Christian Encarnacion-Strand Placed on 10-Day IL with Back Injury, Noelvi Marte Recalled

On April 17, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds placed first baseman Christian Encarnacion-Strand on the 10-day injured list due to lower back inflammation. Manager Terry Francona emphasized the importance of caution, given Encarnacion-Strand's injury history, including a fractured hand last season. In a corresponding move, the team recalled infielder Noelvi Marte from Triple-A Louisville. 

Encarnacion-Strand, 25, has struggled offensively this season, batting .158 with two home runs and five RBIs in 18 games. He missed two games earlier in the week due to the back issue and has been playing through the discomfort. Given his previous injury setbacks, including a fractured right wrist that limited him to 29 games last season, the Reds opted to place him on the IL to allow for proper recovery. 

In his absence, the Reds are considering various options at first base. Jeimer Candelario started at first in the series finale against the Mariners, and Spencer Steer, who has been limited to designated hitter duties due to a shoulder issue, is close to returning to the field. Utility player Santiago Espinal, while not having experience at first base, has been practicing the position to provide additional coverage.

The Reds hope that Encarnacion-Strand's time on the IL will allow him to fully recover and return to form, contributing to the team's success in the upcoming games. 

The Reds are scheduled to play the Baltimore Orioles on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 4:05 PM PDT .