The Cincinnati Reds made a splash in free agency on Sunday evening and acquired the power bat that they need for the middle of their lineup. Jeff Passan of ESPN reports that the Reds have signed Eugenio Suarez to a 1-year deal for $15,000,000. C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic is reporting that a mutual option for 2027 at $16,000,000 is also a part of the deal. It’s a reunion that the club is hoping brings back all of the good vibes.
Suarez, the 34-year-old veteran, hit .228/.298/.526 with 49 home runs and 118 RBI in 2025. He had a tale of two seasons, though. He began the year with Arizona and was an All-Star. He hit .248/.320/.576 for the Diamondbacks in 106 games, but they traded him at the deadline to the Seattle Mariners. While he kept hitting home runs with the Mariners – 13 of them in 53 games – he struggled to do much else as he hit just .189 with a .255 on-base percentage.
Seattle has been a place where a lot of guys just don’t hit all that well. There are some theories about it, including that there is something “off” about the batters eye in the ballpark. Suarez has played in 365 games with the Mariners organization over his career and has hit .227/.317/.424. In his seven years with Cincinnati he hit .253/.335/.476 and in his 254 games with Arizona he hit .253/.319/.513.
All of that feels important to note because one of those hitters would help a lot more than the other one would. Cincinnati adding an .800+ OPS hitter to the middle of their order who can hit .250 and show off plenty of pop would probably do wonders for a lineup that struggles to hit for power. But a sub .750 OPS hitter in the middle of their lineup would not move the needle all that much. The Reds and Suarez are both hoping for the .800+ OPS version to step forward in 2026.
The question as to what this does to the lineup on the defensive side of things is now out there, too. Passan’s report notes that the infielder is expected to get most of his at-bats as the designated hitter. Suarez has rarely spent time as a designated hitter in his career. He’s only played first base for six innings in his career. Nearly all of his time is spent at third base, where he has played 150+ games in each of the last three years.
At the trade deadline last season the Reds acquired Ke’Bryan Hayes. He’s not exactly much of a hitter, but he is arguably the best defensive player in baseball. He’s making $7,000,000 in 2026 and is under contract through at least 2029, with a team option for $12,000,000 in 2030 that includes a $6,000,000 buyout.
If Hayes isn’t going to the bench, then it adds some complexity as to how everyone fits into the lineup as you would guess that means more time for Suarez at first base or designated hitter, which then means that spots for Spencer Steer and Sal Stewart are up in the air as to where they play or how often they play, and if it’s where, that means that trickles down to someone else, too.
When the move becomes official we’ll probably get to hear from president of baseball operations Nick Krall or general manager Brad Meador. That would likely shed some light on the situation a bit more.
Steer to LF? He’s not very good there. Hopefully we can get Arizona Geno’s numbers, and he should be DH’ing most days.
Steer EVERYWHERE hopefully. He’s ideally suited for the UT role.
I Love You Jiim Day!! Good vibes ?
I Love You Jiim Day!! Good vibes ?
They needed a bat and got one. But which Geno will they get?
Rather move Stewart to left; Steer is a GG caliber first baseman. Stewart with a full spring training learning arguably the least important defensive position solves some difficult questions.
This is a move that frankly surprises me.
On both Eugenio’s and the team’s respective parts. I have to believe Eugenio made financial concessions— on years and salary— and most surprisingly, the Reds did also.
But it’s a great addition and just gives hope to me that the season will be more fun!
I don’t just have hope this really moves the needle for me. Elly gets protection in the lineup, and I too am wondering if Stewart moves to the OF. Would be interesting especially since supposedly he has lost weight.
The season should be fun.
Welcome back, Geno. Here’s to hoping you find your vibe again, and the Reds can figure out how to effectively juggle the pieces. We shall see.
Now they need to pull off a trade, preferably moving Singer for an everyday OFer. Punch it up with Dunn, Steer, anyone in Louisville unlikely to make it big in the majors.
I’ve actually agreed with a lot of your offseason assessment of the Reds, but this is one case I strongly disagree. The Reds should not trade any of their projected starters.
Yes, I’m all for trading for an OFer, but trade someone in the minors versus taking away the only strength the Reds have going into 2026.
All depends on who and how much. Singer is an FA after this season. I don’t keep up with the nuances of QOs etc, but a QO to Singer is a non-starter. So capture value while you can. Same with Stephenson. At his age, make a deal or gamble on a big season. I’m not optimistic but. Hope it works out.
I get the logic, but trading Singer and Stephenson only makes sense if we don’t plan to compete in 2026. Call me crazy (many have), but I think the Reds have a chance this year with their rotation IF a few things go right on the offensive side.
Trading Stephenson is waving the white flag for 2026.
“Trading Stephenson is waving the white flag for 2026.”
Yep. There just aren’t many if any replacements.
Completely agree with LDS regarding Singer, both because of his pay, but also because we have a couple kids that are most likely BETTER than Singer, and we’d get a legitimate bat in the outfield. This is a complete WIN / WIN. Moving Stephenson? Well, I think that would be foolish. We need bats, and losing him sticks us with a terrible hitter at catcher and 3rd base. No thanks.
I probably agree with LDS more than it seems just out of optimism, but the realist here completely understands this point – the strength now is depth in pitching. The weakness is the power hitting OFer, and as the younger players roll into free agency, starting with TySteve.
The big deal they could make likely involves Lodolo, 0r perhaps another starter, and after that certainly Singer, though the return there is limited by the single year. Adding TySteve enhances any deal, but leaves a gap in the lineup.
Still if they could get the OFer AND a close-to-MLB prospect hitting catcher they should do so. It would be the all-in move.
If it meant being the key to getting a bonafide game changing LF, then I would be open to trading a ML SP. Anything short of that would be a non starter. If we could trade Lodolo and a couple prospects for someone like Jarren Duran or someone of that stature, I’d do it and bank on Lowder/Petty/Aguiar/Franco/Acuna to fill that void.
Personally, I think all the young guys received bad financial advice. Stephenson and the Reds weren’t that far apart and it was insane to not close that gap. He needs a big year for the Reds to even consider a QO. EDLC and McLain both threw away guaranteed lifetime security for a chance at bigger numbers down the road. And as McLain learned, that doesn’t always work out. If he don’t bounce back this year, he becomes the next India or worse Senzel. EDLC? Boras is not his friend. I have a lot more respect for Greene, Witt, et al, that made workable deal. They are set. Oh, well they all have more money than most of their fans . So it goes.
“Personally, I think all the young guys received bad financial advice.”
We’ve agreed on this before and still do.
I’m not sure everyone here is appreciating the value that Singer brings to this team. He led our staff in almost every major category or was second. Innings pitched, starts, quality starts, strike outs, era. In many of these categories he was in the top 35 in MLB. That puts him in the upper echelon of #2 pitchers in all of baseball last year! As a fan do I think he has the best stuff on the staff? No, but he has demonstrated an ability to get outs and pitch every 5th day. I’m shocked he’s the guy everyone wants to get rid of….
“I’m not sure everyone here is appreciating the value that Singer brings to this team”
I like Singer. I think he brings a lot to the table. Some disagree I know but the India for Singer trade was the best trade Krall has made in my view. It was a “no brainer” to me and a steal.
Do not trade Singer unless the Reds are out of contention at the deadline. Possibly trade him at the deadline if another arm can step in though. Do not trade Stephenson, look for a trade partner for KBH.
Fantastic glove but cannot hit. We need hitters.
Yep, gonna join the group that would say NO to a Singer trade — at least until there is evidence the innings can be filled by somebody who isn’t Jose Franco. Losing Singer to FA at the end of the year is a ho-hum outcome. By then, Lowder/Williamson/Petty will prove what they are worth.
I can, however, get behind a deal that sends KBH elsewhere, and letting Sally and Suarez play 3B until Sal has a year under his belt.
+1000!!
JCU, you are spot on!
I agree, you can never have enough pitching. People get hurt, etc.
Glad to see the Reds get what should be a good power bat, even if the strikeout rate is going to cause some heartburn.
Yup. Agree. Keep Singer
The only way I trade Singer at this point is if we are getting an everyday starting Outfielder with good numbers.
Very good at complaining.
Very weak at proposing trades.
India brought Singer.
Singer isn’t going to bring an everyday outfielder much better than “Bleday” even if you lightly tap it up with someone like Dunn or any “unlikely” AAA player.
Imaginary trades aren’t real.
Stick with complaining.
