Reds Player Returns From Injury Ahead of Rockies Game

Reds activate Dane Myers before Rockies series

by Miracle Dimwesh

Jul 17, 2026

Cincinnati Reds, Terry Francona

Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Reds welcomed Dane Myers back from the injured list on Friday, activating the outfielder ahead of their series opener against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. To clear a spot on the 26-man roster, Cincinnati optioned utility player Ivan Johnson to Triple-A Louisville.

Myers returns after missing just over two weeks with a left shoulder contusion suffered when he crashed into the outfield wall on June 29. The 30-year-old completed a brief rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League before being cleared to rejoin Terry Francona's roster.

The Reds entered the second half at 43-52 and last in the National League Central, making Myers' return a timely boost for an injury-hit outfield. He has appeared in 63 games this season, batting .256/.358/.385 with three home runs, 14 RBIs and five stolen bases.

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Myers is expected to resume a platoon role in the Reds' outfield, giving Cincinnati another right-handed option against left-handed pitching. His return also provides added defensive versatility as the club continues to deal with injuries throughout the roster.

The Reds have been without several key contributors, including Matt McLain, Nick Lodolo and Graham Ashcraft. Getting Myers back gives Francona another experienced option as Cincinnati looks to climb back into contention after the All-Star break.

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona (77)

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Johnson's return to Louisville comes after a brief Major League stint that began when Myers landed on the injured list. The 27-year-old served primarily as a reserve and went hitless in five at-bats before Friday's roster move.

Cincinnati hopes Myers can quickly provide a spark as the club opens a road series against Colorado. While the Reds remain 15.5 games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers, the return of a productive outfielder offers some much-needed depth during a stretch that could shape the team's trade deadline plans.

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