Even if MLB spring training starts on time, several Cincinnati Reds recovering from surgical procedures might not be ready.
During an end-of-season meeting with local reporters, Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall and General Manager Brad Meador provided updates on three key players: outfielders Dane Myers and Spencer Steer and relief pitcher Tony Santillan. The players availability for spring training remains an open question.
Meador said, "If they're full-go from Day 1? We'll see, but by the season they should be close."
Myers underwent a successful left-shoulder medical procedure, Meador said. Myers crashing into outfield walls was a common sight throughout the 2026 season, and that style of defense took a physical toll.
Meador said
the team received a note Sept. 30 that Steer underwent successful surgery after he missed approximately five weeks through the end of the season for a partial tear of the tendon sheath protecting a tendon in his right wrist.
Santillan's recovery continues following a Sept. 24 surgery to remove a bone protrusion from his left hip, which appears to be at least close to a best-case scenario for his recovery and long-term prognosis.
In 2026, Reds pitchers and catchers reported to the club's Goodyear, Arizona, complex on Feb. 9. Player availability around that time in 2027 could end up being something of a moot point with labor negotiations looming between the Major League Baseball Players Association and owners.
The current collective bargaining agreement expires Dec. 1, and it's widely expected club owners will lock out the players. The lockout could threaten the typical spring training schedule, as well as regular-season games.
Reds officials declined to comment on baseball's labor issues during the Oct. 1 media session at Great American Ball Park.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: If MLB spring training starts on time, these Reds might not be there
