Baseball America projects Reds 2027 lineup with shocking prediction at third base

Baseball America is well regarded for their scouting of young players, prospect rankings, and predictions.

The outlet has been identifying the future stars of baseball for decades now, so when columnists and editors at Baseball America put something in writing, it's oftentimes hard to ignore.

Recently, Baseball America (subscription required) released their updated prospect rankings for the Cincinnati Reds and projected the team's Opening Day lineup for 2027. While most of the projections seem to be spot on, there was one shocking name predicted to be taking over at the hot corner.

Baseball America believes that the Cincinnati Reds will not be shopping Jonathan India this offseason. In fact, editor-in-chief J.J. Cooper of Baseball America has India lining up to be the Reds third baseman on Opening Day in 2027.

Now, don't freak out - Noelvi Marte is still part of the team. In this projected starting lineup, Marte is predicted to the team's right fielder along with Spencer Steer in left field and emerging prospect Carlos Jorge in center field.

Lining up on the infield dirt alongside India are Elly De La Cruz (shortstop), Matt McLain (second base), and Christian Encarnacion-Strand (first base). Sal Stewart is tabbed as the Reds' DH and Tyler Stephenson will be hanging the signs.

This would be quite the formidable starting lineup for the Cincinnati Reds, and one that's not too much of stretch. While some fans believe that it's not a matter of if, but when, Jonathan India will be traded, Cincinnati has no real motivation to move him at this time.

While India is viewed as limited defensively, quite frankly the Reds have never tried the 26-year-old at third base; a position he played for several years at the University of Florida and in the minor leagues.

As for Noelvi Marte in the outfield, it seems very plausible. Some Reds fans have been advocating for Elly De La Cruz to make a move from the infield dirt to the outfield grass, but the same idea would hold true for Marte. The rookie has the speed and arm strength to play the position.

Baseball America also predicted the Cincinnati Reds 2027 Opening Day starting rotation. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Rhett Lowder, Andrew Abbott, and Chase Petty made the cut, with Connor Phillips taking on the role of closer.