Matt McLain

Matt McLain told reporters he added 12 pounds of muscle this offseason.

Fantasy Impact

McLain noted that it's the first full offseason he's had not needing to rehab. "It feels like a fresh start," he added. He struggled in his return from shoulder surgery last season. He's in line to have a chance to bounce back this upcoming season.

Matt McLain and the Cincinnati Reds agreed on a $2.3 million contract for the 2026 season to avoid arbitration.

Fantasy Impact

After missing all of 2024 due to shoulder surgery, McLain returned in 2025 but struggled to a .220 batting average in 577 plate appearances with the Reds. McLain did hit 15 home runs and stole 18 bases, but it was a decline from his rookie campaign in 2023 when he hit .290 with 16 home runs and 15 stolen bases in 403 plate appearances. McLain will again serve as the starting second baseman for the Reds and is certainly a bounce back candidate in 2026.

Matt McLain went 1-for-3 in the win against the Cubs, contributing with a home run, an RBI, and one run scored, while striking out twice.

Fantasy Impact

After today’s victory, McLain has a .223 batting average with 15 home runs and 49 RBI across 139 games this season.

Matt McLain went 1-for-2 in the win over the Mets, driving in one run with a home run while also walking twice.

Fantasy Impact

The second baseman has caught fire at the plate, hitting .429 with three home runs and six RBI over his last seven games for the Reds. After yesterday’s victory, McLain's season stats stand at a .230 batting average with 14 home runs, 46 RBI, and 67 runs scored across 127 games.

Matt McLain went 2-for-4 with an RBI, a run scored, and a strikeout in the Reds’ 12-9 loss on Tuesday.

Fantasy Impact

McLain brought his hit total to 99 and RBI count to 43 while lifting his average to .226 across 439 at-bats. Despite a down year at the plate, his multi-position eligibility and pop (13 HR) still make him a viable option in deeper formats.