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ANALYSIS: The Minor League OPS leader and No. 5 prospect in the Cincinnati Reds farm system, Matt McLain was called up on Sunday and debuted in Monday's series opener in Colorado.
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Before being promoted to the pros, McLain was the sole leader in the minor leagues in OPS (1.184) and hit 12 home runs through 173 PAs. Out of the surplus infielders in the Reds farm system, McLain has made the loudest noise at the plate which prompted his promotion. In his debut on Monday, the 23-year-old recorded his first career hit and went 1-for-4 at the plate.
McLain took a huge leap at the plate this season following a disappointing year in 2022. He slashed .232/.363/.453 with 17 HRs through 103 games at Double-A Chattanooga, but he has stepped up immensely through the first month and a half of this season. Through 38 games at Triple-A Louisville, the shortstop was hitting an absurd .348/.474/.710.
His swinging numbers have improved tremendously from last season in the form of a 19.7% K rate and 16.8% walk rate. He was on pace to completely shatter his 58 RBI season in Double-A last season as demonstrated by his 40 RBI mark before reaching 200 at-bats. He's been a more polished hitter in every facet to begin the season, and the obvious question would be if McLain's success will translate into the big leagues.
Due to his smaller build, McLain won't typically generate too much power and will likely mold into a 15-20 home run hitter in the pros. His abilities on the basepaths and above-average defensive abilities are paramount to his hitting abilities, but his recent stint at the plate is proving otherwise. If the California native can sustain his absurd hot streak and produce consistent contact, he could find a permanent spot in the Reds lineup.
McLain has been a hot pickup on the waiver wire since being promoted, most notably with a 40% roster increase since last week. If he's still available in your league, I highly suggest adding him to your squad.
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