Three hitters off to scorching starts after MLB's opening weekend

The left-handed bat will likely continue to see the bulk of his playing time come when a right-hander is on the mound, and if he can continue to produce he will give the up-and-coming Reds another weapon off the bench when he doesn't start.  

Jared Walsh, first base, Texas Rangers

2024 MLB stats: .444/.444/.889, one home run and two RBI in three games played

An All-Star in 2021 as a member of the Los Angeles Angels, Walsh has gotten off to a hot start after two straight abysmal years that led to him parting ways with the Angels this past offseason.

After signing a minor league contract with the Rangers, Walsh was expected to compete for a bench spot in 2024. But starting first baseman Nathaniel Lowe went on the injured list to begin the season, opening a spot for the 30-year-old.

Starting the season 4-for-9 with one home run and one double, Walsh has looked like the slugger that hit 29 home runs for his now division-rival Angels during his only All-Star season. 

With Lowe not expected back until mid-to-late April, Walsh will look to continue making an impact for the defending World Series champions. 

Oswaldo Cabrera, third base, New York Yankees

2024 MLB stats: .438/.471/.875, two home runs and six RBI in four games played

Coming into the 2024 season, the Yankees were thought to have a weakness at the hot corner with third baseman DJ LeMahieu starting the season on the injured list. Cabrera has eased those fears.

After an abysmal spring that saw him slash .213/.302/.362 with two home runs and three RBI in 20 games played, Cabrera has been on fire to begin the 2024 season with two home runs and six RBI.

Instrumental in the Yankees opening series sweep of the Houston Astros, Cabrera credited his hot start to watching his new teammate Juan Soto and how he takes command at the plate.

Look for Cabrera to try and put a stranglehold on the third base position with LeMahieu still weeks away from a return.