Terry Francona praised the Reds signing of Eugenio Suárez

Manager Terry Francona expressed enthusiasm after the Reds signed All-Star infielder Eugenio Suárez and called owner Bob Castellini to share his appreciation. Francona also confirmed TJ Friedl is slated to hit leadoff, Elly De La Cruz will hit third, pitchers and catchers report today, and the first full squad workout is scheduled for February 16.

The Cincinnati Reds have added All-Star infielder Eugenio Suárez, and manager Terry Francona spoke about the signing while in Arizona. Francona said he was energized by the move and called owner Bob Castellini to express his appreciation. He described Suarez as a clear presence in the middle of the lineup who will reduce the need to mix and match players. Francona also outlined early lineup roles as spring preparations begin. Key details: - The team signed All-Star infielder Eugenio Suárez; Francona expressed enthusiasm and informed owner Bob Castellini of his approval. - Francona said Suarez provides a presence in the middle of the order and will lessen the lineup juggling used last season. - TJ Friedl is slated to hit leadoff and Elly De La Cruz is set to bat third; Francona said the two will work out which of them bats first in the order. - Spencer Steer, Sal Stewart, and Noelvi Marte were mentioned as candidates to hit second; Francona noted Marte is working on his approach versus left-handed pitching. - Marte posted an .821 OPS against right-handed pitching last season and a .562 OPS against left-handers. Suarez last hit 30 or more home runs for the Reds in 2021, when he had 31, and his return adds a middle-of-order power option the team has not had since his 2022 departure. Summary: The signing of Eugenio Suárez is presented as a way to add middle-of-order power and reduce lineup shuffling from 2025. Pitchers and catchers report today and the first full squad workout is scheduled for February 16, as the Reds continue spring preparations.