Early in spring training, the Cincinnati Reds split their big league camp between two fields.
On one, regulars like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain practiced, while the other field hosted prospects and non-roster invitees, including Noelvi Marte, Ivan Johnson, Edwin Arroyo, Cam Collier, Sal Stewart, and Cooper Bowman.
Marte, the Reds’ starting third baseman in 2024, had struggled the previous season and needed to prove himself to reclaim his role.
Early in camp, he was sent to minor league camp with manager Terry Francona telling him to earn his way back.
Five months later, Marte is now a key contributor as the Reds fight to stay in playoff contention, emerging as one of the team’s top development stories.
“He’s understanding what it takes to be a Major League everyday player,” Francona said.
“His tools are obvious, but he’s playing the game smart—moving runners, running hard. I’m proud of him.”
In a recent win over Arizona, Marte showcased his baseball IQ, hitting a line drive that turned into a game-tying play and later scoring the go-ahead run after an impressive tag-up.
Among MLB players 23 or younger with at least 200 plate appearances, only eight—including Marte—have an OPS above .800. Despite having the fewest plate appearances in this group, Marte ranks second in OPS.
Jose Trevino praised Marte’s growth, noting that his development this season is significant for both the present and the future.
Marte himself shared, “I’m feeling my best right now. My confidence level is through the roof, better than ever.”
Noelvi Marte
Marte began the season in Triple-A, earning call-ups due to injuries on the Reds’ roster.
Noelvi Marte
After initially starting only one of his first three games, he exploded on April 20 with five hits and seven RBIs in a blowout win over the Orioles.
He became an everyday player until an oblique strain sidelined him for roughly two months.
Remarkably, he returned in July still carrying the momentum he had built.
Defense at third base remained a challenge, and Francona occasionally substituted Marte late in games.
In mid-July, Marte transitioned to the outfield, which alleviated pressure and allowed him to focus on hitting and playing freely.
“Maybe someone just needs a change of scenery,” TJ Friedl said. “He’s put in so much work in right field and it’s been incredible to watch him play loose and confident.”
Teammates like Gavin Lux and Nick Martinez highlighted how the move to the outfield has boosted Marte’s confidence and performance at the plate.
Since the switch, he’s been hitting .330 with an .880 OPS, making smart base-running decisions and showing improvement defensively.
At just 23, Marte is still learning a new position in his 162nd MLB game but is already a standout player with a high ceiling.
