Christian Encarnacion-Strand: Everything you need to know

The Reds traded Encarnacion-Strand to the Orioles on Monday in exchange for cash considerations. Encarnacion-Strand failed to make the Reds' Opening Day roster and was DFA'd by the team this past Wednesday. He'll get a new opportunity with the Orioles, and while he's been assigned to Triple-A Norfolk, Encarnacion-Strand could see some major-league action at first base due to the absence of Ryan Mountcastle (foot). Across 10 games in Triple-A this season, Encarnacion-Strand has gone 8-for-36 (.222) with five runs scored, two homers and eight RBI.

The Reds designated Encarnacion-Strand for assignment Wednesday. The transaction clears a spot on the 40-man roster for the addition of P.J. Higgins. Encarnacion-Strand looked like a potential building block for the Reds a couple years ago, but he's struggled at the big-league level since the beginning of the 2024 campaign and has dealt with numerous injuries. He's still just 26 and has plenty of power potential, so there should be some interest in Encarnacion-Strand via waivers.

The Reds optioned Encarnacion-Strand to minor-league camp Monday. Encarnacion-Strand entered spring training looking like a long shot to make the team, and coming to camp with a hamstring injury didn't help his chances. He's healthy now but will begin the season at Triple-A Louisville.