Cincinnati Reds Opening Day Lineup Prediction

Cincinnati hosts Washington on Thursday afternoon at Great American Ballpark

Opening Day is just one day away and the Cincinnati Reds are hoping to make a postseason run in 2024. Cincinnati hosts Washington on Thursday at 4:10 ET.

Here's what I think the lineup will look like on Thursday at Great American Ballpark:

1. Jonathan India, Second Base

India is becoming more and more of a priority for the Reds following the injuries of TJ Friedl and Matt McLain. India will be a big part of the Reds' lineup this season. They're banking on him to pick up the slack in a shorthanded infield.

2. Elly De La Cruz, Shortstop

De La Cruz is a freakish athlete. Putting him near the top of the order will give him as many chances as possible to make an impact on the game. He also showed more patience at the plate in spring training. Hopefully he can draw more walks and get on base at a much higher rate this season.

3. Spencer Steer, Left Field

Steer hit 23 home runs last season and could give the Reds even more power this season.

4. Christian Encarnacion-Strand, First Base

Encarnacion-Strand is a destroyer of baseballs! The clean-up spot feels perfect for CES.

5. Jake Fraley, Right Field

Fraley is someone else you could consider penciling in at the clean-up spot, but fifth in the order is a great fit. Fraley is a left-handed hitter who is primarily a threat to right-handed pitchers like Josiah Gray.

6. Jeimer Candelario, Third Base

Candelario was a big addition for the Reds this offseason and it became an even bigger signing following Noelvi Marte's 80-game suspension. Candelario will get plenty of playing time at third base this season.

7. Stuart Fairchild, Designated Hitter

Fairchild gets the Opening Day nod at DH. He performed well this spring.

8. Tyler Stephenson, Catcher

Stephenson is the obvious choice at catcher. Expect him to be in the bottom of the order as he tries to bounce back this season.

9. Will Benson Center Fielder

Benson is going to be so crucial for the Reds. He brings added power to the back end of the lineup and will get a chance to show he can play center field.

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