Edwin Arroyo EARNED his way onto Cincinnati Reds roster after Elly De La Cruz returns | Breakdown

One of the biggest storylines surrounding the Cincinnati Reds right now is what happens when superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz returns from the injured list. Since being promoted following De La Cruz’s hamstring injury, Edwin Arroyo has shown exactly why he entered the season as one of the organization’s top prospects.

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Arroyo earned his call-up after dominating Triple-A Louisville, where he hit .323 with 11 home runs and an OPS north of .900 through 53 games. The Reds viewed him as one of their most MLB-ready prospects, and his promotion provided an opportunity to evaluate whether he could be part of the club’s long-term plans.

At the major league level, Arroyo has looked comfortable and confident. His defensive versatility, mature approach at the plate, and ability to handle premium positions have given manager Terry Francona additional flexibility. Most recently, Arroyo collected four hits and reached base five times in Cincinnati’s 10-2 win over the Yankees, further strengthening his case for remaining in the big leagues.

However, the roster crunch is coming. Elly De La Cruz has already begun his rehab assignment and appears to be nearing a return to Cincinnati.

The most straightforward option would be to option Arroyo back to Triple-A Louisville. From a roster management standpoint, this makes the most sense. Arroyo still has minor-league options remaining, would continue receiving everyday at-bats, and could be recalled later in the season if injuries occur or additional opportunities emerge.

A second possibility is for the Reds to keep Arroyo on the active roster and option an outfielder instead. Arroyo’s ability to play multiple infield positions could make him a valuable bench piece while also allowing Cincinnati to rotate players around the diamond. If the Reds believe his bat is ready for major-league pitching, keeping him in Cincinnati would maximize organizational depth while providing insurance behind De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and the rest of the infield.

The third angle involves trade value. Arroyo entered 2026 as one of the Reds’ most highly regarded prospects and has only enhanced that reputation with his performance in Louisville and Cincinnati. With De La Cruz locked in as the franchise shortstop and other young infielders already on the roster, Arroyo could become one of the organization’s most attractive trade chips ahead of future deadlines. His age, switch-hitting profile, defensive ability, and prospect pedigree would make him appealing to clubs seeking a long-term middle infielder.

The Reds may not need to make a permanent decision immediately, but Arroyo’s performance has ensured that the conversation is no longer hypothetical. Whether he returns to Louisville, sticks on the major league roster, or eventually becomes a centerpiece in a trade, Edwin Arroyo has made it clear that he belongs in Cincinnati’s long-term plans.