Reds' lineup makes Cincinnati franchise history not done since 1987

The Cincinnati Reds have plenty of reason for optimism in the 2026 MLB season.

Some of that stems from the talented youth they've got in the starting lineup, so much so that they're making franchise history on Thursday that hasn't been done since 1987.

The key is this: The Reds are starting three players age 24 or younger for the first time on Opening Day since 1987, according to Matt Wilkes.

The three youngsters on Thursday:

• Elly De La Cruz
• Sal Stewart
• Noelvi Marte

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The three youngsters from 1987:

• Barry Larkin
• Kal Daniels
• Eric Davis

Definitely some cool company for this season's young trio to keep.

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Cincinnati Reds' Opening Day lineup

This is what the entire lineup looks like for the Reds:

1. T.J. Friedl CF
2. Matt McLain 2B
3. Elly De La Cruz SS
4. Sal Stewart 1B
5. Eugenio Suarez DH
6. Spencer Steer LF
7. Tyler Stephenson C
8. Noelvi Marte RF
9. Ke'Bryan Hayes 3B

The Reds are starting Andrew Abbott on the mound.

They're facing Boston Red Sox southpaw ace Garrett Crochet.

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