Cincinnati Reds prospect Edwin Arroyo is back on track after a season-long absence due to a shoulder injury that sidelined him just when the team needed infield depth the most. The shortstop, acquired from Seattle in the Luis Castillo trade, suffered a torn labrum during spring training, ruling him out for the 2024 season.
With several key injuries to Reds’ infielders like Noelvi Marte, Matt McLain, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Arroyo could have been a vital addition to the team last season. Instead, he has spent the year rehabbing and is now making a significant impact in the Arizona Fall League with the Glendale Desert Dogs, recently recording a 4-hit performance.
Arroyo, a switch-hitter, admitted that the shoulder injury particularly affected his ability to hit from both sides. However, his recovery progress is evident, and his fielding skills have never been in question. As his swing improves, Arroyo is positioning himself to be a major part of the Reds’ crowded infield future, presenting the team with the challenge of finding a spot for him sooner rather than later.
