The news is looking increasingly ominous on Cincinnati Reds' infielder Matt McLain.
After being scratched earlier this week with a shoulder issue, manager David Bell downplayed it, but now, he's painting some dire scenarios.
Per Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer:
David Bell said Matt McLain (left shoulder) got an MRI. They're looking at all the options for next steps.
David Bell said that he wasn't sure if McLain would start the year on the active roster or the IL.
"All of the options are on the table." One of the options is surgery, Bell said.
That's dreadful news for a Reds team that is already dealing with the loss of Noelvi Marte to an 80-game PED suspension. All of a sudden, the Reds' once-awesome infield depth is being whittled away.
In the event of an absence for McLain, Cincinnati would likely use Jeimer Candelario at third base and Jonathan India at second base. Elly De La Cruz would continue to play shortstop.
McLain was one of several exciting prospects to debut for the Reds during the 2023 season and he did not disappoint, hitting .290 over 365 at-bats. He also popped 16 homers and helped the Reds finish at 82-80.
McLain is a former first-round pick of the Reds in the 2021 draft out of UCLA. He drove in 50 runs and stole 14 bases as well in 2023. He also posted a .357 on-base percentage.
Cincinnati will open up the season on March 28 against the Washington Nationals.
More must-reads: