Cincinnati Reds infielder Jonathan India will be sidelined for several weeks after re-aggravating a foot injury.
According to Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer, manager David Bell mentioned that Jonathan India won’t participate in spring games until around March 7 or 8. Due to the nature of the injury, there’s a reduced risk of further aggravation, but they are gradually increasing his workload in a controlled manner.
India will engage in activities like live batting practices where the team can manage his base running.
India has a history of dealing with plantar fasciitis, suggesting that this recent injury may be a recurrence of that condition.
The 27-year-old India enjoyed a stellar rookie season in 2021, earning the Rookie of the Year award. However, his performance has declined slightly in subsequent years. In 2021, he batted .269 with 21 home runs and maintained a .376 on-base percentage. His playing time decreased in 2022, appearing in just 103 games and hitting .249 with 10 home runs. In 2023, he played 119 games, batting .244 with a .338 on-base percentage and hitting 17 home runs.
Given the surplus of infielders on the team, Jonathan India is expected to transition into more of a utility role for the Reds this season. With players like Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, and Jeimer Candelario already in the mix, India may see playing time at first base or left field, in addition to his usual spot at second base.
The Reds boast a wealth of young talent in their position player roster, leading many to predict that they will make a strong push for the playoffs this year. Cincinnati hasn’t made a playoff appearance since the shortened 2020 season due to COVID-19, during which they were eliminated by the Atlanta Braves.