Financial realism on a cheap team isn’t complaining. It’s reality. If the Reds can’t make a deal with Singer and Stephenson, they are both gone at the end of the year. Neither is likely to be offered a QO. They learned that lesson with Martinez. So capture what value you can before losing them both. As for imaginary trades? Not my job or yours to come up with the trades. It’s on Krall and company. Signing Suarez was a decent move, but the team needs more. Hope is not a strategy. At least not a successful one. If you disagree, go buy a stack of lottery tickets.
@LDS
Trading Singer or Stephenson, let alone both, would definitely introduce hope as a strategy.
Singer, Littel, and Martinez started 68 games. What pitchers are making those 68 starts in ’26? What catcher is picking up Stephenson’s starts?
Reds just filled a big hole and you want to create bigger ones.
It seems to go against everything you complain against here every day.
Singer has value. As part of the right package, he could help return a decent bat. Stephenson thus far has been poorly managed. Krall & Company should be locking him in for a couple of years and probably should have done so earlier. If they can’t close that deal by the trade deadline, they have a big problem. Singer is walking regardless and the Reds have the pitching depth to deal with that, though some are unproven. The reality is that it’s likely neither of them will be with the Reds next year. So, get something for them. If the Reds are playoff bound or leading the division at the deadline, fine hold on to them. Even with Geno, the Reds are likely the 3rd place team. A better shot at the WC no doubt, but still a third place team – unless everything magically breaks their way, e.g., Bleday, McLain, EDLC, and Stephenson bounce back, Marte proves he the RF of the future, Stewart shows that his 58 PAs weren’t a fluke, etc. Even with Singer and Stephenson, that’s a lot of hope.
Before you seemed to imply the Reds should trade them now.
But now it seems you are saying trade them at the deadline if the Reds are out of contention. On that we agree.
If … “unless everything magically breaks their way, e.g., Bleday, McLain, EDLC, and Stephenson bounce back, Marte proves he the RF of the future, Stewart shows that his 58 PAs weren’t a fluke, etc.” is still an issue even if you trade Singer for a bona fide OF.
I get the logic, trade a MLB-proven starter from our stable for a MLB-proven offensive OFer (that doesn’t cost $20-$30 M/yr ) and preferably controllable for a couple + years…but it doesn’t seem like that trade exists.
Singer won 14 games last year and made almost all of his starts. You think that brings back a Bleday level player? If you are going to try to insult someone’s take, try to have a better one.
@Justin
One year ago Singer had 2 years of control, was cheaper, and had just as good a year in ’24 that he had in ’25. That year the Royals sat on the Reds trade offer of Jonathan India for a couple months, and finally took it after presumably not finding a better offer.
What makes you think he has more value now than a Jonathon India type plyer with just one year of control remaining and being more expensive (over $12M) than he had the prior year?
Singer isn’t bringing anything back except prospects and salary relief. Only way we trade him is if Lowder looks dominant in Louisville and a contender has an injury and desperately needs a starter. Or if we tank this season and are out of it at the trade deadline.
Completely agree LDS. Duran from Redbox for Singer and probably a minnow league pitcher would possibly get it done. There is still Castellanos that will be unloaded before ST but he can’t play defense.
There is no chance that the red sox would let him go for Singer. For one, Singer may not even be much of an upgrade as he would be battling Oviedo for the 5th starter spot. Also, they are clearly seeking a significant return for a guy that has put up 13.4 WAR in the last two seasons and is under team control for 3 more years.
Lodolo, Tyson Lewis, and Hector Rodriguez probably doesn’t get Duran. You think Singer and Carlos Jorge is getting it done? GTFOH
I am here to eat crow and to thank ownership for finally doing something. You can’t compete if you don’t try, this is trying and all that I ask for. I will now make the effort to go to a couple of games. Go Reds!!
Dude you don’t have to eat crow and neither does any other long-suffering yet loyal Reds fan who has had to endure the last 20 years with this regime!
They more than owed us fans a year of hope with a bona-fide slugger. And they owe us even more for all the years these pathetic owners have sat on their hands and cried poor.
I am glad we got Suarez and I credit him for taking a cheaper deal than he might have had elsewhere. He has his flaws but he is going to pop out a lot of HRs this next year and that will give hope a chance.
Here’s to a much funner season!
I get that response too. By eating crow, I meant that I really didn’t think that tgey would address the blatantly, obvious need.
I am happy they made this move. I am going to as many games as I physically can now
If KBH can’t hit his weight the Reds need to reduce his playing time in 2026.
KBH needs to play every day at third. Elly will up his defensive game by playing next to him on a regular basis.
I’m going to reply to your comment below right here. I get the disdain–he didn’t meet what many of us thought was the Reds’ primary need when he was acquired, he’s under contract for four more seasons, and he reportedly has chronic back issues. These are legit concerns.
That said, I accept that the Reds believe their best path to success, given their constraints, is to field a team built around defense and pitching. Hayes has been elite defensively. Many can’t fathom that a 3B can be among the most valuable defensive players in the game. Many don’t like the Reds’ strategy. I get it, but I expect Hayes to start the vast majority of games at 3B. I don’t think the Reds are fretting about it, and they are probably right that run prevention is the most cost-effective way to build a competitive team.
BK – Two of your three legit concerns were he’s signed for four more years and he has chronic back problems. Being signed for four more years could be a benefit just as much as a concern (and it’s not some budget busting AAV).
And his chronic back problems had him playing in 152 games in 2025 (including playing in 52 of the 53 games for the Reds since the trade). As someone with chronic back problems, that is the epitome of health.
And as someone below points out, his career BA is .253 (a slightly above average BA).
I agree that the Reds saw an improvement in defense as the most economical way to improve the team.
I wish that more Reds fans could give him the chance to prove himself before condemning him.
I agree. I didn’t/don’t like the KBH trade, but again, I get why they did it, and I’m pulling hard for him.
I’ll add, he passed his first test with me–he hit better with the Reds than he did with the Pirates and helped the Reds reach the playoffs. I was happy that he proved me overly skeptical during his first go with us!
His career BA is over .250. Considerably more than his weight.
I do not get the utter disdain that some Reds fans have for Hayes. I’m looking forward to what he can bring at the plate. We all know he will give us elite defense.
Very few fans value defense, or even consider it at all in evaluation.
I remember one person commented a month or so ago that they’d much rather have a 20 HR, 80 RBI guy at 3B than Hayes, irregardless of defense.
I explained there were only 3 such players in MLB last year. But, Spencer Steer was a 20/80 guy last year so should we just move him to 3B instead of Hayes?
Haye’s BA is well below .250 over the last 2 years and that includes GABP which inflates numbers. His OPS+ is 64 in those years. The problem with Hayes is if you play him at third then that pushed Steer to RF and you go from Steer being a ++Defender to a -Defender which essentially nullifies Hayes ++D at third. If you keep Steer at 1B then that means Sal doesn’t play. So now you have traded Bleday’s bat for Sal’s which is also a negative.
No one hates Hayes. He is a GREAT defender but his bat is a weakness and in this lineup that doesn’t fit great on a team that is sorely lacking hitting and power.
Does no one remember that Steer could barely throw a ball last year coming off the shoulder injury and that his arm wasn’t great even before that? He’s playing zero RF and LF might be a stretch.
@Duke
In 2024 Steer was well above average in LF arm, rating 18 out of 69 in LF arm strength. We don’t know what the status of his shoulder is, currently. But we do know he did not have surgery. So it must not be that bad. I’m not sure how you can conclude his shoulder or arm strength prevents him from playing LF in 2026.
https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/leaderboard/arm-strength?type=player&year=2024&minThrows=50&pos=arm_lf&team=&sortColumn=arm_overall&sortDirection=desc
Re: “We don’t know what the status of his shoulder is, currently. ”
Both Sheldon and Goldsmith quoted Francona from Redsfest, “Steer is healthy.”
Steer played outfield last season. I imagine that he would have played more LF if his 1B defense wasn’t superior and if Lux were not on the team last season. There are no reports of a lingering shoulder issue. The Reds appear to have him penciled in as the LF right now.
Sorry I meant LF for Steer…
I don’t have much to back this up but I think KBH could produce this.
Avg. .240
HR 8
RBI 60 ish
OBP .305
If he could do this or slightly better, I feel like he is worth having at the hot corner.
Seems as if Steer may become odd man out. Wish there was a way to trade Hayes and Singer as a package for a left fielder.
Here’s to hoping it works out well. Personally I’m not a fan of a guy with an OBP less than .300 who strikes out 196 times (4th in the majors). If somehow his power starts to fail he won’t bring any other asset. The best part is if he does flop it will only be for one year and there won’t be a possible multi year disaster. He could also be a trade asset at the deadline to improve the team even further.
“Here’s to hoping it works out well.”
Sure you are. This was a one year deal with little downside. Just admit it. Krall & Co. made a positive signing today.
“Sure you are”
That’s right I am. I’m a Reds fan and always hoping for the best. Winning cures everything.
Then just admit Krall made a good solid move today.
Can you do it?
I’ll say better that solid move as long as it doesn’t delay Sal getting his shot.
But if this reduces Hayes’ plate appearances, then this was a fantastic signing.
A lot of this depends on Tito.
“Then just admit Krall made a good solid move today.”
Look. I hope it turns out well. For the record I was not one of the people who wanted to sign Suarez as many were. As I said above even if it turns out bad it will only be for one year so you are correct in that there is much less risk than other signings such as Moose, Candy, Akiyama etc. or trading for Hayes and being locked in to him for several years so in that sense Krall did a much better job. I don’t hate Krall nor am I even anti Krall period. I am “anti losing” though. I’d much rather him succeed and the Reds win than to see him fail and the Reds lose. Disagreeing is not synonymous with hating. Far from it.
All I asked was for a statement saying Krall made a good solid move. That’s all. You gave me 128 words avoiding the handful I was asking for, instead re-litigating past trades and grudingly saying this move was not as bad.
All I’m asking is that commenters be fair and honest while leaving agendas behind. That seems hard to come by, even today when it should be.
I’ll weigh in and say this was a good deal.
One year for Candelario $$ and mutual option.
I’d say that was a good deal.
Get the Geno Suave bobbleheads into production.
“All I asked was for a statement saying Krall made a good solid move”
Although as I said I was not a fan of signing Suarez it does have some potential to help a great deal with much less risk if it fails as previous trades and signings. It was a very good improvement. I hope my reservations turn out well and my gut feeling is incorrect. This is the most honest statement I can make.
Considering the other option was likely doing nothing, then my biggest worry about this signing is if they take away too many at bats from Stewart and Steer. Steer should be playing 6 of every 7 games, and Stewart should be playing every day he is healthy.
Richard why are you being so combative? Who are you to demand someone admit to something? It’s very aggressive behavior and for no reason. Take a chill pill man.
“Steer should be playing 6 of every 7 games, and Stewart should be playing every day he is healthy.”
It would seem that now Krall will be looking to shed some money from the payroll. I’d much rather that be Hayes than Singer/Stephenson etc. If he can somehow pull that off then it will be a VERY GOOD MOVE and he will get my endorsement 100% (not that he’s looking for it). No offense to those who like Hayes.
I don’t see a market for Hayes honestly, we were the suckers who took on that contract, going to be hard to find another one.
” don’t see a market for Hayes honestly, we were the suckers who took on that contract, going to be hard to find another one.”
THAT’S… the problem. 🙂
Richard – What’s with you getting after Melvin? Demanding someone to agree with your opinion is ridiculous. And Melvin always maintains a very high level of decorum on here. He might be my favorite commenter. And I value your comments as well. But take it easy my friend.
“And Melvin always maintains a very high level of decorum on here. He might be my favorite commenter”
Thank you. There’ll be a little something extra in your Christmas envelope next year. 😉 😀
What’s up with taking Melvin to task in front if everyone on the site, Richard? Back off, will ya?
I agree with you Melvin 100%. Here’s hoping that the power offsets the strikeouts. I hate unproductive outs and strikeouts are the worst kind of this, as they provide absolutely nothing for the team. In fact, they hurt the team and the Reds already have several players who strikeout way too many times.
All that being said Geno was one of my favorite players when he was here and I certainly hope he can reign in what could become a major negative for the Reds.
Lastly, Richard, you need to show some class and not browbeat someone just because they don’t agree with your opinion.
Excited about this move. Great clubhouse guy, gives the team some character and will hopefully hit a lot of bombs. I hope it does not take away AB’s from Stewart. He deserves a long leash this year to show what he can do. I agree with LDS, a trade for a LFer is still needed. But maybe Steer and JJ are the answer there.
Steer was in the running for Gold Glove at 1st. Also after overcoming an injury from the off-season last year he hit pretty well and drives in a fair share of runs.
I’d hate to seem him moved off 1b for his defense though I definitely want to see Stewart in the lineup as much as possible assuming he’s ready for the grind. And Stewart is hopefully the future so no doubt Steer will play LF, 2B, so Stewart plays more and more 1B.
There’s good reason to hope for Reds fans this year and that’s really nice for a change.
SHOCKED quite honestly. Even if the strikeout rate is awful and the on base percentage bad you still have to respect the slugging. if he can pop 45 at DH this contract will be a win…… and if the team lays an egg you can still flip a veteran like this at the trade deadline.
This feels like ownership convinced themselves (again) a fan favorite like Geno will put butts in the seats. If this is a winning team they will take it as confirmation bias *eyeroll*
“This feels like ownership convinced themselves (again) a fan favorite like Geno will put butts in the seats.”
My personal opinion, I doubt this was factored in at all. The Reds have one of the best projected rotations in baseball. It’s clear offense/power was our biggest weakness. Krall (for once) did his job and addressed a weakness. Suarez isn’t perfect, but I hope this pays off.
The deal may sell a few jerseys and inspire a bobblehead.
“The deal may sell a few jerseys and inspire a bobblehead.”
hahaha You think Suarez is posing for a bobblehead already? 🙂
Agree. Krall has been hamstrung all offseason, really his whole tenure with the Reds. This was a stroke of brilliance move. Krall waited, waited, and convinced Suarez the 2nd biggest power hitter on the market this offseason to come to Cincy for ONE year, and for WELL BELOW market dollars. This was a stroke of brilliance by Krall. Hats off!
Wow, nice move Reds! I’m kind of stunned Suarez is only getting 15 million for 2026, with a option of 16 million for 2027. I thought he’d receive at least a 2 years at 46 million type of deal.
It seems that a lot of teams feel he is going to be declining with such low offers. I’ll be honest, I think Suarez could be in decline too, and he strikes out so much, at times he can almost be a whole in the lineup. I still think the Reds need more than just Suarez to make the Offense better.
But with that being said, his power is definitely welcome, and not to mention he is a very likeable individual from all I’ve seen, and has been in the playoffs several times now on some pretty good teams. I think that veteran leadership part is exciting and needed with the Reds. I like this move. If he’s not good, the Reds hadn’t made a huge financial commitment. If he’s good, he’s the type of player and personality that can help in a playoff race down the stretch, as well as beloved by most fans already.
I agree, I thought it would take more to get Suarez. I’m not sure what his projected contract was, but I feel like the Reds got a solid deal without dumpster diving (for a change).
Apparently, the Pirates were also pursuing Geno, and actually offered him more money. Geno chose to play in Cincinnati instead, because, get this, he liked it here before.
For $15 Million, they get a player that will almost likely put up similar numbers to Kyle Schwarber, although Geno is RH (obviously) and Kyle is LH (well, obviously there, too!).
Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Invest wisely.
Schwarber’s OBP last year was .365, quite dissimilar to Geno’s. I hope some of the guys batting ahead of him get on base with great frequency so that his one homer every three or four games actually matters.
I know I sound like a broken record, but the Hayes trade was just terrible.
I’m 100% on board with this trade as long as it doesn’t decrease Sal Stewart’s early season playing time. I think it’s time for him to get the chance to prove himself.
Now if this trade pushes Hayes to a bench role and late inning defensive replacement (where he belongs), I’ll be beyond excited. I just don’t think Tito will do that.
Totally agree. Tito prefers defense and Hayes and Steer are Gold Glove level defenders. Suarez is going to be the full time DH. Sal Stewart at bats are going to be greatly reduced unless injuries occur to Hayes, Steer, and Suarez.
Yes, Stewart definitely needs to get lots of PT this year so he can show that he’s for real. 1b, lf, 3b, dh…
“Now if this trade pushes Hayes to a bench role and late inning defensive replacement (where he belongs), I’ll be beyond excited. I just don’t think Tito will do that.”
I doubt Krall will let him. He’s paying Hayes too much money. Something has to give somewhere though. Stewart will force his way into the lineup somehow. Remember Hayes has only played 3B in the majors.
“I doubt Krall will let him. He’s paying Hayes too much money.”
Or, Krall and Francona prefer playing the best defensive team possible. I was (am) not fond of the Hayes’ acquisition, but 3B defense was terrible in 2024 and in 2025 before Hayes came over–frankly, among the worst in all of MLB (three-way tie for #27, just one team was worse; notice which team was first [Pirates] and by how much [38 percent better than the Reds]):
https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/leaderboard/fielding-run-value?dateEnd=2025-07-31&gameType=Regular&seasonStart=2024&seasonEnd=2025&type=fielding-team&position=5&minInnings=q&minResults=1
“Remember Hayes has only played 3B in the majors.”
