Why This Reds Offseason Addition Is Already Making His Presence Felt

When the Reds traded for Dane Myers in the offseason, it wasn't a move that made big waves across Major League Baseball. In fact, it didn't event make big waves across Cincinnati's own fanbase.

However, Myers is already showing why the Reds traded for him this spring.

Crushes Left-Handed Pitching

Cincinnati Reds center fielder Dane Myers (17) walks in the second inning of a Cactus League game between the Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Ariz. | Frank Bowen IV/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Myers is right-handed, which will allow him to platoon some with TJ Friedl. Friedl has struggled against left-handed pitching over his last two seasons. Hitting left-handed pitching is what Myers does best.

"At a time in the winter when we acquired him, you’re not sure what’s going to happen the rest of the winter," Reds manager Terry Francona told MLB.com's Mark Sheldon. "I know every fan wants the sexy move, I get it. But you also need to protect yourself a little bit and I thought it was a really good [acquisition]."

He's showed that in Spring Training. In Saturday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Myers had two hits, including a go ahead double with the bases loaded that proved to be the winning hit. Both of his hits were against left-hander pitching.

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On Sunday, Myers homered had two more hits, including a home run against a right-handed pitcher. He's hitting .455 with an OPS of 1.480 this spring.

Over his career, Myers is hitting .297 with an OPS of .816 against left-handed pitching, something the Reds struggled with as a team in 2025.

Defense and Base running

Red — Jul 5, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins right fielder Dane Myers (54) steals second base against Chicago White Sox shortstop Paul DeJong (29) during the second inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Myers has built his reputation around the league on defense and speed. His range grades out in the 75th percentile, his arm strength sits in the 97th percentile, and his 28.4 feet-per-second sprint speed this spring ranks in the 76th percentile.

“I always pride myself on playing the game the right way, trying to be a five-tool player," Myers said. "I think defense is an important part of being a complete team," Myers said. "Whatever I can do to help that is my goal.”

We know how much Nick Krall and Terry Francona value defense. Myers is a fourth outfielder who will not only not be a liability in the outfield, but a player who will most likely upgrade the outfield.

While it wasn't a huge move, it is certainly a move that should pay dividends for the Reds this season.

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