1. Santander’s Power Could Elevate the Reds
If the Reds were to target a key area for improvement, it would undoubtedly be the outfield. Ideally, they need a consistent, everyday player rather than another platoon option like many of their current outfielders.
In terms of impact, Baltimore’s Anthony Santander stands out as a prime candidate. A dream would be landing a top-tier player like Juan Soto, but most likely is out of reach. Santander is a more realistic option with a proven track record. As a switch-hitter with 43 home runs in a pitcher-friendly ballpark, he’s shown his power. Baseball Savant data suggests that, if Santander played in the Reds’ Great American Ball Park (known for being hitter-friendly), he could have tallied up to 50 home runs this season.
Santander’s bat would thrive in Cincinnati, as GABP would likely turn deep fly balls into more homers. His addition could transform the Reds’ lineup, taking them from a team without a single 30-home-run hitter to potentially having the league leader in home runs in the National League.
2. Extend Elly De La Cruz
De La Cruz is the Reds’ franchise cornerstone, with a rare mix of power, speed, and defensive skills. Locking him into a long-term deal now would secure his place in the team’s core for the future. Signing him early allows Cincinnati to create a contract that is financially smart for the team while providing security for De La Cruz. It also helps the Reds avoid rising arbitration and free agency costs, preserving funds for other necessary roster upgrades. As a fan favorite, committing to him long-term would boost fan engagement and reinforce the Reds’ commitment to their young stars. Additionally, securing De La Cruz now prevents future competition for his services as his market value continues to rise.
3. Relief Pitcher: Chris Martin
Martin has announced that the 2025 season will be his last, and he plans to pursue a one-year contract with a team aiming for the playoffs. Given his track record, Martin should easily secure a high-leverage role on a contender. Over the past two seasons with the Red Sox, he posted a stellar 2.16 ERA over 95 2/3 innings. Although his 2024 ERA of 3.45 wasn’t as impressive as his remarkable 1.05 ERA in 2023, he still struck out 27.8% of batters and maintained an incredibly low walk rate of just 1.7%. Known for his elite command, Martin hasn’t had an ERA over 4.00 in the last six years, making him one of the most reliable relievers in the game. Alexis Diaz will remain the closer unless there is competition that is signed.
4. Honorable Mention: Trevor Bauer
I can speak for most Reds fans on this one, EVERYONE of us would love a return of Trevor Bauer. He once was the highest-paid player in MLB with a $45 million contract in 2022, is now expressing a willingness to sign for the league minimum, estimated at around $740,000, as he seeks to return to baseball following his suspension due to domestic violence allegations. Signing Trevor Bauer could provide the Cincinnati Reds with several significant advantages. Bauer is a proven talent, having won the NL Cy Young Award in 2020 and posting a 2.16 ERA across his last two seasons with the Reds before his suspension, making him a potential starter for a rotation. Bauer has, offering a bargain opportunity for a team needing pitching depth. His return could not only improve the team’s performance but also enhance his trade value as he might be flipped for prospects later in the season (Moreover, bringing Bauer back could rekindle fan interest, as he has expressed appreciation for Cincinnati and its fans in the past. However, the Reds would need to navigate the potential backlash from the controversies surrounding Bauer’s past conduct. With the injury history that Lodolo and Williamson have, a signing would make sense.
