Cincinnati Reds Under-the-Radar Free Agent TARGETS | Chatterbox Reds MLB Off-Season News and Rumors
Nick Kirby and Mike Hart dive into the most intriguing under-the-radar free agent targets who were non-tendered this offseason and could become impactful additions for the Cincinnati Reds. They break down why these players were surprisingly cut loose, how they fit the Reds’ roster needs, and which upside swings could pay off in a big way for 2025 and beyond.
The episode covers a wide range of potential targets, including former All-Star Adolis García, power bat JJ Bleday, first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, versatile slugger Christopher Morel, and bullpen arm Mark Leiter Jr. Nick and Mike also analyze pitching options such as Joe Lucchesi, Colin Holderman, John King, and elite reliever Evan Phillips, along with emerging talents like Tim Elko, Eli Morgan, Alexander Canario, MJ Melendez, and Michael Toglia.
Whether you’re looking for smart depth plays, high-upside hitters, or bullpen reinforcements, this episode breaks down the names Reds fans should have on their radar. A must-listen for anyone following the Cincinnati Reds’ offseason strategy, payroll flexibility, and free agent market opportunities.
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The Cincinnati Reds enter this offseason in one of the most fascinating positions in Major League Baseball—armed with payroll flexibility, a deep farm system, and a clear opportunity to contend in the NL Central, yet still facing major questions about how aggressive they’ll be. After a 2024 season defined by injuries, inconsistency, and flashes of real competitiveness, the front office now has a chance to reshape the roster in a meaningful way. This winter isn’t only about adding talent; it’s about building balance, reliability, and a higher floor around a young core that’s already shown it can win.
At the top of the Reds’ to-do list is upgrading the starting rotation. Cincinnati has promising arms—Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott—but durability concerns and workload management mean the Reds need at least one proven starter, if not two. A mid-rotation innings-eater remains a priority, but the club could explore bigger upside plays depending on price. The Reds have avoided long, expensive pitching contracts in the past, yet with payroll flexibility and a competitive window opening, this is the offseason where a strategic splash is both justified and expected.
The bullpen also requires attention. While Alexis Díaz remains the closer, his volatility in 2024 exposed Cincinnati’s lack of dependable setup arms. The Reds could pursue a veteran stabilizer, ideally someone with strikeout upside and late-inning experience. Depth matters, too—Cincinnati cycled through dozens of relievers last season, and reinforcing the middle relief corps would help protect the rotation and prevent another year of overuse.
Offensively, the Reds need to find more consistency, particularly against right-handed pitching. Their lineup features dynamic young players—Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Noelvi Marte—but the group struggled with contact and situational hitting. A corner outfielder with on-base skills or left-handed pop would significantly balance the batting order. Even a versatile veteran bat could help stabilize a lineup prone to long droughts.
Another storyline to watch is how the Reds handle their internal traffic jam. They have more infielders than positions, more outfield prospects than guaranteed roles, and several young players who need everyday at-bats. An offseason trade feels not only possible but logical. Cincinnati could leverage its prospect depth to land a proven starter or impact bat without sacrificing the long-term structure of the farm system. The key is identifying which young players are part of the future and which could be moved to address immediate needs.
Financially, the Reds are well-positioned. Joey Votto’s contract is off the books, and the organization currently sits far below its budget ceiling. That flexibility gives them room to explore multiple paths—moderate free-agent additions, a bold trade, or a combination of both. With fan expectations rising, ownership faces pressure to convert that payroll space into wins.
Ultimately, the Reds’ offseason success will be measured by whether they build a more complete, resilient roster. The talent is in place. The window is open. Now it’s about execution, smart spending, and making the types of moves that turn promise into a legitimate playoff push.