There's still reason to believe, Reds fans
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The 2026 season has to get better, doesn't it? Photo: Casey Weldon/Axios
The Cincinnati Reds went from playoff expectations to exiting the All-Star break in last place in the NL Central, but it's not yet time to give up hope.
Why it matters: There are legitimate reasons to believe the final few months could turn things around:
⚾ The rotation finally looks whole
All-Star rookie Chase Burns already looks like a franchise cornerstone, justifying his recent seven-year, $105 million extension.
- Ace Hunter Greene has returned from an injury and is looking better.
- Andrew Abbott has quietly become the club's steadiest starter, while Brady Singer has reeled off numerous quality starts since June.
😤 The offense almost has to improve
Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz, rookie masher Sal Stewart, JJ Bleday and Tyler Stephenson have all been valuable.
- Every other Reds position player has struggled, though hopefully Eugenio Suárez heats up like he historically does.
🤞 Never count out Tito
Manager Terry Francona has a similar habit of getting the most out of his young players late in a season.
What's next: Having opened the second half taking two of three from the Rockies, Cincinnati now travels to Seattle and St. Louis.
- A 10-game homestand begins July 27 against Cleveland, and hopefully a playoff push gives reason to keep watching.
Go deeper: More about the Reds' recent draft picks.