Reds preseason capsule: Terry Francona introduces greater expectations

Cincinnati Reds

2024 record: 77-85 (4th place, NL Central)

He gone: RHP Fernando Cruz, RHP Buck Farmer, 2B Jonathan India, RHP Jakob Junis, C Luke Maile.

New faces: RHP Scott Barlow, OF Austin Hays, 3B Gavin Lux, LHP Taylor Rogers, RHP Brady Singer, C Jose Trevino.

Biggest question entering Opening Day: Can veteran manager Terry Francona lead the franchise back to prominence? Reds management proved it's serious about getting back in the NL Central chase by luring Francona out of retirement. The front office gave him some material to work with -- given the addition of Hays, Singer, Barlow, Lux and Rogers -- to fill needs. 2B Matt McLain returns from injury to replace India's bat and glove. Francona has enough pieces to rotate players while playing the matchup game.

Top prospect: While making six late-season starts, RHP Rhett Lowder showed why he was the seventh overall pick in the 2023 draft. He went 2-2 with a 1.17 ERA. He posted a 3.64 ERA in 22 games at three minor league levels last season.

Breakout player: Once again the Reds are hoping LHP Nick Lodolo can take the next step in his career. He will open the season as the No. 2 starter after going 9-6 with a 4.76 ERA in 21 starts during his injury-marred '24 campaign.

2025 outlook: A young nucleus to build around guarantees excitement. It's up to Francona to turn potential into a greater payoff. SS Elly De La Cruz may have the most physical talent in the sport, and powerful RHP Hunter Greene is an ace in the making. Young veterans like 1B-OF Spencer Steer have room to grow. If the Reds can stay healthier than they did last season, they could make noise.

--Field Level Media