The post Reds’ Will Benson makes Major League Baseball history as he struggles to hold on, scoring two runs on zero pitches, originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
The Cincinnati Reds have a decision to make about their outfield personnel.
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Probably soon.
Reds left fielder Will Benson was offered the job in spring training and scored two runs without pitching to set up his first major league start Sunday.
In a 7-4, 10-inning win over the Minnesota Twins at Target Field, Benson had his best offensive performance of the season without an umpire calling a hit. In his first 18 games, he batted .188 with three runs scored.
Over the past four seasons, in and out of the Reds lineup, the 27-year-old has failed to reach the level of 2023, when he hit 11 home runs in 108 games. In 2024, he hit just .187 in 343 at-bats. He was up and down again last year, hitting .226 but with 12 home runs.
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What chance does Benson have left?
Reds’ Will Benson fends off small game
The Reds signed free agent JJ Bleday to a one-year, $1.4 million contract last offseason, competing with Benson and Nathaniel Lowe for outfield spots during spring training.
Brady failed, largely because he had minor league options, and the power and speed potential Benson possesses remains intriguing. Brady may force the Reds front office to give him a promotion soon, especially if Benson continues to slump. The 2019 No. 4 overall pick hit .338 with five homers and 18 RBIs in 20 games with Triple-A Louisville.
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Benson may need more performances like Sunday’s to keep his spot in the MLB. He came on as a pinch-runner in the ninth inning and scored on TJ Friedl’s three-run double. In the 10th inning, Benson intentionally walked and scored on Rhys Hinds’ two-run double, limiting the scoring.
The Reds (15-8) defeated the host Tampa Bay Rays 6-1 on Monday to win their fourth straight game. The National League Central leaders have won four in a row.
Benson did not play.
How many chances does he have left?
