Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Reds Fill 40-Man at Rule 5 Deadline, DFA Carson Spiers to Protect Prospects

The Rule 5 protection deadline prompted Cincinnati to prioritize prospect protection over a roster spot for injured right-hander Carson Spiers.

Overview

  • The Reds selected shortstop Edwin Arroyo, infielder Leo Balcazar and outfielder Hector Rodriguez to the 40-man roster, protecting them from the Rule 5 Draft.
  • The 40-man roster now stands at 40 following the additions and corresponding move.
  • Right-hander Carson Spiers was designated for assignment after undergoing elbow surgery in July and is expected to miss most or all of the 2026 season.
  • Coverage differs on whether Spiers had Tommy John surgery or an internal-brace procedure, leaving his precise return timeline uncertain.
  • Arroyo is ranked No. 8 in the organization by MLB Pipeline with Rodriguez at No. 9 and Balcazar at No. 23, and Arroyo rebounded in Double-A in 2025 after missing 2024 with shoulder surgery.