Major League Baseball rosters will expand from 26 to 28 players on September 1, giving each team the opportunity to add one pitcher and one position player for the final month of the regular season. While rebuilding clubs often use this time to give prospects a shot at major league action, playoff contenders like the Reds are more likely to select players who can contribute immediately. With Cincinnati still in the postseason picture, their two additions could shake up the current roster configuration.
With two players set to join the team, the Reds may need to reduce playing time for a few current contributors. One name that’s surfaced in speculation is Matt McLain, the club’s second baseman. If top infield prospect Sal Stewart gets the call-up, McLain could be the odd man out. Stewart is primarily a third baseman but could shift to second, where McLain currently starts. With Ke’Bryan Hayes already locking down third base defensively, the opportunity for Stewart may come at McLain’s expense.
Another potential victim of the roster crunch is rookie pitcher Luis Mey. The hard-throwing right-hander has shown promise, but his command has been inconsistent, and his walk rate remains a concern for manager Terry Francona. With Chase Burns expected to return from the injured list soon—possibly as early as August 27—Mey could either see his role in the bullpen reduced or be optioned back to Triple-A for more seasoning.
Veteran infielder Santiago Espinal is also on the bubble. Since the Reds acquired Ke’Bryan Hayes at the trade deadline, Espinal’s defensive utility at third base has become less critical. If the Reds do call up Stewart or another infielder like Ryan Vilade, Espinal could see even fewer opportunities. His versatility is valuable, but not enough to guarantee consistent playing time if new faces arrive.
As the calendar flips to September, the Reds’ front office faces critical decisions about how to use its expanded roster. While the additions could provide a boost for a team chasing the postseason, they could also signal a reduced role—or even demotion—for some current players. For McLain, Mey, and Espinal, the next two weeks may determine their status for the final stretch.
