunter Greene eclipsing 180 strikeouts as the team targets division supremacy.

 

The episode features intriguing debates about lineup optimization, stadium adjustments—spurred by Joey Votto’s bold suggestion to move back the fences—and how these strategies align with the Reds’ pitching-focused philosophy. Analysis includes Matt McLain’s versatility, Sal Stewart's breakout prospects, and whether the Reds will finally build a roster capable of winning playoff series. Is this the year Cincinnati transforms its approach and delivers long-awaited postseason success?

 

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com  

 

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!

https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

 

Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

 

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

 

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

 

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

 

#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Can the Cincinnati Reds count on breakout seasons from their rising stars, or are key names set to regress as the 2026 season looms? Jeff, Steve, and Tim Daniel tackle looming concerns around TJ Friedl’s sustainability at leadoff and Emilio Pagán’s bullpen reliability, questioning if last season’s success can truly be replicated. The hosts highlight the impact of new additions like Dane Myers and analyze platoon strategies to mitigate risk, while pondering if Matt McLain or Sal Stewart might seize breakout roles.

 

The discussion heats up with bold predictions: multiple Reds in the MLB Top 100, front-runners for Rookie of the Year, Cy Young, MVP, and Manager of the Year candidates, and whether Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, or Andrew Abbott could anchor a playoff push. Key questions center on Ke'Bryan Hayes’ offensive resurgence and Cincinnati’s chances of dethroning the Brewers in a competitive NL Central. Will Terry Francona’s squad be the surprise contender of the season?

 

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com  

 

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!

https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

 

Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

 

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

 

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

 

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

 

#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal moment as Matt McLain’s contract becomes the centerpiece of offseason strategy. Should the front office take a gamble and secure McLain before his stock skyrockets, or risk losing a potential franchise leader? Hunter Greene’s new two-seam fastball could be the key to unlocking Cy Young-level dominance, ramping up expectations for a breakout campaign.

 

Steve and Jeff break down Reds spring training highlights, spotlighting changes in player mentality, leadership roles, and the importance of early-season preparation. Key topics include McLain’s rebound projections, Greene’s evolving arsenal, the team’s approach to pitcher readiness under Terry Francona, and what fans should focus on in spring contests. With a young core and crucial contract decisions looming, will Cincinnati Reds capitalize on their momentum, or miss an opportunity to build long-term success?

 

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com  

 

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!

https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

 

Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

 

00:00 - Matt McClain Extension Talk

09:26 - Hunter Greene's New Pitch

20:37 - What Matters in Spring Training games

 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

 

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

 

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

 

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

 

#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.