Matt McLain was once seen as a cornerstone of the Reds’ young core that broke through in 2023. After a disappointing season in 2025 and a slow start to this season, he's showing signs of the player he was during his rookie campaign.

Matt McLain is Starting to Hit Again

May 14, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Matt McLain (9) hits a two-run home run in the second inning against the Washington Nationals at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Reds won the series finale versus the Washington Nationals 15-1 behind a great start from Chase Burns and a big day from JJ Bleday. The player who got the offense started? Matt McLain. McLain launched a two-run home run to center field at 104 miles per hour off the bat to give the Reds a 2-0 lead. He later ripped a double over third baseman Brady House at 102.2 miles per hour for his second hit on the day.…