Terry Francona had a message for Cincinnati Reds first baseman Nathaniel Lowe ahead of Opening Day.
The Cincinnati Reds made a big decision ahead of Opening Day, awarding the final spot on the roster to first baseman Nathaniel Lowe. The move comes after a competitive spring in which several players made strong cases, but ultimately, experience and fit won out.
Lowe signed a minor‑league contract with Cincinnati in February that included an invitation to major‑league spring training. By making the Opening Day roster, his deal now converts into a $1.75 million salary, marking a successful outcome in what was essentially a prove‑it situation.
The decision did not come without difficult conversations, especially considering the competition he faced. Manager Terry Francona explained the reasoning behind the move.
“It was the role. It’s a bench role. We really want Bleday and Hinds to play. We told them that. They both swung the bat really well. We talked to Lowe about the role. I think that’s the reason. I told Hinds, he couldn’t have done more. The role is a bench spot, and we want you to play," Francona said (h/t Charlie Goldsmith of FOX19).
Lowe ultimately beat out both JJ Bleday and Rece Hinds for that final roster spot. While both younger players impressed during camp, the Reds opted to send them to Triple A, where they can continue getting everyday at‑bats rather than taking on limited roles at the major‑league level.
Lowe also had an excellent spring, posting .289 batting average, .386 on‑base percentage and 1.018 OPS with three home runs and eight RBIs in 16 games.
For Lowe, the opportunity represents a chance to reset his career trajectory. The 30‑year‑old has spent seven seasons in the majors since debuting in 2019 and brings a strong list of accomplishments that includes a World Series title, a Silver Slugger Award and a Gold Glove from his time with the Texas Rangers from 2021-2024.
However, his production dipped significantly in 2025 during separate stints with the Washington Nationals and Boston Red Sox. Across 153 games, Lowe hit .228 with a .307 on‑base percentage and .689 OPS, along with 18 home runs and 84 RBIs. Those numbers were well below expectations for a player known for his offensive consistency.
Now in Cincinnati, Lowe will have a defined but limited role off the bench. If he can rediscover his form, he could quickly become a valuable contributor and potentially force his way into a larger role as the season progresses.