
The Cincinnati Reds could compete in 2025. Their starting rotation is a strength, but the offense features serious uncertainty. Adding another bat or two -- whether through free agency or trades -- should be a priority for Cincinnati. According to Jon Heyman, the Reds are among the teams who are interested in veteran Miguel Andujar.
In addition to Cincinnati, Heyman mentioned the Texas Rangers, San Diego Padres, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs and the Athletics as possible suitors for the 30-year-old.
In 2018, Andujar hit 27 home runs and finished second in American League Rookie of the Year voting with the New York Yankees. He has been unable to replicate that same level of production since, but he did enjoy a strong '25 campaign with both the Athletics and the Reds.
Overall, Andujar hit .318/.352/.470 across 94 total contests. Andujar added 10 home runs and 17 doubles. Although he only appeared in 34 games with Cincinnati, his impact was undeniable. He slashed .359/.400/.544 in his 110 plate appearances with the Reds.
A reunion certainly makes sense. Andujar found success with the ball club and Cincinnati needs more offense. While there is seemingly competition, the Reds could end up bringing Andujar back.
Andujar would be a tremendous addition. There are other options, though.
Chicago White Sox star Luis Robert Jr. is a trade candidate, and the Reds have been linked to a possible deal. Nothing has yet to come to fruition, but acquiring Robert would instantly improve the Reds' all-around offense.
Philadelphia Phillies outfielder/designated hitter Nick Castellanos has been often discussed as a trade candidate this offseason. The veteran slugger would give Cincinnati's home run hitting prowess a boost.
The chances of Cincinnati landing Eugenio Suarez are slim in all reality. However, the veteran third baseman is still available in free agency. If the Reds wanted to sign him to DH in 2026, giving him a multi-year deal could emerge as a possibility. Suarez features some of the best right-handed power in the game.
One other possibility is New York Mets infielder Brett Baty. While Baty has not been consistently discussed as a trade candidate, the Mets' recent signing of Bo Bichette could lead to a Baty move. New York may desire MLB talent in a trade, however. Nevertheless, bringing in Baty would give the Reds a core player for the future.
Bringing in two more reliable hitters may turn the Reds into a legitimate contender.