Spencer Steer has rapidly become a fan favorite within the Cincinnati Reds organization since joining the team in 2022 via the Tyler Mahle trade. Over his professional career, Steer has delivered solid offensive numbers, including a .243 batting average, a .329 on-base percentage, and a .421 slugging percentage, while consistently hitting 20 or more home runs and driving in at least 75 runs each of the past three seasons. His offensive steadiness has made him a dependable presence in the lineup.
Originally a utility player, Steer began sharpening his focus on a single position during the 2025 season, excelling at first base. This specialization marked a turning point; after years of splitting time across multiple spots, he demonstrated above-average defense at first, earning recognition as a Gold Glove finalist. His fielding metrics that year highlighted the improvement, solidifying his value beyond just his bat.
Impact of Suárez Signing on Steer’s Playing Time
Despite Steer’s progress, the Reds introduced a significant development heading into 2026 by signing veteran Eugenio Suárez to a one-year contract. Suárez is a beloved figure among Cincinnati fans and offers powerful offensive potential, including the chance to hit up to 50 home runs at the Great American Ball Park. While this acquisition strengthens the team’s lineup, it complicates Steer’s prospects for securing a regular starting job.
Before Suárez’s arrival, expectations pointed toward Steer sharing first base and designated hitter duties with promising rookie Sal Stewart. Stewart, who debuted last season, impressed down the stretch and is anticipated to be a regular fixture in the lineup. His minor league history shows versatility, having played third base, second base, and first. However, with Ke’Bryan Hayes, a Gold Glove-caliber defender, entrenched at third base, Stewart’s opportunities at that position are likely limited under manager Terry Francona, who prioritizes strong defense.
Positional Battles and Defensive Challenges
The Reds are banking on Matt McLain to rebound at second base after a difficult 2025 season, during which McLain posted a low 77 wRC+ while recovering from shoulder surgery that sidelined him for all of 2024. If McLain fails to regain his rookie form of 129 wRC+, the team may face tough decisions regarding infield assignments.
Given Suárez’s veteran status and the expectation that he will occupy the designated hitter role daily, the competition for first base comes down to Sal Stewart and Spencer Steer. Initially, Stewart is expected to start at first base, not due to Steer’s shortcomings but because of Steer’s history as a utility player. In his three full big-league seasons, Steer has split much of his time in left field, appearing in 158 games there, despite not being an exceptional defender (-7 Defensive Runs Saved and -8 Outs Above Average across those seasons).
Left field options beyond Steer include newcomers JJ Bleday and Dane Myers. Myers is likely to serve as a defensive backup and may platoon some in center field with TJ Friedl. Bleday, who shined with a 120 wRC+ in 2024, is considered the primary challenger for Steer’s spot, though his more recent 90 wRC+ in 2025 indicates some decline. While Bleday’s offensive skills remain comparable to Steer’s—both posted below-average quality of contact in 2025 but maintained disciplined plate approaches with good walk rates—the left-handed Bleday provides lineup balance in an otherwise predominantly right-handed-heavy batting order.
Offensive Comparisons and Playing Time Implications
When analyzing offensive splits, Steer holds a career .797 OPS against left-handed pitching and .734 OPS versus right-handers. Comparatively, Bleday has struggled against righties with a career .713 OPS, suggesting Steer could be the more reliable option against most pitchers. This statistical nuance complicates the notion of platooning them based on handedness.
Despite steady output, Steer’s offensive numbers have dipped since 2023, when he posted an .820 OPS. His OPS hovered just above .720 in both 2024 and 2025, respectable but falling short of the production necessary to solidify an everyday position. For Steer to secure his role in left field, a marked improvement at the plate will be essential in spring training and beyond.
Potential Defensive Shifts and Roster Flexibility
Sal Stewart has reportedly shed about 25 pounds in the offseason, aiming to enhance his defensive agility. This physical transformation could enable a move to second base for Stewart, which would allow Steer to return to first base and open the door for Bleday to assume the left field role. Alternatively, if the Reds favor Steer’s defensive capabilities at second base—where he has limited experience with just 28 career games—he could occupy that spot with Stewart handling first.
Another scenario involves Hayes suffering an unlikely offensive decline, which could force Stewart back to third base and Steer back to first. The evolving defensive assignments underline the amount of flexibility required in a long baseball season filled with unpredictable variables.
Steer’s Challenge to Secure a Key Position in 2026
Currently, barring injuries or unexpected performance shifts, the everyday left field position appears to be Steer’s to lose. The roster’s moving parts and the team’s frontline signings create a tense battle for consistent playing time. With numerous factors in play—emerging rookies, veterans returning from injury, and offseason acquisitions—the Reds must balance offense, defense, and player development carefully.
For Spencer Steer, the 2026 season will test his ability to elevate his game offensively and defensively to maintain a stable everyday role with Cincinnati. His performance could influence not only his own career trajectory but also how the Reds construct their lineup and defensive strategies moving forward. The season promises to be one of high tension and opportunity for this versatile player.
