Blake Dunn: Everything you need to know

The Reds optioned Dunn to Triple-A Louisville on Monday. Dunn entered spring training as one of eight outfielders on the 40-man roster and was one of the lesser-established options at the big-league level, so he needed a big showing in the Cactus League to have a realistic shot at making the Opening Day squad. The 27-year-old was unable to deliver, hitting just .136 with five strikeouts in 22 at-bats this spring before the Reds demoted him. He should get the chance to play regularly at Louisville to begin the season.

Dunn (knee) will start in right field and bat out of the leadoff spot for Friday's Cactus League game against the Giants, Charlie Goldsmith of Fox 19 Now Cincinnati reports. Dunn had been sidelined due to a low-grade knee strain, but the 27-year-old has been cleared to return to action Friday and will take Dane Myers' spot in the lineup after latter was scratched due to an illness. Across 10 spring games, Dunn has gone 3-for-17 with one home run and four RBI as he attempts to make the Reds' Opening Day roster for a second consecutive year.

Reds manager Terry Francona said Sunday that Dunn is day-to-day with a low-grade knee strain, Charlie Goldsmith of Fox 19 Now Cincinnati reports. The injury is expected to keep Dunn out of the Reds' Cactus League lineups for a few days, but the outfielder doesn't appear to be at any major risk of missing the start of the season. The missed game action could prove costly to Dunn in his battle for a reserve job in the Reds' Opening Day outfield, however.