I’m not sure what you’re getting at here. If he’s the best defensive 3B in MLB, why would we want the Reds to consider moving him to another position if he were in the lineup?
Hallelujah, there’s new joy in Mudville!
(Looking forward to spring training in the dez.)
My worry is this takes at bats away from Stewart, as management puts too much weight on Steer being a gold glove finalist at first.
I see three possibilities from the results of this signing:
1) Stewart loses at bats – ugh
2) Steer returns to super utility and Sal is main 1B – solid signing
3) Hayes becomes bench player and part time start and late inning defensive replacement – best signing the Reds have made in years
(4) Steer plays LF–Steer was a poor 1B in his first go. He’s a good athlete. I think he’ll improve in LF if given steady playing time.
That said, injuries and performance will almost assuredly resolve what some are perceiving as a bit of a logjam. Personally, I would love option #2 to be the case.
4) I still think there is a world where Stewart take 2B and McClain is shopped. Which I would hate because McClain is my favorite Red and you would be selling low. Still IMO McClain is worth more as an MLB SS than a 2B.
McLain is also Francona’s favorite 2B because of his defense. The Reds are prioritizing defense. I would be shocked if McLain or Hayes are traded.
If Stewart hits, he’ll play. Book it.
Can’t disagree with that. Where he plays…who knows?
@Richard +100K
If Stewart loses at bats (and with it lowering his rookie of the year odds) then I’m going to be livid with the coaching staff. He’s you best chance at a next star type of player, and he’s shown he’s ready.
Correct me if I’m miss reading the stats, but it looks like Suarez had significant reverse splits last year. Maybe there some platoon possibilities.
They are not going to platoon their new $15 mil signing.
This move puts stephenson behind the plate a lot more in 2026. Our only weak spot is LF right now.
Maybe, maybe not. There are alternatives in Left Field in that are to be considered.
Benson, Bleday and Myers could alternate there. Maybe none of them knock your socks off, but they might do alright. Or maybe Rece Hinds makes the team out of ST.
This puts a lot more into the mix, depending on exactly what role Geno plays; 3rd baseman or DH. Don’t see him as a serious alternative at 1B.
Just wonder how Geno is going to work out with batting coach, Chris Valaika. 🙂
Wonder if Chris is going to have him go to right field more? 🙂
I trust none of those guys in LF. Perhaps we can get andujar on the cheap
Ronnie, Andujar is not a good defensive player in LF (or anywhere) he’s not even close to average. He’s a bat first player.
Steer can platoon with Stewart at 1st
Also Steer in left when needed
I like this move a lot. Sal at 1B and Steer as either LF or utility until an inevitable injury happens. I will not like this move if there is another shoe that drops and TySteve,Steer, or Singer get moved to free up money.
Other fans seem to suggest moving Singer. I get it that this is his last year on a contract here but he made 30 starts last year and was much better than I expected. If he’s moved in a trade, I hope they package him with prospects and or a couple of our LFers to get something very worthwhile.
Singer isn’t bringing back what we need for the big club, he isn’t going anywhere unless this season tanks and we trade him at the deadline.
The Duke is right.
People say that the Reds will “get nothing” for a player like Singer headed into his free agent year. That’s incorrect. The Reds will get Singer’s production for 2026.
Singer was very strong in his last 12 starts of 2025. The Reds went 8-4 in those games, and Singer struck out 70 in 67.2 IP and gave up 50 hits, with an ERA of 2.81 and a FIP of 3.57. He was also strong for the season at GABP, with a 3.29 ERA and a 1.107 WHIP, while making 32 starts, which was tied for 9th in MLB.
If he replicates that this year, or even comes close to it, his production will easily outstrip his paycheck.
Why anyone would give up that level of production and replace it with Chase Petty or worse is beyond me.
I trade Lodolo before I trade Singer
It will all work out. Someone will end up hurt.
They always do.
This seems like a very good signing and I’ll give Krall credit for that. It’s another square peg/round hole move for the Reds, but it’s something. It’s at a discount(of course). He’s a great teammate. It keeps him out of a division rival’s lineup. And it’s not tied to a long term commitment. I like it.
I like the signing for two reasons. #1 good addition to Reds lineup. #2 good subtraction from Pirates lineup (his other rumored destination).
Unbelievable! Suarez for 15 million after he just hit 49 home runs for the secpnd time in his career. Nick Krail deserves great appreciation for this one. If this is true, Krall just has permanently proven he is a good GM despite all the criticism he has received from people like myself. This is a great get for the Reds! They have a legitimate chance of going deep in the playoffs if Suarez stays healthy. Go Reds!!!
Just hope everyone knows what we’re getting. Geno’s approach isn’t for purists but it is effective. if you watched the playoffs he was largely a guess hitter trying to pop home runs every bat. His exit velocities suggest he’s not just hunting fast balls though. That’s one silver lining–others would be his BABIP being 60 points below his career norm, and his strikeout rate staying largely in line with the last five seasons. The only red flag I can see is a declining walk rate.
It would seem there is a contradiction in this signing and Tito’s hitting philosophy. We’ll see how it works out.
Not a fan of this move. Suarez faded badly down the stretch last year after the trade and started to look like the early season was the outlier given the few years prior to that. He’s also position-limited in areas where the Reds’ roster is the strongest already.
Look at the bright side. It’s a relatively cheap experiment to determine whether he can put balls over the wall.
He did fade, but Doug notes a significant correlation to his offensive performance in Seattle and that fade. And if you ‘fade’ into 49 homers, then I’ll take the hot streak to go with the regression!
He was not nearly as productive in Seattle, but on the other hand he had a tremendous ALCS, slashing .308/.379/.577, with 2 HRs, including a huge grand slam off Seranthony Dominguez in Game 5 that turned a 2-2 game into a 6-2 win. He also hit 13 HRs in 53 games with Seattle.
As to his reverse platoon splits in 2025, Suarez had an BABIP against LHP last season of an almost impossible .141. However, he had 13 HRs in 189 PAs against LHP, so it seems he just had bad luck on his balls in play off lefties. He had pretty much equal platoon splits in 2024, and his career OPS is higher against LHP than RHP.
I was not in favor of signing Suarez to a deal of 4 years, but this is an excellent contract for the Reds. That doesn’t mean it’s a guaranteed success, but it’s worth the risk.
One thing I love about this…it increases the infield depth even though he will primarily DH. I know Suarez isn’t the fielder that will dazzle ala Hayes, yet I’m comfortable with him at 1st or 3rd. It is going to be interesting to see how Sal Stewart fields this spring and where they play him. Same for Spencer Steer. I think infield playing time will be much more evenly distributed between Suarez, Steer, Hayes, McLain, De La Cruz, and Stewart. That’s 6…Two catchers…that’s 8… Benson, Bleday, Friedl, Myers and Marte…that’s 13. It would be interesting to see Callihan push himself into contention.
I think you summed it up very well KP. Suarez won’t embarrass himself at third or first. This definitely seems like steer is going to utility player – which is good for the team.
Suarez should be allowed to play anywhere he wants. Throw out the Red carpet for him.
I just do not get the Hayes hate. He is a lifetime .253 hitter. Not a lot of power, but he did hit 15 homers in ’23. Put up conssecutive WAR years of 3.9 and 4.5 in ’22 and ’23. And he is generally regarded as the best defensive third baseman in the majors. Can we just give the guy a friggin’ chance? He is NOT a bench player.
Agreed Asheville. The best third baseman in the league. Reds fans forget what gold glove defense is and what it can do for a pitching staff. And now we can score 50 more runs for that talented pitching staff. Maybe even win some extra inning games for once.
Not close to the best third basemen in the league. Maybe the best defensive third basemen, if that’s what you meant.
The best third basement in the league had an OPS well above .800. Hayes’ was below .600, for the 2nd straight year.
Batting average is almost meaningless in a vacuum all by itself.
WAR stats would be better if more recent. It’s 2026.
Yes, anyone that has an OPS of under .600 for two straight years should be a bench player, no matter how good they are on defense.
Breaking News!! The Reds, to the delight of a number of their fans, are leaving MLB and joining the new Home Run Derby League! The Castellinis, in a news release, pointed out the money that would be saved by jettisoning the entire pitching staff. all of the position players who don’t primarily hit home runs and most of the coaches and the entire analytics department. “Pitching machines are cheaper than pitchers,” Phillip Castellini said.
