Blake

Dunn

Dunn’s homer was a two-run blast off Stephen Kolek that tied the game in the fifth. The Reds have cycled through leadoff hitters this season, but Dunn has occupied the spot in 10 of their past 11 contests. The lineup isn’t as dangerous without Elly De La Cruz, but it’s a nice role to have with a great home park to hit in and summer weather approaching.

Myers hasn’t come off Cincinnati’s bench since last Friday due to illness. The 30-year-old reserve outfielder is presumably available, if needed, after getting a couple days off to rest and recover. Blake Dunn will continue handling center field and leading off for the Reds.

Here’s something you don’t see everyday: a batter coming to the plate six times in a game where their team only scored two runs. Just about the only way to do that is by stranding 17 runners on base like the Reds did here. Dunn contributed to that number himself too, by making two outs with runners in scoring position including a game-ending strikeout with the bases loaded. Nevertheless, this was his fourth straight game hitting lead-off – against a mix of right and left-handed pitchers – and he has instant fantasy value in that role.

Dunn occupies Cincinnati’s leadoff spot for the fifth straight contest and is slashing .311/.380/.467 with one homer, two RBI and two steals in 15 games since coming up from Triple-A Louisville. There’s nothing in the 27-year-old’s extensive track record in the upper minors that suggests he’s be a highly impactful fantasy contributor as a power/speed combo threat, but he’s likely to remain a strong batting average source based on his ability to maintain a high BABIP thanks to his athleticism. There’s some limited fantasy appeal in deeper mixed leagues, especially if he’s going to stick in the leadoff spot ahead of Cincinnati’s middle-of-the-order mashers.

Dunn’s game-winner was credited as a fielder’s choice. He got a soft liner past the pitcher, and Spencer Steer, who was on third, was able to score just ahead of Masyn Winn’s throw from shortstop. Still, Dunn did have two singles earlier, and he went 1-for-3 in the matinee. He’s batting .351/.400/.541 in 40 plate appearances, and he seems poised to play regularly in the Reds outfield until he slows down.

With the Cubs throwing a lefty, Dunn was making his first start in five games since being called up Sunday. Dunn struck out his first two times up against Shota Imanaga, but he then had a bunt single in the sixth and he homered off righty Gavin Hollowell in the eighth. It was his third major league homer. He had one in 29 plate appearances in 2024 and one in 75 plate appearances last year.

Dunn was off to a solid start at the Triple-A level, slashing .277.365/.353 with one homer, 13 RBI and seven stolen bases across his first 138 plate appearances. He’ll function in a reserve outfielder role for the Reds and can continue to be ignored for fantasy purposes. Rece Hinds was optioned to Triple-A Louisville in a corresponding move on Sunday.

Dunn’s chances of making the opening day roster were hurt when the Reds added both JJ Bleday and Dane Myers. Dunn also hyperextended his knee in spring training, which didn’t help. The 27-year-old is on the 40-man roster and has a minor league option left, so he will likely either begin the season on the IL or in Triple-A.

The 27-year-old outfielder was able to walk off the field under his own power on Friday after suffering the injury and the Reds are hopeful that he was able to avoid any serious injury. He’ll be re-evaluated on Saturday.

Dunn really struggled with the bat during his time with the Reds, slashing a woeful .150/.320/.233 with one homer, seven RBI, one stolen base and a 25/8 K/BB ratio over 75 plate appearances. He should get another opportunity with the big league club at some point before the summer is through. Will Benson was recalled from Triple-A Louisville to replace him on the active roster.