Stuart Fairchild

Fairchild opened 2023 on the major league roster and played regularly as a starter or late-game sub against left-handers over the first two-and-a-half months before being optioned to Triple-A Louisville with a .237 average over 64 games. He eventually finished the year in the majors, mostly as a fifth outfielder with stretches as a starter when injuries hit. With Spencer Steer expected to see most of his time in the outfield, a competition for fifth outfielder should play out during spring training. Fairchild brings above-average defense at all three outfield spots and speed, which gives him a leg up on the competition. That he doesn't have options remaining works in his favor, as Nick Martini still has one left. The Reds could option Martini, leaving Fairchild and Jose Barrero, whose primary position is shortstop, to compete for a job. Read Past Outlooks