Well played, @Greenmtred
Generally speaking, fans want a Rolen type guy at 3rd. Good D and jack homers?
Not many of those around, though.
I want to like the deal. And a one year deal is tough to not like. But the fall off with Seattle and the fact that it seems for him to be of any value he will have to hit 30 plus home runs still leaves me a bit uneasy. I will take him over Hayes at third base but that isn’t a tough choice for me. Here’s to hoping for the best outcome because the lineup could use a real power threat behind Friedl and De La Cruz. And maybe Sal Stewart who I would bat between those two.
Great signing by the reds! I can’t believe they pulled it off.
I love it!!! Balls should be flying out of GABP this year!!!
Plenty of at bats to go around. Guys can play different positions to give everybody days off and you can’t go into the season thinking Hayes is going to play alot. His back could go out anytime and I like the depth. People complaining about Steer in left but we all put up with Lux out there and Hays wasn’t the greatest. I like it.
We’ve had worse LF than Steer over the years on several occasions. Not all of them had the offensive numbers that Steer has had since coming to the majors. If he plays there on a regular basis he will get better.
https://www.mlb.com/player/spencer-steer-668715
While some are worried needlessly about the fit, the Geno signing provides not only more power, but also depth. And done without trading pitching, which is paramount. The Reds got to the playoffs almost exclusively because of their pitching. Holding on to that while making the offense incrementally better is big for a team that’s not going to spend big. Injuries will happen. Today they added a player who gives them more flexibility around the diamond.
Can’t disagree with any of this.
Our weakness was offense/power. We added that without trading anything away and we didn’t mortgage the future. The more I think about it, great signing.
Indeed
Well said! Depth is a good thing.
Lets call it what it is A win for our Redlegs Geno is a great addition And a great team guy Now Another shoe is gonna drop Somebody maybe two somebodys are headin out the door cause Sal is not gonna set and neither is Steer Heres hoping one of the is kbh Even if we have to send 3.5 million with him
In theory there is room for all of them…
1B – Stewart
3B – Hayes
LF – Steer
DH – Suarez
And maybe Geno gets spot starts at 1B and 3B as needed…
But yes, Sal Stewart deserves to play every day. He can hit, and he’s earned it.
I appreciate the owners today, too. Thank you owners for what you have done for Cincinnati Reds fans today! I know this is a small market. You have gone the extra mile for us.
I’m willing to give Krall some credit today, but I’m not willing to go as far and giving thanks to the owners.
This was the bare minimum IMO. Anything above this, sure I’ll give them some credit.
Yep. The owners have a lot of work to do get my thanks. Today was a morsel. A welcome one, but still a morsel.
Excellent use of sarcasm
I have to begin to wonder about Elly. The Reds have offered him the best contract they have ever offered a player. I don’t see it getting any better in the future.Is it time to trade him for the best possible package of major league ready and prospect talent. The prognosticators say the Reds strength is their starting pitching, so what does better defense at shortstop in the person of Arroyo do for that pitching?
Absolutely not. We have one of the most exciting players locked up for a “reasonable” price the next few years, along with a fantastic core of starting pitching.
Keep this group together and continue to try and add to it. We can trade him down the road if needed.
No way I pitch to Elly when I know have a strikeout on deck
You may have forgotten that Elly was playing hurt last season. I can certainly see him getting better if he’s healthy.
Well a 35-plus-homer guy will be in the lineup with Geno. The deal is cheaper than I could expect and the projections were predicting.
Geno will be DH hitter for the most of games I think. Maybe Hayes will be used as a late-game defender much of the season and that would mean the Reds FO made a mistake when traded for him last year…
But, where does that money come from? Obviously they are exceeding their budget unless there would be other moves next days to try saving more money, although I think it’s unlikely at this point …
I very much like that it is a one year deal. The idea of paying Geno into his late 30’s was an idea I wanted no part of.
“The idea of paying Geno into his late 30’s was an idea I wanted no part of.”
Agree 100%.
That’s exactly where I am on this. It’s not like they can’t give him extra option years, if he keeps hitting.
The best scenario is that he turns into a Nelson Cruz, who hit 244 of his 464 homers in a 6-year period from his age 33 to 38 season. Cruz didn’t strike out quite as much, and had a better hit tool than Suarez, but the power was similar.
The Opening Day crowd is going to go nuts for his first AB.
I wonder if Sam Moll is the guy to fall off the 40MR?
I assume this means we’re going to make a trade. Having Steer, Suarez, Stewart and CES at 1B is too many to play one position if my math is right.
Playing Steer all over will make our defense horrible (again). Trade him.
DO NOT put Suarez at 3B over Hayes as the starter. Occasionally, Stewart or Suarez can fill in for Hayes at 3B.
We’re close to going into Spring Training and we kept our pitching rotation intact and added to the bullpen. We added a power bat. We’ve now arguably added to the Wild Card team from last year. That’s a plus.
As in most things, success is not based on the pieces. It’s based on how those pieces interact with the other pieces. I trust Tito to oversee that. I’m looking forward to see if we can come out of Spring Training with a contending team.
Eugenio is a fantastic clubhouse guy.
“Trade him.” – Do not trade Steer; use him wisely. He makes a better utility bat than most anyone in the minors.
“DO NOT put Suarez at 3B over Hayes as the starter.” – So you want the hitting equivalent of a pitcher staring at 3B versus a guy that can hit 49 homeruns?
Maybe we DFA CES so people stop asking about CES like he is going to be an answer.
Doubt it. The Reds DFA’d Aquino early in 2022 then outrighted after he cleared waivers and he was STILL the answer here. Til they parted ways for good later that year,
Maybe the guy needs a look now that he’s injury free. I still think he could be an important piece of the future
We don’t have 4 first basemen, we have 2…Steer and Sal. CES is a minor leaguer and Suarez is a DH. Sal needs to play at 1b almost every day so that his bat is in and he can get fully acclimated to the position long term. Steer has plenty of value to this team in his super utility role and you know someone will get injured. Zero reason to move Steer.
We need Steer to possibly play 2B if McLain can’t get his K rate down and we get a repeat of what we got from him last year.
The Reds finished dead last in MLB in DPT (double plays turned) last year. Steer did not play an inning at 2B last year (guessing because of his shoulder woes). Why do people keep seeing him as a Plan B at 2B? He did not play an inning at 3B either.
The Reds were dead last in MLB in DPS (double plays started) last year. Hayes was 3rd in all of baseball in DPS. He was 46% better than even the 2nd best 3B in terms of DRS (19 to 13).
From the time CIN acquired Hayes (07/31/25), his wRC+ was 82. That ranked 18th among qualified 3B, but that was better than Royce Lewis, Manny Machado, Addison Barger (I know not a true 3B), Brooks Lee, Nolan Gorman and Darrell Hernaiz.
If you project Hayes 2025 playing time for CIN (only) over a full season, here is what you get. A gold glove (maybe platinum) 3B. .234 AVG .315 OBP .342 SLG. 11 HR 58 R 47 RBI 7 SB. And he is entering his age 29 season – a time when you could see a power break out in a park that aids power.
In 2024, Speer (again) did not play an inning at 3B. He played 26 innings at 2B. He had 2 DPS and 0 DPT. He had 0 DRS.
You have to go to 2023, to find innings played at 3B for Steer. There he had -2 DRS in 350.1 innings.
How did TOR get to the World Series last year? Part of it was that they led the league in rGFP – Good Fielding Plays runs saved. They were #1 in FRV – Fielding Run Value. We ranked 13th and 20th respectively.
Hayes is an obvious piece to upgrade our defense. Dane Myers is too.
If you want to compete in ISO, SLG, etc. against the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees, good luck with that. Just kick in an extra $264 million.
Otherwise, our best defensive team (still with a decent offense) is C Trevino (with Stephenson as the offensive upgrade but defensive downgrade), 1B Steer, 2B McLain (but he needs to get better), SS ELDC (he needs to get better), 3B Hayes (with Stewart as the offensive upgrade but defensive downgrade), LF TBD CF Friedl (he should be in LF not CF), RF Marte DH Suarez. My concern now is we may not have enough AB’s for Stewart. Stewart cannot sit more than 2 days a week or we’ll stunt his growth. We’ll all go crazy if he is sent to AAA.
Still, we have a bunch of young players who could grow this year. If a couple do, and our pitching remains a strength, and if our defense is better (notice the number of if’s), we could contend.
Reds pitchers were top third of the league in both K rate and walk rate. They were also 3rd from the bottom in GB%.
