Cincinnati Reds infielder and outfielder Spencer Steer has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a sprained right wrist, a significant development that could alter the team's strategy approaching the Major League Baseball trade deadline.
The injury occurred Monday after Steer fouled off a pitch during an at-bat against the St. Louis Cardinals. He was seen shaking his right arm and was subsequently removed from the game. Manager Terry Francona noted that Steer did not resist coming out of the game, which raised concerns.
"He didn’t fight me to come out of that game," Francona said. "That makes me nervous. We’ll get him looked at, we’ll get him imaged, and then they’re setting up an appointment with the hand specialist."
Steer, 28, has been a key contributor for the Reds this season, posting a slash line of .242/.327/.421 with 16 home runs and 40 RBIs. He was considered one of the team's most valuable trade assets due to his offensive production, defensive versatility, and two additional years of club control beyond the 2026 season. Teams reportedly interested in acquiring Steer's services included the Mariners, Red Sox, Phillies, and Yankees.
With Steer expected to miss significant time, it is unlikely he will be traded before the Aug. 3 deadline. This injury could push the Reds further into a selling mode. The team currently holds a 49-55 record, placing them last in the National League Central and outside of playoff contention. The potential loss of Steer may lead the Reds to consider moving other players on their roster, such as outfielder JJ Bleday, who has hit .218/.313/.407 with 17 home runs and 44 RBIs.