Sports
Reds’ Gavin Lux Debuts in Left Field on Opening Day Against Giants
CINCINNATI, Ohio — Gavin Lux is set to make his Cincinnati Reds debut in left field and bat cleanup on Opening Day, Thursday, against the San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park. With outfielder Austin Hays sidelined due to a calf injury, Lux is stepping into a significant role in the batting order.
The Reds will kick off their 149th season today at 4:10 p.m. ET with Hunter Greene taking the mound against Giants right-hander Logan Webb. Lux, a 27-year-old left-handed hitter, is expected to see regular playing time against right-handers, especially following the injury to Hays. Throughout his career, Luxe has maintained a .263 batting average with an .838 OPS against Webb, further bolstering his appeal for daily fantasy sports players.
In the absence of Hays, Reds manager Terry Francona has turned to Lux to fill in both left field and possibly third base this season. Francona expressed optimism about Lux’s contributions: “Gavin has shown he can be versatile and produce at the plate. We’re excited to see what he can do in a lineup like this.”
Lux will bat behind returning players TJ Friedl, Matt McLain, and Elly De La Cruz in a lineup filled with promise. Candelario, Spencer Steer, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand will round out the batting order, ensuring a strong start for the Reds.
“We’ve got a solid lineup,” said Steer, who is designated hitter for the game. “We’re all looking forward to starting the season with a win.”
The Reds have undergone several changes since the end of the 2024 season, including the acquisition of Brady Singer from the Kansas City Royals. With Greene, Lodolo, Martinez, and Singer anchoring the rotation, the Reds present a compelling case as one of the strongest pitching staffs in baseball.
In the bullpen, Scott Barlow and Taylor Rogers have taken on significant roles as the team seeks to build a lead in tight games. Ian Gibaut has also been selected for the opening roster after a promising spring training performance.
As the Reds prepare for what they hope to be a competitive season, all eyes will be on Lux and the rest of the team to deliver an Opening Day victory.