So they struck out a lot of guys and didn’t walk a ton and batters put a lot of balls in the air. Perhaps that has something to do with the lack of double plays.
Lots of great points @MBG. But to your questions and points regarding Steer, there’s much more to the story:
McLain was healthy, Lux is best defensively at 2B, and Espinal was on the team in 2025. There were not a lot of opportunities for Steer to play 2B. India was a Red in 2023 and 2024, and the primary 2B–India is not versatile. I would not read anything more into it. I’ve heard Steer say that 2B is his best position. That’s why many see him as a great second option at 2B.
Entering 2023, Steer was penciled in to start at 3B. He wasn’t great at 3B and was needed at 1B when Votto was hurt. He made 40+ starts at 3B, LF, and 1B and a baker’s dozen at 2B.
Going into 2024, he was expected to start in LF, where he made 91 starts, while often covering 1B again, not by design, but because that’s where the team needed him to play.
Lastly, in 2025, Candelario and CES entered the season ahead of Steer at 1B, but Steer ultimately usurped both as neither could hit. Steer didn’t play a single inning in the field during 2025 Spring Training, so it’s a little harder to say with certainty how they planned to use him.
Jason:
Good points. I am pretty leery of a high K-high fly ball approach in GABP, especially in July – Sep.
BK:
Also good points. I would point out that somebody saying their best position is 2B is an issue in and of itself. There is no data to support that. I’m sure he’s better than Mike Moustakas though. No shift to hide anymore if that is not the case.
Without a true utility player, CIN will have to try something though. I saw Stewart in AAA and he looked ok there. CIN needs to excel defensively and on the bases if they want to have a chance to contend though. “Ok” will get us another .500ish season.
@MBG, the majority of his time in college and the minors was at 3B, SS, and 2B in that order. 2B is generally considered the easiest of those three spots. His minor league scouting reports indicated he was a defensively versatile contact-oriented hitter. I’m not saying he’s outstanding at 2B, but you asked why people keep bringing it up — he was a solid infielder in college and in the minor leagues, and he has a good bit of time at 2B. His resume is better, and the scouting reports are better than Steer’s. In his limited time at 2B, he’s been league average according to defensive runs saved and Statcast. Lastly, look at the current roster construction–the Reds are counting on Steer’s versatility. So, there is some data behind the observation, and I don’t understand your bias against his self-assessment. Many of the counterpoints forget that the Reds have had multiple 2B available for the last few seasons–not a lot of need for Steer to play 2B.
Eric Davis and Trevor Hoffman were shortstops in the minors and before that. They did not dabble at SS in the bigs.
While Steer could dabble at 2B for the White Sox or another 90+ loss team, it will not bode well for a contending team, especially one that will not outslug the Big Market teams.
We really need to write on a piece of paper and hang on our walls that we will not win thinking like the Dodgers. It is an advantage to CIN if its defense is better than the -8 DRS of Will Smith, the -1 DRS at 2B of Tommy Edman, the -1 DRS of Andy Pages. If we’re better than them defensively at those spots, we gain an advantage. If we compete with that same group offensively, we’ll lose.
Same thing with respect to speed. If we can outpace the -1.0 wSB of Pages, the -0.5 wSB of Teoscar, the -0.3 wSB of Mookie, the -0.3 wSB of Edman, and the -0.3 wSB of Kike (guessing he’ll re-sign), then we gain an advantage. If we compete on power, RC+, etc., we’ll lose.
If Santillan and Ashcraft turn into monsters in the pen, I’ll put our bullpen up against LAD – even with Diaz. I’ll put our rotation up against anyone. Hunter Greene could win a Cy Young and Chase Burns is an elite talent.
We need defense and we need to green light our speed. No more stealing 3B with 0 or 2 outs though (you reading, Elly?).
This is the first year that we don’t have a plethora (yep, I used it) of question marks. I think we are limited to CF defense, LF offense and that’s it. If we acquired Rafaela from BOS (and solved CF and backup 2B), that would do it (Friedl moves to LF). Guessing that would cause a whole somewhere else due to the outgoing piece(s).
This is the closest we’ve been to contention since the Covid year. If we’re in it at the Trade Deadline, who knows?
We’re looking at Steer from limited data and drawing opposite conclusions. We know the Reds are prioritizing defense, let’s just table this until we see who plays where in ST. We’ll get a good idea of what the Reds are thinking about their middle infield depth. I think we’ll see McLain backup EDLC at SS and Steer or Callihan as the primary backups to McLain at 2B; that said, I think Steer will get most of his time at LF and 1B.
If I was a Reds owner in this small market, I doubt I would want to spend much…I look forward to good Reds season!
Thank goodness. I love this move regardless of his flaws, which we all know. Those 40 bombs will help a tremendous amount and theres nothing they couldve done better in terms of adding power. I don’t think this is much of a production drop off from Schwarber and for a one year deal —nothing to not like. I feel much better about this team. Id feel better if Steer could play lights out left field but as it stands we have another option at second if Mclain struggles now.
Krall did a good job rebuilding the bullpen and then waited out the market to sign Geno at a significant discount. And of course he held onto starting pitching depth in the process.
Gotta say at the end of the day, it’s been a great offseason.
Yep, nice late offseason addition. Let’s play!
You could be right, AllTheHype. We won’t know for sure until around mid June though. Have to tip your hat at least at the approach, given ownership did not really open up their wallets. One caveat, we suddenly don’t deal Singer or someone to reduce payroll.
Have to admit, I was not interested in a Suarez signing this off season – but mostly because I thought it would take 60$M and 3 years!
But now that we have him on a reasonable 1 year deal, I love it! I will have to learn to be patient with the strikeouts though.
Geno is a great guy and as a veteran takes pressure off guys like McLain and Elly and Hunter. He has been on winning teams since he left us. I don’t think that’s a coincidence.
Getting him on only a 1 year deal is the saving grace of this signing for me. I hope he can produce like last year, but if not, at least it won’t be a multi year anchor on the team.
There’s a reason that no one is paying him a multi-year deal for that much money.
Suarez had 49 HR last year. The last Red to have more than 25 HR in a season: Suarez in 2019. And he had 49 HR that year too.
Joey Votto hit 36 HR in 2021.
yep, missed that
How does benson fit in here
5th OF
With Myers the 4th OF, and Bleday getting reps in AAA, I hope?
Benson is on the bubble, for sure. Regardless of signing Bleday and Myers, I don’t think they’re a lot either. If one of the three stink it up in Spring Training, they may be gone.
I do think Benson has one more option.
Regardless, I do think there has to be somebody else to play CF, and give TJ days off. That is either one of Myers, Benson, Dunn or Hinds.
Until the day he got hit in the wrist, CES hit everywhere, including a 800+ OPS in the majors. He can’t be counted on now at all, and maybe shouldn’t even be considered for a spot out of spring this year, but he’s only 26. A one year Suarez deal could give him some good vibes. I’m still on board. Hanging off the rail with both feet dragging, but staying on the ride for another stop.
Stewart or Steer will need to learn how to do the salsa. If Geno hits around .250, Reds will win the Central.
It will be Elly
Geno’s back! I like it! LA will 9-peat with this current system, but atleast the Reds should score more and provide some entertainment value. Last years offense was pretty boring most of the time
Can’t forget that we put 9 runs on the board against the Dodgers in 2 playoff games. Sorry this is my 10th time repeating that.
Suarez will improve the team. I remember that he could be streaky, but I remember that he could hit good pitching when he was going well and that he could not hit bad pitching when he was not going well. Hopefully the team will have fewer games of 0, 1 or 2 runs scored so that our strong pitching will prevail.
I suspect Tito really, really likes this – consider the in-game switching. KBH starts 110 games – if they’re losing after 6, pick anyone to pinch it and Geno moves to 3rd. The 50 games KBH doesn’t start if they’re leading after 5 he enters with the first bullpen piece – in effect a double switch from the pre-DH days. And that’s just at 3rd. Add 1st and the corner OF spots and there’s plenty of offense/defense maneuvering available.
As long as he’s healthy EDLC plays every inning. Everyone else gets 450/500 PAs.
Moving Geno to third forfeits the DH. Probably not gonna happen.
Sal supposedly lost 20 pounds…any chance they try him in LF in the spring?
If he can, then you have 2 gold gloves on the corners, Geno as DH and Sal as your RH hitting LF…just a thought!
I’ve wondered that, too, but I concluded that they wouldn’t want to try something wholly new on a rookie whose bat they need to click. He hasn’t played much 1B, either, but he did have all off-season to work there.
