Eugenio Suárez Returns to Reds Lineup as Ke’Bryan Hayes Lands on Injured List
The Cincinnati Reds are navigating a critical stretch of their 2026 season as slugger Eugenio Suárez returns from injury, while third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes faces a new setback. With the team set to resume play after a rain-delayed series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals, manager Terry Francona emphasized the importance of balancing competitiveness with player health.
Suárez’s Return Bolsters Red Sox Showdown
Suárez, acquired in a February 3, 2026, one-year, $15 million deal, was activated from the 10-day injured list on May 22 after a left oblique strain sustained during a batting practice swing on April 25. The 34-year-old infielder, who has hit .231 with a .663 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) this season, is expected to play two of the three games against the Cardinals this weekend.
“Even his energy, his positive energy and hopefully getting back healthy, we’re going to have to pick our spots a little early,” Francona said. “We don’t want to run him into the ground.”
Suárez’s return comes at a pivotal moment. The Reds, who had previously struggled offensively, leaned on his 3-run home run in a March 29 victory over the Boston Red Sox to secure their first series win of the season. His presence provides a much-needed spark for a lineup that has averaged 3.8 runs per game through 25 contests.
Hayes’ Back Injury Sparks Rotation Adjustments
Hayes, a two-time National League Gold Glove winner acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2025, was placed on the 10-day injured list with a bulging disc in his back. The 29-year-old has batted just .142 with a .420 OPS this season, struggling to replicate the offensive production that made him a key defensive asset.
“The spasming has gotten to the point where it’s kind of gotten in the way,” Francona said. “Hopefully, we can get that settled down and get him going again.” Hayes will begin rehab at the Reds’ Goodyear, Arizona, complex, with plans to focus on improving his hitting once his back heals.
The injury has forced adjustments to the Reds’ infield. Without Hayes, Suárez and Sal Stewart will share time at third base, with Francona noting the need to “strike a balance” based on matchups and opposing pitchers.
Rotation Changes Amid Postponed Series
The postponement of the May 22 series opener due to rain necessitated last-minute changes to the Reds’ pitching staff. Starter Chris Paddack will take the mound for Saturday’s 1:10 p.m. ET game against the Cardinals’ Andre Pallante. Rookie right-hander Chase Petty, the team’s No. 7 prospect, will be called up as the 27th man for the second game at 7:15 p.m. ET.
“We don’t have a day off until Thursday, so if we didn’t do that and brought up a reliever, we would need a starter on Wednesday in New York,” Francona explained. Brady Singer, originally scheduled to start the postponed game, will now pitch Sunday’s afternoon contest.
Looking Ahead for the Reds
The Reds’ ability to manage Suárez’s workload and rehabilitate Hayes will be critical as they aim to compete in the tightly contested NL Central. With the team’s next game set for Saturday, Francona’s cautious approach reflects the challenges of maintaining consistency in a league where every matchup matters.
As the season progresses, the Reds’ focus will remain on balancing immediate needs with long-term health, ensuring both their star power and defensive core are prepared for the stretch run.
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