2024 Player Outlook

Candelario slashed .225/.279/.429 with 20 home runs and 56 RBI in his first year with the Reds last year, and he has the inside track to the starting third base gig for 2025. He’ll need to hold off Noelvi Marte, which the noise could amplify if Marte has a strong spring and Candelario’s lack of hard contact and the increasing swing-and-miss in his offensive profile continues into 2025. He’s likely more of a .235-.245 hitter with 18-22 home runs this season, but the Reds infield is pretty full, and Marte is waiting in the wings, so he’ll need to produce to hold his spot. It’s a great home park, and the price tag is affordable, but again, there’s some risk with Candelario, aside from just playing time questions as the year progresses.