The Cincinnati Reds had a busy Saturday, adding two outfielders in separate moves as they look to bounce back from a disappointing offseason.
Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall spoke to reporters after the team signed outfielder JJ Bleday to a one-year, $1.4 million contract and traded for Dane Myers from the Miami Marlins in exchange for minor league outfielder Ethan O'Donnell.
"We have got a good group to go in and compete, but you're always looking to get better," Krall said. "We got some more money to be able to use."
The comment about remaining payroll room was noteworthy given how the offseason has gone.
Cincinnati was heavily involved in the Kyle Schwarber sweepstakes, offering the hometown slugger a five-year deal worth around $125 million.
Schwarber, who grew up in Middletown just outside Cincinnati, instead chose to return to the Philadelphia Phillies on a five-year, $150 million contract, and reports indicate the team does not plan to pursue other big-ticket free agents this winter.
Who Are Bleday and Myers?
Bleday, a former fourth overall pick, had a strong 2024 season with the Athletics, where he posted a .762 OPS.
However, his 2025 campaign was a step back as he hit .212 with 14 home runs and 39 RBIs in 98 games before being designated for assignment in November.
"He had a 120 wRC+ in 2024," Krall said. "If he can get back to that, that's an everyday player that has some real add to your offense."
Myers brings a different skill set to Cincinnati. The 29-year-old right-handed hitter batted .235 with six home runs, 31 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases in 106 games with the Marlins last season.
Krall sees value in his defense and his bat against left-handed pitching, noting that Myers has hit .297 with a .360 on-base percentage against southpaws over the past three years.
Looking at the Big Picture
The Reds finished 83-79 last season and made the playoffs before being swept by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Wild Card round.
Entering the offseason, the team's biggest need was adding power behind star shortstop Elly De La Cruz, and fans were hopeful that Schwarber could fill that role.
Instead, Cincinnati has added two outfielders coming off down years who combined for a negative WAR in 2025.
Krall made it clear the team is not done trying to improve, but whether the remaining budget allows for a more impactful addition remains to be seen.
For now, Reds fans are left hoping Bleday and Myers can bounce back and provide the production the lineup needs.