Here's how the Reds' Opening Day roster could look

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Reds Spring Training officially opened on Monday, with plenty of questions about what the makeup of the 2025 roster could be when camp breaks.

So even though it's Day 1 and there are six weeks before Cincinnati celebrates another Opening Day by hosting the Giants on March 27, what better time than now to begin predicting the 26-man roster?

This will be an exercise repeated multiple times throughout camp, and the roster can change if there are injuries, surprise transactions and more.

Here goes attempt No. 1.

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Catcher (2): Tyler Stephenson, Jose Trevino
Stephenson is the primary guy behind the plate, but Cincinnati will have a former All-Star in Trevino, who is known for his defense and working with pitchers.

First baseman (1): Spencer Steer
Steer was primarily a left fielder last season, but he played 63 games at first base. Because he is so versatile, he will likely move all over the field. Jeimer Candelario may also see time at first, as could Christian Encarnacion-Strand at some point.

Second baseman (1): Matt McLain
After missing all of 2024 with a left shoulder injury, McLain has a chance to pick up from a very strong 2023 rookie season.

Shortstop (1): Elly De La Cruz
Others, including McLain, could get opportunities here, but the Reds still love De La Cruz's otherworldly talent and range at shortstop. With a focus on reducing strikeouts, the switch-hitter will be looking to take another step forward in his budding superstar career.

Third baseman (1): Gavin Lux
Lux has appeared at third base just once in the big leagues and five times professionally. He will likely appear at multiple spots -- including first base and second base.

Outfielders (5): TJ Friedl, Austin Hays, Jake Fraley, Stuart Fairchild, Will Benson
Friedl was frequently hurt in 2024, with three stints on the injured list. His strong defense will be vital in center field. Hays will be seeking a bounceback season after dealing with issues last year in Baltimore and Philadelphia. Fraley, Fairchild and Benson could be competing for starts in right field.

Designated hitter (1): Jeimer Candelario
Candelario, who missed the final six weeks of 2024 with a fractured left big toe, has been working on his defense at both corner infield spots. Cincinnati would most like to see a boost in the switch-hitter’s offense after his subpar first season with the club.

Bench/Utility (1): Santiago Espinal
Espinal is a role player who can play all infield positions except first base, as well as left field.

Starting pitchers (5): Hunter Greene, Brady Singer, Nick Martinez, Nick Lodolo, Rhett Lowder
Tough choices here, with eight starters vying for spots. No. 2 prospect Lowder should get the last spot based on his strong debut in the final month of 2024.

Relief pitchers (8): Alexis Diaz (CL), Emilio Pagán, Sam Moll, Brent Suter, Taylor Rogers, Carson Spiers, Tony Santillan, Graham Ashcraft
Ashcraft moves from the rotation to the bullpen in this scenario and could become a stronger option in the later innings.