Cincinnati Reds Roster Moves: Claim Pitcher Roddery Munoz, Add Jose Franco | MLB Off Season News
Nick Kirby and Craig Sandlin break down all the latest Cincinnati Reds offseason news. The guys discuss the Reds claiming RHP Roddery Muñoz, adding Jose Franco to the 40-man roster, and losing LHP Reiver Sanmartín to the San Francisco Giants. They also cover several players reinstated from the injured list, including Julian Aguiar, Tyler Callihan, Rhett Lowder, Carson Spiers, and Brandon Williamson.
Nick and Craig react to manager Terry Francona’s comments from the first Reds Hot Stove radio show and dive into the newly released Reds Hall of Fame ballot, debating who deserves induction among Homer Bailey, Francisco Cordero, Zack Cozart, Aaron Harang, Mike Leake, Brandon Phillips, Scott Rolen, and Edinson Volquez.
They also touch on the Arizona Fall League, highlighting the upcoming Fall Stars Game featuring Rhett Lowder, Cam Collier, and Leo Balcazar, plus discuss a bold trade idea — Hunter Greene for Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Cincinnati Reds 2025-26 Offseason Outlook
The Cincinnati Reds enter the 2025-26 offseason at a pivotal point. After finishing 83-79 and earning their first full-season playoff berth since 2013, the Reds have reestablished themselves as a legitimate contender in the National League. Now comes the challenge of sustaining that progress while addressing several roster needs.
Key Free Agents and Roster Moves
The Reds have multiple decisions to make with their pending free agents, including Miguel Andujar, Zack Littell, Nick Martinez, and Emilio Pagán. None are expected to receive qualifying offers, but their departures would leave gaps in both the lineup and bullpen. The front office also faces option calls on Austin Hays, Brent Suter, and Scott Barlow, all of whom could impact the team’s payroll flexibility.
Beyond free agency, Cincinnati must also determine which young players to protect from the Rule 5 Draft. Prospects like Edwin Arroyo, Héctor Rodríguez, and Leo Balcázar have progressed enough to warrant 40-man roster consideration. The team has already made a few minor roster adjustments, hinting that bullpen changes and depth moves will continue through the winter.
Offensive Improvements Needed
Despite their playoff berth, the Reds’ offense struggled at times in 2025. The club ranked in the bottom third of MLB in home runs, OPS, and overall run production. Too often, the lineup relied on streaky power rather than consistent contact and situational hitting.
President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall has stated that improving the offense will be a top offseason priority. While big-name free agents may be out of reach financially, Cincinnati could explore trades or mid-tier signings to add another impact bat. Internal development will also be key — players like Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand are expected to take another step forward in 2026.
Bullpen and Pitching Depth
The bullpen was a strength for much of 2025, but several key relievers are entering free agency. Re-signing or replacing those arms will be a major focus. The Reds may look to supplement their relief corps with experienced middle relievers or cost-effective veterans.
The rotation remains solid at the top, led by Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Graham Ashcraft, but depth beyond the front three is still a concern. Finding reliable fourth and fifth starters — or swingmen capable of handling spot starts — could help stabilize the pitching staff over a 162-game season.
Youth Movement and Long-Term Strategy
Cincinnati continues to lean heavily on its young core and deep farm system. The organization’s success in developing homegrown players will determine how far it can go under current budget constraints. Several young position players and pitchers are expected to compete for roster spots during spring training.
Financially, the Reds are likely to stay disciplined. Krall’s front office has focused on sustainable roster building rather than short-term spending sprees. The goal is to keep the team competitive while maintaining payroll flexibility for future seasons.
Final Outlook
The Reds’ offseason hinges on balance — upgrading the roster without overextending resources. If they can add a productive bat, reinforce the bullpen, and continue developing their young core, Cincinnati has the potential to make another leap forward in 2026. However, standing pat could risk stagnation in an increasingly competitive National League.