Analyst Breaks Down JJ Bleday's Success With Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds need an offensive boost. Sal Stewart has displayed potential in his rookie year, while Elly De La Cruz is a star. However, one player who is quietly making an impact in the lineup is JJ Bleday.

Bleday, 28, is hitting .321/.455/.755 in 21 games with Cincinnati this year. He also has six home runs. A former No. 4 overall pick, it seems as if Bleday is putting everything together.

Bleday made his MLB debut with the Miami Marlins in 2022. He then played for the Athletics from 2023-2025. There were times he displayed potential, but Bleday was unable to find consistent success. Perhaps that is changing in 2026. Right now, he looks like one of the best hitters on the Reds.

Former MLB player and current analyst Mark DeRosa recently gave a breakdown of Bleday's success at the plate during a segment on MLB Network.

As mentioned, De La Cruz is a great player. Stewart is going to be a star in MLB. Eugenio Suarez will make a significant impact once he returns from injury. The Reds need others to step up, though.

Bleday is getting the job done right now. He is an impactful player. The Reds need other players to make impacts as well, but they certainly will not complain about Bleday's production so far in 2026.

Reds Trying to Get Back on Track

Cincinnati was one of the better teams in MLB earlier in the season. They have struggled in recent action, however. The Reds were 3-7 over their past 10 games heading into Friday night's contest against the Cleveland Guardians.