Reds Option Noelvi Marte to Triple-A Amid Struggles at Plate

The Cincinnati Reds have sent infielder-turned-outfielder Noelvi Marte back to Triple-A Louisville for the second time this season, a move that raises questions about his long-term future with the franchise. Manager Terry Francona indicated that while the 24-year-old possesses the physical tools for an everyday role, he has struggled to contribute consistently on both sides of the ball.

Marte’s performance at the Major League level has lagged significantly behind his production in the minors. Through 201 plate appearances this season, he managed a batting average of just .189, including a stretch where he recorded only four hits in his last 30 at-bats. This downturn is a stark contrast to his numbers at Louisville, where he was hitting .369 with eight home runs and 27 RBIs through mid-August. The organization previously demoted him in April after he opened the season with a .138 average.

Advanced metrics highlight the specific difficulties Marte has faced against big-league pitching. His chase rate sits at 41.2%, meaning he is swinging at pitches outside the strike zone far more often than the league average of roughly 30%. Additionally, his barrel percentage has dropped from 9.1% last season to 5.1% this year, accompanied by a decrease in exit velocity.

Despite these struggles, Marte remains under contract with a $790,000 salary and is arbitration-eligible for 2027, though potential labor disputes could alter the offseason landscape. With speculation mounting that a change of scenery might be necessary, the Reds will now see if he can regain his form in the minors or if his tenure in Cincinnati is concluding.

The Cincinnati games are broadcast regionally on networks owned by Comcast Corporation, whose stock was up 2.36% today. As a media conglomerate with holdings in broadcast and theme parks, Comcast’s sports portfolio remains a key component of its broader media segment.

What to watch

• Marte’s performance statistics upon returning to the Louisville lineup.
• Reds roster moves regarding the outfield spot vacated by Marte.
• Updates on Marte’s arbitration status heading into the 2027 season.

Source: original release