Could Reds Snag Outfielder From Division Rival?

The Cincinnati Reds' defense was a major disappointment this year and was another factor that led to the team suffering multiple blowout losses other than inconsistent hitting and shaky pitching. 

This offseason, president of baseball operations Nick Krall might have a decent opportunity at landing a key addition who could fix a lot of the Reds' problems both offensively and defensively. That player in question would be now-former Chicago Cub Ian Happ.

The 32-year-old left fielder slashed .218/.326/.412 while recording a .738 OPS and driving in 68 runs. He also launched 24 home runs and posted a 2.9 WAR through 156 games this season. While Happ's numbers may not seem that impressive, he did better than J.J. Bleday and Noelvi Marte, a couple of Cincinnati's current outfielders who batted .217 and .189 respectively.

Happ also shined beyond the batter's box with an impressive glove that made him a four-time Gold Glove Award winner. As a result, signing him could give the Reds a chance at remaining in games even when the offense or pitching struggles to do their part.

Besides what he brings as a player, Happ would also be an excellent clubhouse presence given his recent praise for the organization and his ties to Cincinnati stemming from his college ball days at the University of Cincinnati.

"But it is a special place," Happ told Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. "And I think that they have a good group over there on both sides of the baseball, some really good young players. Plus they have Willie Harris and Tito [manager Terry Francona], and that coaching staff is great."

However, Happ has yet to decide on his future now that he is set to enter free agency upon the conclusion of the World Series. Also, his age does spark some concern after the Reds' failed multiyear signings of Mike Moustakas and Jeimer Candelario whom the club were  sold on at the time due to their past hitting and veteran experience.

Still, Happ's background with the city and his solid defense should have Krall's attention as being able to pry him away from a rival like Chicago who just made the playoffs would be huge.

With the Reds having a history of struggling to reach the postseason themselves, it hasn't been common to hear someone speak so highly of them. So bringing in Happ might not only benefit Cincinnati on the field but also when it comes to attracting other free agents.