Cincinnati Reds Shut Down Rookie After Fantastic Season

Cincinnati Reds' rookie infielder, Matt McLain, who had been enjoying a breakout season, recently faced a series of setbacks due to a right oblique injury.

Initially, he was on the verge of returning to the team after a nearly four-week absence caused by a right oblique strain.

However, his return was short-lived as the injury resurfaced during a minor-league rehab game with Triple-A Louisville.

Matt McLain re-aggravated his oblique injury during his rehab stint and is out for the remainder of the regular season, per @CharlieG__ pic.twitter.com/24sPkyHFgs
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) September 26, 2023

Subsequent scans revealed that it had worsened to a Grade 2 strain, sidelining him for the rest of the regular season and any potential postseason appearances.

McLain's absence is a significant blow to both him and the Reds, as his impressive rookie performance had been a driving force behind the team's playoff push.

During his remarkable rookie season, the 24-year-old infielder posted impressive statistics, including a .290 batting average, .357 on-base percentage, and a .507 slugging percentage.

#Reds Matt McLain is out for the rest of the season after reaggravating his right oblique (grade two strain) during his rehab, per The Athletic.. #pain pic.twitter.com/UQl3MXonos
— Cincinnati 💔 (@CincyProblems) September 26, 2023

He contributed 16 home runs, 50 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and scored 65 runs across 89 major-league games. His offensive and defensive prowess had been crucial to the Reds' success, making his injury a tough setback for the team as they aim for a deep postseason run.

While McLain won't be seen on the field for the rest of the season, fans can hope to see him back in action during spring training as he works towards a full recovery. Photo Credit: Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK