“I’m told the Pirates offered the same AAV on Eugenio Suarez ($15 million), were willing to go higher, as well as add another year,” Jason Mackey of the Post-Gazette Sports wrote on X, making it clear that Pittsburgh had been pursuing Suárez for some time, as previously reported.

According to Mackey, Suárez’s decision to ultimately sign with the Reds came down to familiarity with the organization and the potential to secure a bigger contract down the line. “Sounds like his choice came down to a better ballpark fit, familiarity and a chance to cash in next year with a big season.”

Could the 2026 lockout affect Suarez’s future?

It’s still uncertain whether the lockout will actually happen, as has been predicted for several months, but Suarez could be seriously impacted by it. At least his $15 million for the 2026 season is guaranteed, but in situations like this, everything in MLB could come to a halt.

If a lockout occurs in December 2026, the transaction freeze would likely force Suárez to decide on his 2027 option early without knowing the future league rules. A work stoppage could also delay his 2027 paychecks and eat into the season he needs to prove he is still a top-tier slugger.

In any case, the Reds not only have Suarez locked in, a player who already knows the team, but they can also wait patiently if this type of situation occurs in the league. A lockout can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how quickly the owners and the players’ union can find common ground.

“Suarez is likely to see most of his at-bats at DH, also playing some first base and third base. Sal Stewart will have a similar role, while Spencer Steer will play some outfield and be used in more of a utility role,” Mark Feinsand wrote on X.

Suárez had a strong 2025 season, but some MLB teams appeared hesitant due to the slugger’s age. Seattle also chose not to retain him, largely because several prospects needed playing time, and with Suárez occupying a position, that opportunity became limited.

Suárez could once again give the Reds what they need

It’s worth remembering that Suárez’s 2019 season with Cincinnati was one of several standout years he had with the club. That year, he hit 49 home runs with a .271 batting average, producing 87 runs, 156 hits, and 103 RBIs. Three of his five best home-run seasons have come with the Reds.

“The Cincinnati Reds, starving for power, haven’t had a player hit more than 25 HRs in a single season since Eugenio Suarez’s departure after 2021. Suarez had 30 homers alone by the All-Star break last year. He has hit at least 25 homers in seven of his last eight full seasons,” Bob Nightengale wrote.

MLB insider Jeff Passan labeled Suárez the “best bat left on the market” in his report on the $15 million deal he signed with Cincinnati. One of the most appealing aspects of the contract is that Suárez will have a mutual option with the Reds for the 2027 season, depending on how he performs this year.

Traded midseason from the Arizona Diamondbacks back to the Seattle Mariners, a franchise familiar with his profile and production, he reminded the league why his power remains among the most bankable commodities in today’s game.

After Jim Bowden shed light on Eugenio Suárez’s stalled market as 2026 spring training approaches, front offices are now recalibrating rosters and payrolls. The question is no longer whether teams will pursue Suárez, but how aggressive they’re willing to be as the market begins to take shape across MLB.

Suárez’s suitor

According to Jon Heyman, the Mariners remain the most logical fit, largely due to comfort and timing. Despite Seattle’s deep farm system, the organization has been hesitant to commit long-term money, a stance that could align perfectly with Suárez’s market if flexibility becomes a priority. “I’m still going to say the Mariners first, but they have so many great prospects,” Heyman said, emphasizing Seattle’s preference for shorter commitments.

Heyman also pointed to Suárez’s familiarity with the clubhouse and recent production as deciding factors. “If he’s willing to do a one-year deal, they like him… Obviously, close to 50 home runs,” he added.

Which other teams could realistically enter the sweepstakes?

Beyond Seattle, Heyman identified two additional clubs with clear offensive needs. The Pittsburgh Pirates, still searching for middle-of-the-order reliability, were mentioned as a strong secondary option given their lack of proven power depth. “Pirates still need a hitter, so I’m going to put them for number two for Suárez,” Heyman said.

The Cincinnati Reds also surfaced as a familiar and logical destination. Suárez spent six seasons in Cincinnati earlier in his career, and the club’s ongoing search for consistent run production could open the door to a reunion. “I think they still need a little more offense, so I could see Suarez for them as well,” Heyman concluded.

In this case, Jon Heyman of The New York Post announced the arrival of right-hander Pierce Johnson to the Reds’ roster. While details about the transaction are unknown, the fact remains that Francona is adding experience in a key area of the field.

Having most recently played for the Atlanta Braves, Johnson was an NPB All-Star in 2019 while playing for the Hanshin Tigers. His arrival is key, as the pitcher can provide the experience necessary to help the Reds have a strong season.

Johnson’s numbers that caught Francona’s attention

After a reliable 2025 campaign with the Atlanta Braves, Pierce Johnson officially signed with the Cincinnati Reds to bolster the bullpen under manager Terry Francona. Johnson’s performance last year was a primary factor in the move, as he posted a strong 3.05 ERA across 65 appearances.

His ability to miss bats was evident with 59 strikeouts in 59 innings of work, and he maintained a consistent 1.20 WHIP while contributing one save. Francona and the Reds’ front office targeted Johnson’s veteran presence and high-spin curveball to provide late-inning stability as they aim for a deeper playoff run in 2026.

Cincinnati continues to retool its bullpen

Following a successful postseason berth last year, the Cincinnati Reds are aggressively retooling their roster to ensure a return to October in 2026. By pairing newly re-signed closer Emilio Pagan with veteran additions Caleb Ferguson and Pierce Johnson, the club has built a formidable late-inning relief corps alongside Tony Santillan.

This revamped bullpen also gains high-upside depth from former starters Graham Ashcraft and Connor Phillips, perfectly complementing a powerhouse rotation led by Hunter Greene and Andrew Abbott. Under the leadership of Terry Francona, the Reds enter the season with one of the most complete pitching staffs in the National League.

According to MLB insider Francys Romero, the Reds have signed right-handed pitcher Yunior Marte to a minor-league deal. Romero shared on X that “the Reds have agreed to terms with free-agent RHP Yunior Marte on a minor-league contract,” marking the return of the Dominican player to the U.S.

After spending last season with Japan’s Chunichi Dragons, Marte is poised to return stateside, though initially in the minor leagues. This move is strategic as the Reds navigate their options to bolster their roster ahead of the trade deadline.

Marte’s time with the Phillies was challenging, as his performance did not meet expectations during his two seasons. In 2023, he recorded an ERA above 5.00 over 40 games, with a WHIP of 1.627 and a strikeout rate of 8.7 per nine innings. He now has an opportunity to rejuvenate his career in the upcoming season, particularly if he makes it back to the majors.

Marte’s performance in Japan

Despite struggling with the Phillies, Marte seemed to find his form in Japan. He achieved a remarkable 1.95 ERA, which marked a career high in his four years of professional play. Additionally, Marte recorded 25 strikeouts in 35 appearances for the Chunichi Dragons.

Notably, he posted a 0.00 BB/9 in Japanese minor league games, a feat that undoubtedly caught the Reds’ attention, leading to his invitation to their spring training camp.

With Marte’s addition, the Reds are banking on his potential to impact their roster positively. As they strive for success, securing high-caliber talent will be crucial for the Reds to make a significant impact in the 2026 MLB season.

Nick Krall knows that the additions of both JJ Bleday and Dane Myers significantly strengthen the roster, and he was also emphatic in stating that the door remains open for further additions to the Reds.

“Bleday… obviously the defensive stuff has struggled in center field, but he’s been a solid corner,” Krall said via Joey Mistretta. “He’s provided some power. Left-handed hitter that can… compete for an everyday spot. Dane Myers is a guy that we think can come in, he can play some center field… Over the last three years, he’s hit .297 against left-handed pitching. .360 on-base. We really think he can help that group.”

Will new faces arrive in Cincinnati to further strengthen the roster? Krall addressed the situation, saying: “We looked at these deals at potential upside, but it also allows us to continue to try to make this team better.”

Who could join the Reds?

As the Cincinnati Reds transit the 2026 offseason, rumors are swirling about potential additions to bolster their veteran presence and offensive production. A primary name linked to the club is former star Nick Castellanos; with the Phillies recently signing Adolis Garcia, reports suggest Philadelphia is eager to move the veteran outfielder, making a homecoming to Cincinnati a highly discussed possibility.

In addition to a potential trade for Castellanos, the Reds have been mentioned as suitors for proven power hitters who could provide much-needed stability alongside young stars like Elly De La Cruz.

According to insider Robert Murray on his X account, JJ Bleday is joining the Reds for the upcoming season after his most recent stint with the Athletics. The outfielder, who was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2019 draft, arrives in Cincinnati as a free agent.

Bleday joins the Reds to provide experience in a key spot on the roster. This will be his third team in the league, as he previously played for the Miami Marlins, who drafted him back in 2019.

Bleday’s numbers from last season

JJ Bleday is coming off a challenging 2025 campaign with the Athletics, where he posted a .212 batting average, 14 home runs, 39 RBIs, and a .698 OPS across 98 games. Despite the statistical dip from his breakout 2024 season, he remains an intriguing addition for the Cincinnati Reds, who recently signed him to a one-year, $1.4 million deal.

Bleday offers the Reds significant defensive versatility across all three outfield positions and a powerful left-handed bat that could thrive in the hitter-friendly confines of Great American Ball Park.

If he can rediscover the form that saw him hit 20 home runs just a year ago, he will provide vital depth and a high-upside “buy-low” option for a team looking to solidify its postseason rotation.

Reds aim to make a big splash

Under the leadership of Terry Francona, the Cincinnati Reds are positioning themselves to be a serious threat in 2026 by transitioning from a “fringe contender” to a legitimate powerhouse.

Coming off an 83-win campaign and a Wild Card appearance in 2025, Francona’s primary objective is to unlock the full potential of a young, elite rotation featuring Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, specifically by pushing his starters to pitch deeper into games.

By focusing on roster continuity and aggressive internal development, Francona aims to refine the team’s disciplined style and capitalize on their “scrappy” identity to finally snatch the NL Central crown.

According to a report by Empire Sports Media’s Ryan Garcia, the Yankees may have their sights set on a valuable asset from the Reds. Garcia wrote, “There are some intriguing names being discussed, but one that hasn’t gained much popularity is starting pitcher Nick Lodolo from the Cincinnati Reds.“

Lodolo, a left-handed pitcher, is available this offseason and could pique the Yankees’ interest due to his strong performance in his three years in Major League Baseball so far.

With a 3.33 ERA, a 1.079 WHIP, and 156 strikeouts—a career high—Lodolo demonstrated last season that he could be an indispensable component of any MLB roster. These stats highlight his potential as a rising star in the league.

Lodolo’s key strengths as a pitcher

During his first four years with the Reds, Lodolo has proven himself a winner, compiling 24 wins and 22 losses. For three consecutive years, he has managed to win more than he has lost, showcasing his ability to consistently perform across different phases of the season.

With two complete games and a shutout, Lodolo emerged as one of the top performers in the league last season in these metrics. His contribution of 22 home runs, 138 hits, and 60 runs allowed played a significant role in helping the Reds reach the Wild Card series last season.

A potential trade that would benefit both Yankees and Reds

Garcia also mentioned in the report that a viable trade could involve Jasson Dominguez, who might be a good fit for the Reds’ lineup. “FanGraphs projects the Reds to get just 2.2 WAR from their corner outfield in 2026, which is where Dominguez could provide a boost,” Garcia noted.

For the Yankees, acquiring Lodolo, who will be 28 years old in 2026, could be a strategic move to enhance their roster’s talent. A potential trade involving Dominguez and Lodolo could greatly benefit the Yankees in pursuit of their championship aspirations.

While the prospect of playing for the Reds is appealing, financial realities could complicate matters. Rosenthal noted that the Philadelphia Phillies, where Schwarber spent the past four seasons, are expected to make a competitive offer to retain him.

If Schwarber chooses Cincinnati, it likely won’t be due to money alone; other factors—team culture, opportunity, and the chance to play under manager Terry Francona—would have to play a significant role.

Schwarber, who hit a career-high 56 home runs last season, is likely eyeing one last major contract before turning 33 on March 5. Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall has indicated that the team’s payroll will remain roughly the same as in 2025, leaving about $20 million to spend.

“A five-year, $145 million deal is projected for Schwarber, so the numbers would have to be worked out creatively if he were to sign in Cincinnati,” notes The Athletic’s Tim Britton.

Reds’ appeal vs. financial reality

Despite the hurdles, the Reds offer intriguing opportunities. The team improved from 77 to 83 wins last season, marking the first season under Francona. Most of their key rotation pieces, with the exception of Brady Singer, are under club control beyond 2026.

Adding Schwarber to that mix as the designated hitter could provide a massive boost. Over the past four seasons, only Aaron Judge has more home runs than Schwarber, who is tied with Shohei Ohtani at 187. The combination of young talent and Schwarber’s power presents a tantalizing upside for the Reds’ lineup.

Can sentiment overcome free agency realities?

For Schwarber, the decision is far from simple. While a return to Ohio has undeniable personal appeal, free agency is rarely sentimental. Money often carries the day, and the Reds may face challenges assembling a competitive financial package. The possibility of big-market suitors such as the New York Mets or Boston Red Sox entering the mix further complicates the picture.

“We aren’t the finished product, but they competed like crazy and that is what we asked them to do,” Francona said after the game. “Even the last couple nights — we’re kind of getting our a— handed to us — but they keep going. That’s a good trait.”

Despite Francona’s compliments, an analyst on ESPN was heard during the Wild Card series saying that the Reds were tipping their pitches against the Dodgers, a revelation that would be considered a major problem moving forward.

The Postseason Slump is Over

Although Francona and the Reds had a short appearance in this year’s playoffs, the franchise finally ended its postseason drought, having last reached the Wild Card in 2020 (where they were also eliminated by the Braves).

Francona reflected on the abrupt end to the season: “The season doesn’t just wind down. It just comes to a crashing halt. And that’s kind of hard sometimes to make your peace with. I thought our group from day one was a special group. We did not accomplish what we set out to do. That takes away nothing from what me and the coaches feel about those guys.”

Pitchers expressed confidence in the team’s future. Zack Littell highlighted the camaraderie and effort, saying, “This group is awesome. We busted our [butts] to put ourselves in this spot.” Fellow pitcher Emilio Pagán was already looking ahead to next year: “….Hopefully it all comes together next year and I would love to be back and hoisting the World Series trophy. I truly believe that this team can do that.”

After a challenging start in MLB with the Dodgers, he finally unlocked his potential during the critical moments against the Reds, a team that struggled to showcase their talent in this series and is now looking ahead with optimism for the next season.

“The atmosphere was intense, and it was my first time pitching at night. The crowd really helped me focus, and I’m very pleased with the result,” Sasaki told SNY, sharing his insights on the Dodgers’ success on Wednesday.

With Sasaki in excellent form, the Dodgers are in contention to defend their title this year. The team will also rely on Shohei Ohtani, who is set to make his postseason debut as a pitcher, a factor that could significantly alter the course of the season for the Los Angeles franchise.

Sasaki unleashes seven fastballs against the Reds

The Dodgers’ fan base has a lot to celebrate as Sasaki made a triumphant return to the roster on Wednesday night against the Reds, showcasing an impressive array of fastballs that left spectators in awe. Remarkably, the slowest of his pitches clocked in at 99.8 mph, while the rest shattered the 100 mph barrier, underscoring Sasaki’s electric talent on the mound.

Here are the fastballs Sasaki delivered against the Reds:

1. 4-Seam Fastball: 101.4 mph
2. 4-Seam Fastball: 101.1 mph
3. 4-Seam Fastball: 100.7 mph
4. 4-Seam Fastball: 100.5 mph
5. 4-Seam Fastball: 100.5 mph
6. 4-Seam Fastball: 100.3 mph
7. 4-Seam Fastball: 99.8 mph

Dodgers’ fan base rallies behind Sasaki

The excitement among Dodgers fans is palpable as they rally behind the Japanese sensation, who is making waves in the pitching bullpen. During one of Sasaki’s lightning-fast deliveries, the fans erupted in chants, urging him on as he faced down the Reds’ hitters, adding an electrifying atmosphere to the game.

With emotions running high and a strengthening Japanese connection alongside Shohei Ohtani, Sasaki could play a pivotal role in the upcoming challenges, particularly against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies have emerged as formidable contenders for a spot in this year’s World Series, making Sasaki’s performance all the more critical as the Dodgers prepare to face one of their top rivals.