Why not just keep him at 1B and let Steer, who embraces positional flexibility, go to the outfield? It just seems to me that you want the more athletic player playing the position that requires more athleticism. Stewart also has four inches on Steer, and I believe Steer’s stature limits his defense at 1B–yes, he’s good, but there are things a taller player can do that Steer can’t do.
Yes and considering your SS is going to be making the most throws over there a taller first baseman would benefit EDLC greatly. Steer has pretty good defense on batted balls. I’m not so sure he’s great at digging out balls in the dirt.
I don’t think the Reds just paid $16 million to sign Geno for him NOT to play, or get AB’s just about every day.
He is either the starting 3rd baseman, or the everyday DH.
There is no guarantee about anything, and people are counting on Sal Stewart to be an impact player after 55 ML AB’s. Maybe he will, maybe he won’t.
If McLain doesn’t hit, Sal could also play 2nd base. I mean, he lost all that weight! 🙂
And after all this, I still don’t know about a guy that is going to bat .220 with no power, playing a lot of 3rd base, regardless of his stature as a fielder.
And yeah, designate Sam Moll for assignment to make room for Geno. This guy is not going to make the pitching staff as a reliever as it is presently constituted.
He’s the every day DH, and might get to occasional start at 3B trying to tertis guys into the lineup.
Yes, many fans are overcomplicating this signing. Geno is 34 and DH is his primary position at this point (he shouldn’t be rankled as we see how it can extend careers for many players). He may get a spot start when Tito is really tinkering with lineups, but he took Lux’s primary DH spot.
Hayes has a career .253 BA. He may hit .220, as you say, but that would be atypical for him.
I really didn’t like the idea of getting Geno because I thought he’d be about $10M and 2 years more than what’s the Reds paid and that would force the Reds to jettison some salary. The Reds got an over .800 and 125 WRC+ batter to DH for $15M and I don’t think they have to release salary. This is a very good move by Krall.
I believe the Reds have increased their RUNDIFF from +35 to +60-90. That puts the Reds in a much better position for a WC birth.
They don’t have a division winning roster but they have a real shot at a higher seeded WC season and who knows what happens in the playoffs.
Welcome back, Eugenio. I was a member of the chorus a few years ago who thought your time was up with the Reds; my mistake. Now the Reds can take full advantage of the DH position like the Brewers have done in recent years. Finally a veteran slugger to anchor the middle of the batting order to support the Reds outstanding pitching. Congratulations to Krall/Meador for a job well done.
Why not leave Steer at 1st and move Sal to LF.
That way he can play LF, then right, then 2nd, then 3rd, finish at first then pack for Cooperstown
1) Sal has never played OF at any level
2) Steer is significantly faster than Sal
3) Steer has experience in LF
4) Stewart has more offensive upside and if he can settle in primarily one position defensively he can focus on hitting and could also be the middle of the lineup hitter we need if Geno doesn’t work out.
5) Stewart will be here longer
That’s five great reasons. (6) Stewart is taller by four inches, and height helps at 1B but means very little in the OF.
I think this move is a good one for fans too, as it shows the Reds are trying at least to address their weaknesses. Also, it sends a little more message to the Cubs and Brewers that the Reds are a little more serious about winning. Whether Eugenio still can produce at a 40HR year type of level, we will see, but it adds some intrigue and excitement.
I hope as others have commented though it doesn’t take at-bats away from Stewart. I’d really like to see him get a shot to pretty much start every day. It doesn’t seem a combination of McLain, Hayes, Bleday/Meyers?, Steer should keep Stewart out of the lineup if we’re considering Stewart as the top Offensive prospect in the system who they believe is most likely ready for the big leagues. But we’ll see what happens, he is young, and maybe he’d struggle a bit too more so than expected.
I really like the Geno move. It’s only a year deal if need be & if not in playogf contention can trade him for a prospect or two at yhe trade deadline.
Hayes if healthy is not sitting bench.
Stewart & Steer can possibly both play second here n there when Matt needs a day off or is playing short stop a few days, bc Elly is going to get sone days off this year, thats a fact according to Reds plan .
There will be plenty of bats to go around .
I’m not as down as most on Hayes or even Bleday . I’m going to choose to be positive. Words matter & positive is way more ” positive ” lol than negative .
Go Reds !
Welcome home. He’s been an above-average starter each of the last four years. He can hit the ball out of the park. At that price it’s a no-brainer. No point overthinking it. If he goes over the cliff, which is certainly possible, oh well. It’s just money and it’s just one year.
The 2026 Reds already looked like a solid vibes/aura team and I’m always happy to double down on strengths.
I love this signing. And I love this discussion – Reds fans debating what to do with too many good players. Bring on 2026 baseball.
So since the band is getting back together And Geno came home And his power bat protects the guys in front of him in the order and makes them see better pitches so their power and contact numbers should go up also Do we need a thumper in the outfield now or do we just need a contact guy to make this team complete?? Just wondering…. There is a guy thats available and could always rake and can probably be had on a minor league deal with an invite to spring training Our old friend Jesse Winker Hows that for irony??
I’d rather roll with what we have and see if Hector Rodriguez forces his way up to the big club. If we’re going to make a move for LF, it needs to be a significant one.
As much as KBH’s outstanding glove cannot be overlooked, he’s a liability in the batter’s box. He’ll help the club more as a defensive replacement and starting when rounders’ pitchers (Abbott, Lodolo) start, letting Geno to start most days at 3B and DH otherwise. Stewart is ticketed to take over 1B and Steer UT or traded.
HG, NL & CB strike out a very high percentage of guys. AA & BS strike out a few less, therefore present a few more hot grounders to 3B. Start Hayes at 3B during those 62 games. Let Sal and Geno split the other 100 games at 3B. The team goals for starts at various positions should be something like this:
3B: Hayes 62, Sal 50, Geno 50.
1B: Steer 112, Sal 50, Geno 10.
DH: Geno 92, Sal 50, Steer 10, Benson 10.
LF: Bleday 102, Steer 20, Friedl 20, Benson 20.
CF: Friedl 122, Hinds 40.
RF: Marte 132, Hinds 20, Benson 10
2B: McLain 142, Callihan 20.
SS: EDLC 152, McLain 10.
C: Stephenson 112, Trevino 50.
There is no reason with this roster that Will Benson should be the DH
You might be right as he didn’t start any at DH last year, but 61 in the OF. I tried to fit in the 4 primary bench players of Benson, Hinds, Trevino and Callihan. They will try to have a 4th LH hitter in the lineup against most RH pitchers. It will be tough to accomplish between the likes of Benson and Callihan.
Hunter averaged 11.03 strikeouts per nine innings last season. Really good. Leaves 16 outs per nine innings for the defense to handle.
Other than Benson as DH, I like your breakdown
Commented on the previous thread as news was breaking, but very excited to welcome Geno back to Cincinnati. He definitely fits that power bat that we needed in the middle of the lineup. Good job by the FO in making this happen. It was starting to look bleak as even the lower tier guys were signing elsewhere.
As far as positions go, put him at DH primarily while getting fairly regular starts at 3B to give Hayes a rest. Let Stewart take over 1B and have Steer be a super utility guy.
I’d still like to see a trade happen to acquire a starting caliber OF’er. The Reds could get by with a Steer/Bleday platoon in LF but we’ve seen this attempt to platoon a position play out poorly in past seasons. Check in with the Yankees about Dominguez. Trade some prospect capital. Otherwise the roster is pretty close to set it would seem.
Red Sox have Elite SP and Reds likely to see Crochet/Gray/Suarez Opening weekend.
Here’s my crack at OD against lefty Crochet
Friedl CF
Marte RF
Elly SS
Geno DH
Steer LF
Stephenson C
Stewart 1b
McLain 2b
Hayes 3b
Basically replacing Andujar with Geno? I am not sure that’s an upgrade, particularly against Lefty. IMHO sir
I’m very excited to watch Geno’s pursuit of hitting either 0 triples or 2 triples for the 12th season in a row!
(Just being silly… while I admit my knee-jerk reaction was “What the heck is our fascination with acquiring 3rd basemen???”… I am on board and looking forward to welcoming Geno “home” and cheering for his bombs into the LF seats.)
I believe the Reds should trade Hayes for prospects. Signing Suarez will help certainly but I hate to see other guys blocked. I’ll take the less defense provided by Suarez and Sal and appreciate the net gain. There must be some top team that feels like they can sacrifice a bit of hitting for GG defense out there. Give us a 20 year old top prospect or two and you can have him. Then we can give Hinds, HecRod, CES or Dunn a real chance to assert themselves! The 2023 version of Hayes is one thing, a .453 SLG, but the .290 and .306 SLG of the last 2 years is another!
