On today's show, we break down 3 burning questions for the Cincinnati Reds as Spring Training gets underway: Who the 5th man in the starting rotation will be, where Spencer Steer will play defensively and how Sal Stewart and Noelvi Marte will adjust to new positions. Also, we discuss Tyler Stephenson's arbitration case, some Cincinnati Bengals draft targets and whether the Bengals should go after Kenny Clark should he be cut by Dallas.

The Reds enter spring training with three compelling storylines, starting with the battle for the fifth spot in the rotation. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott and Brady Singer appear locked into the first four jobs, leaving one opening among Brandon Williamson, Rhett Lowder, Chase Burns and Julian Aguiar. Each brings a different profile. Williamson has big-league experience but is working to reestablish consistency. Lowder, one of the organization’s top pitching prospects, offers polish and pitchability but may still be building innings. Burns arguably has the highest ceiling of the group, with swing-and-miss stuff that could force the issue if he dominates in camp. Aguiar adds depth and competitiveness, though he may need to prove he can miss enough bats against major league hitters. Performance, health, and how aggressively Cincinnati wants to promote young arms will determine the winner.

Another key question is where Spencer Steer fits defensively. Steer’s versatility has long been an asset, and that flexibility again gives the Reds options. He could see time at first base, particularly if the team prioritizes offense at corner spots, but he’s also capable in the outfield and at third base if needed. Much depends on how the rest of the infield shakes out and whether the Reds value defensive stability or lineup balance more heavily. Steer’s bat will be in the lineup — the only question is where his glove lands most often.

Finally, Sal Stewart and Noelvi Marte adjusting to new positions adds another developmental layer. Stewart is gaining experience at first base after primarily playing third, and proving he can handle the transition would open a clearer path to at-bats. Marte, meanwhile, continues adapting to an outfield role, refining reads and routes while trying to let his athleticism play. How quickly both adjust could shape Cincinnati’s roster flexibility all season.

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