The Cincinnati Reds made a big move this past offseason by bringing Eugenio Suarez back in MLB free agency. Suarez, who is fresh off a 49 home run season, previously played in Cincinnati from 2015-2021. He will know exactly what to expect in reference to playing in Cincinnati.

Suarez’s role will be different, though. He is now the team’s clear veteran leader. He’s also going to be one of the best home run hitters on the team. The Reds will need Suarez to demolish baseballs all season long if they are going to seriously compete in the National League.

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Here are three Suarez predictions for the 2026 season.

Suarez may not crush 49 homers again, but he should be able to hit 40.

The Reds offensive superstar is Elly De La Cruz. He is going to receive most of the attention. Suarez could end up receiving some good pitches to hit as a result. And MLB fans know what Suarez does with good pitches to hit.

Cincinnati’s Great American Ball Park is also a hitter’s field, which is something that will only help Suarez’s power numbers. The only other time Suarez hit 49 home runs in his career was in 2019, when he was with the Reds.

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Look for Suarez to record at least 40 long balls in 2026.

Suarez earned his second career All-Star selection in 2025. He will likely make another push for the All-Star game this year, but there are plenty of star designated hitters in the National League. Shohei Ohtani and Kyle Schwarber are among the DH sluggers who will compete for All-Star spots.

Reds fans will be frustrated. MLB analysts will acknowledge Suarez probably deserves a spot on the roster. He will be one of the biggest snubs after missing out on the 2026 game, however.

Suarez would rather help his team win than earn individual accolades. The veteran’s big season will help Cincinnati not just get to the NL Wild Card round of the postseason, but to the NLDS.

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The Reds are not quite ready to make a World Series run yet, but their overall 2026 season will be considered a success for the most part. Eugenio Suarez will play a crucial role in that success throughout the 2026 MLB season.