The Cincinnati Reds have sent outfielder Will Benson back to their Triple-A squad, the Louisville Bats. This marks his third demotion of the season.
Benson, now 27, has had a wild 2025 campaign. He’s enjoyed some flashes of success with the Reds but lost playing time as the roster kept changing.
The team’s recent trade moves, especially picking up Miguel Andujar, really shook up the outfield. The Reds also promoted pitcher Lyon Richardson from Louisville, signaling their ongoing effort to tweak the roster.
Will Benson’s Journey: From Promising Stints to Triple-A Setbacks
Benson opened 2025 in Triple-A Louisville but soon found himself bouncing between the majors and minors. His first call-up came during a series against the San Francisco Giants, where he struck out in all four at-bats.
That brief stint led to a quick return to the minors. Even so, Benson didn’t let the setback define him.
Benson’s Hot Streak: A Glimmer of Hope
When Benson got his second shot with the Reds in early May, he made it count. Against the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago White Sox, he went on a tear, smashing five homers in just four games.
That power surge showed off his raw talent and sparked talk of a breakout year. Still, as summer rolled on, Benson saw his playing time shrink.
The Reds made big moves at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, bringing in new faces and shifting the lineup. For Benson, that meant even fewer chances to prove himself.
The Miguel Andujar Factor: A Trade Deadline Shake-Up
One of the Reds’ biggest deadline moves was trading for outfielder Miguel Andujar from the Oakland Athletics. They sent pitcher Kenya Huggins the other way.
Andujar, who can also play left field, added even more competition to a crowded outfield. His arrival really changed the outlook for Benson this season.
Andujar’s Reds Debut Amid Roster Changes
Andujar made his Reds debut at the Speedway Classic in Bristol, Tennessee. The game got postponed by rain, but the message was clear—Benson’s spot was at risk.
When play resumed, it was obvious the Reds wanted Andujar in the lineup. Benson’s latest demotion seems directly tied to this move.
Meanwhile, the Reds also called up pitcher Lyon Richardson from Louisville. Richardson’s promotion fits with the team’s push to reshape the roster after the deadline.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Will Benson?
This latest move puts Benson’s future with the Reds up in the air. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, but the outfield is packed and the team wants consistency.
The Reds’ focus on fresh talent makes it tough for Benson to find a foothold right now.
Potential Scenarios for Benson’s Future
There are a few ways things could go for Benson:
Final Thoughts: Benson’s Talent vs. Team Strategy
Will Benson’s season shows just how unforgiving professional baseball can be. Talent alone doesn’t always keep a player in the big leagues.
He flashed real potential during his May hot streak. Then the Reds started shuffling their roster, and suddenly Benson’s momentum hit a wall.
Right now, he’s back in Louisville. Reds fans are left wondering if he’ll get another shot soon, or if the team’s bold moves will keep him stuck in the minors.
Benson’s story reminds us that fortunes in sports can shift overnight. Sure, talent matters, but timing and the team’s needs can matter just as much—maybe even more.
Here is the source article for this story: Reds move to option Will Benson to minor leagues as Speedway Classic resumes
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