The Cincinnati Reds offseason is almost complete.
The Cincinnati Reds enter spring training with a clearer sense of direction after an offseason built on patience and calculated improvement. Coming off a 2025 season that showed flashes but ultimately ended short of expectations, the Reds identified a few core weaknesses and addressed them without sacrificing long-term flexibility. Rather than chasing splashy headlines, Cincinnati leaned into timing, fit and roster balance.
One of the biggest areas of need was right-handed power. The Reds’ lineup often struggled to punish mistakes last season, especially in key moments, and the front office made it a priority to add a proven bat capable of thriving at Great American Ball Park.
Instead of forcing an early signing, Cincinnati waited for the market to settle, a strategy that paid off as spring training approached.
That approach earned praise when Jim Bowden of The Athletic released offseason grades for all 30 MLB teams and gave the Reds a B.
Bowden wrote, “The Reds waited out free agent power hitter Eugenio Suarez until his asking price came down and they closed a short-term deal with him (one-year guaranteed plus a mutual option for 2027) on the first day of February, giving the Reds much needed right-handed power for their lineup.” The move allowed Cincinnati to add impact without overextending financially.
Suarez’s return immediately changes the shape of the Reds’ offense. After hitting 49 home runs last season between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, he brings a level of power few hitters in the division can match.
His ability to drive the ball fits perfectly in Cincinnati, something Bowden emphasized when he noted, “Suarez belted 49 homers last year between the Diamondbacks and Mariners and his swing is perfect for Great American Ball Park.” That familiarity should help him make an immediate impact.
The Reds plan to use Suarez across multiple positions, including designated hitter, first base and third base. That versatility creates opportunities for Sal Stewart while allowing Spencer Steer to continue moving between the infield and outfield. It also gives manager Terry Francona flexibility to optimize matchups throughout the season.
Beyond the lineup, Cincinnati quietly strengthened other areas of the roster. The bullpen and outfield depth were points of concern in 2025, and the Reds made several additions aimed at stabilizing both. While those moves may not generate the same attention as a big signing, they address problems that cost the team wins a year ago.
The Reds also showed a willingness to think bigger, making a competitive push for designated hitter Kyle Schwarber and attempting to extend shortstop Elly De La Cruz, even though neither deal materialized. Those efforts signaled a front office more confident in its competitive window.
Overall, the Reds’ B grade reflects an offseason built on smart timing and targeted upgrades. As spring training arrives, Cincinnati appears better positioned to compete while keeping its long-term foundation intact.