When the Cincinnati Reds received the 1990 World Sequence, Barry Larkin was the beginning shortstop. In 1995, Larkin received the Nationwide League MVP because the Reds received the Nationwide League Central and reached the NLCS. So far, the Reds haven’t received one other World Sequence or superior within the postseason.
Following practically one month’s value of video games towards a few of the Nationwide League’s greatest groups in 2026, Larkin couldn’t assist however observe how distant the Reds are from these groups.
Barry Larkin: Cincinnati Reds ‘Are So, So Far Behind’
Taking part in their closing house sport of the 2026 season, the Reds have been soundly overwhelmed by the Chicago Cubs, shedding 9-1. That sport concluded a 22-game stretch the place Cincinnati performed six video games towards each the Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers, seven video games towards the Los Angeles Dodgers and three towards the San Diego Padres.
The Reds went 9-13 towards a few of the NL’s greatest groups, going 3-10 over the ultimate 13 video games. And instantly after the loss to the Cubs, Larkin made it clear — the Reds have quite a lot of work to do.
“I believe these final three weeks of baseball taking part in towards a few of the higher groups which might be going to be going to the postseason actually illustrates how far we’re behind at this massive league degree,” Larkin mentioned, H/T Chatterbox Sports activities on X.
“And alter has to occur,” he continued. “This metropolis deserves higher than that, and I do know each participant down there feels that. However one thing has to offer. We’ve to get higher as a result of we’re so, thus far behind.”
Cincinnati will get another take a look at a playoff-bound group with a three-game collection towards the Atlanta Braves.
Joey Votto Flatly Agreed With Larkin’s Take
Naturally, Larkin’s feedback have been co-signed by quite a lot of already-frustrated Reds followers.
Another person who agreed was one other franchise legend, 2010 NL MVP Joey Votto.
“Captain Lark,” Votto mentioned, including a “100” emoji in settlement.
The Reds do have some robust constructing blocks on the sector. Shortstop Elly De La Cruz is an simple star, whereas Sal Stewart is having among the best rookie seasons in franchise historical past and is closely favored to win the NL Rookie of the 12 months. That mentioned, there are different holes all through the roster that, as Larkin mentioned, will have to be mounted for the Reds to actually compete with baseball’s greatest.
If Cincinnati goes to make drastic modifications on the sector, the choices will probably be made by the identical group of individuals. The Reds beforehand introduced that their entrance workplace will probably be retained, as will supervisor Terry Francona.
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