Well, good luck finding anyone who will take Ke’Bryan Hayes, and his contract. I am still puzzled as to why the Reds did that last August. I guess they felt they needed a solid defensive 3rd baseman. Well, he’s a great fielder, but pretty much a non-entity as a hitter.
He batted .235 last year, with 5 HR in 570 AB’s. Scored 50 runs, drove in 49 runs. So his run production was (50 – 5 Hr) + 49, 94 runs.
Compare to Matt McLain who hit 15 HR in 570 AB’s, drove in 50 runs, and scored 73 runs. So his run production was (73 -15) + 50, 108 runs. And he had a “bad” year.
Team that already has a ton of offense should take him. But the Reds is a team that need offense to save their life, yeah, Hayes is not a good option. If Stewart, EDLC, Marte, and McLain hit well, I think Reds should keep Hayes.
Serious question, do you think the Dodgers would want Hayes as their every day third baseman? I maintain that Hayes would not likely be a lock at 3B on any GOOD team. Maybe that’s just me though.
I’m willing to bet (not very much) that Suarez will produce more toward his Arizona numbers of last year than his Mariners. I just think its tough to be traded mid-season and face a new bunch of pitchers (even if you may have faced some of them before).
It will be interesting to see how Francona juggles this. I don’t really see using Suarez at first…so how Francona swaps Hayes and Suarez at 3B will be interesting. I don’t see Francona using Hayes only as a late inning defender. So it will be interesting to see how he values defense vs offense game-to-game (may depend on who’s pitching for either team and of course, who might be streaking at the time).
I think McLain is the one that needs to be looking over his shoulder. Both Steer and Stewart can handle 1B and 2B if necessary. Then again, McLain is probably the better defender than either of them. While Steer could also fill in in LF, his shoulder might hinder what I believe was a ‘weak’ arm for a LFer to begin with. Of course McLain can spell EDLC at SS, but he’ll have to return to his rookie numbers to stay in the mix,
Well we have a righthanded 4 hole hitter now that will also protect EDLC. That takes the offense to another level.
Jarren Duran would really complete this offense, but it will cost a starting pitcher, and I’m guessing that’s Lodolo. To fill the gap, I’d sign Quintana.
CF Friedl, RF Marte, SS EDLC
DH Suarez, LF Duran, 1B Steer
2B McLain, C Steph, 3B Hayes
C Trevino, INF Stewart
OF Bleday, OF Myers
Greene, Abbott, Singer, Burns, Quintana
Pagan, Santillan, Furgeson
Burke, Johnson, Ashcraft
Moll, Phillips
That’s a competing for the division type roster.
I view Duran as an ideal fit for the Reds, but the Red Sox have made multiple moves to upgrade their starting pitching. I see the Yankees as a potential match. Power-hitting left-handed outfielders Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones are currently blocked, and moving one leaves the Yankees with good depth. The Reds are also likely able to trade from their minor league depth rather than a projected rotation arm.
I’d be happy with that. I feel like I read something recent enough, but I won’t rely on my memory.
Really he’s just a name that works, any other player that fills a similar void, and a deal that works with our roster is fine with me.
We all know our starters are top shelf and hopefully even better this year. The depth of our bullpen was a big problem and I love what we did in that department. Obviously, signing Suarez is a good move and hopefully he pans out. If he does, and Stewart is who we think he can be, we will be in good shape. Lets see how we start the season before even talking about trades. We obviously have question marks, but we are in about as good of shape as possible for a penny pinching tight ass organization.
Rhode Island Red……I like it. I’m an old farm boy.
I’d like to see us trade Singer and KBH as a package for either a better everyday LF than we have, or at least one top 50 prospect, plus others, and then we go sign Zack Littell to a 2-year deal with a 3rd year option. He was quietly really good for us after the trade, is still an FA and, this close to spring training, would probably take a “fair deal.”
While Singer was a stud for us, even if his W-L record doesn’t reflect it (folks, there are better numbers to look at) with our overall rotation and bullpen, plus AAA pitchers, Littell should be a decent replacement for Singer. PLUS that solves the infield quagmire that was added to by signing Geno. AND it means we can get TySteve more time at DH, since we don’t want him catching 145 games next season (and his body can’t do that anyway), but we’d love his bat in the lineup that often.
I am sure that there are many, many teams beating down the door to get Ke’Bryan Hayes from the Reds.
The front offices of the other teams all have their agendas and long-short term strategies. If any of them want KBH for a similar reason that made the Reds get him, a deal is possible.
Looking at teams like the White Sox or the Nationals, where they are waiting another year for a prospect to be ready, where winning is secondary to process, they might be interested in KBH.
But I’d say several (unspecified) teams would take a shot at KBH, in much the same way Jose Iglesias has stayed in the league this long. The salary issue is a paperwork matter. Do any of us really care who pays his wages?
I think the Red Sox could use Hayes. They lost Bregman, and Trevor Story (he of the .717 OPS over the past 4 years) is a bad defensive shortstop, who has played the same number of MLB games at 3B as Ella Fitzgerald.
Story’s contract is a clunker ($55 million for 2 years, including an option buyout), and obviously the Reds won’t take it, but Hayes as defensive anchor is better than what the Red Sox have now. (The Sox could use Marcelo Mayer at SS.) Plus, Story gets 10-and-5 rights after this season, and the Sox would be stuck with him for another $30 million.
The Red Sox would need to palm off much of Story’s contract on another team, which is probably a bridge too far, but I could see where they could use Hayes if they were shed of Story.
I’m not predicting it, though.
I didn’t like the KBH trade, but he has trade value.
Stephenson was 6th on the team last year in OBP (.316) and 7th in SLG (.421). There are better options at DH.
Thank God the National League incorporated the DH a few years ago as that is the only way this signing happens. Gino should only DH and maybe a spot start at 1B. His days of being a respectable third baseman are over.
The issue of who plays where could be made a lot easier if Elly would agree to play CF.
Then you put MM at short (more dependable than Elly and makes all the plays), Steer at 2B (better IN than OF) and Sal at 1B. But if Elly doesn’t want to play the OF which he doesn’t, it will never happen. He knows future contracts are bigger as a SS.
I would love to see the Reds sign Nathaniel Lowe. But I’m not pushing my luck. Very happy to see Nick Krall sign Geno. In addition to bringing the power bat we needed, I really think Geno’s veteran presence and the ability to keep things loose will be invaluable. Job well done by Nick Krall and Red’s ownership. Also, kudos to Eugenio for taking less money to come here.
Here is my 13 position players:
C-Stephenson, Trevino
1B/DH- Suarez, Stewart (2B-3B)
2B -McLain (SS)
SS- de la Cruz
3B- Hayes
LF- Bleday, Steer(Utl)
CF- Friedl, Myers
RF- Marte, Benson
Only a few comments to this – they’re going to get an Espinal utility type for the IF positions; much more Steer at 1b if only for late game defense but the innings will pile up; and Benson and Myers are in a group with Hinds/Dunn/HRod/(other?) for the final OF spot. I expect Bleday gets well into June to prove he gets lots of PAs – the rest of that group are platoon/spot starts.
I’m pleased with the move, but I do have worries about Suarez’s strikeout and chase rates. The roster is better overall than last year’s, and Francona is going to have many options about who plays where and bats where in the lineup. Don’t forget that the management (rightly) believes in strong defense, so moving Steer off first may not be as cut-and-dried of a move as some think. I also think Sal Stewart has to have a good spring to make the team. He’s not going to make it by default if he hits poorly.
It was a very pleasing shock to read Charlie Goldsmith’s reporting that the front office decided to increase payroll in response to what fans wanted. I’m curious to learn if progress was made on the TV rights situation, or if that report of thinking of the fans’ interest first at the ownership’s expense was valid.
The pitching, if healthy, is good enough to win a division title and perhaps more. And now there’s at least a chance that the offense could be in a position to contribute its fair share to a winning formula.
Very interesting thought about the lack of a definable TV contract not nixing the added spending for Suarez and the weight fan disgruntlement may have played a role in the reversal. O’ to be a fly in the room some days down at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
“Don’t forget that the management (rightly) believes in strong defense, so moving Steer off first may not be as cut-and-dried of a move as some think.”
I agree with this, Krall’s moves and comments back that up.
My guess is Stewart is a 1B/3B/DH utility player until an injury opens up an everyday spot. He’d still likely get a ton of AB’s, but just a bit behind the starters imo.
Stewart has 3 positions beyond DH that he could claim if an injury happens, 1B/2B/3B, so an injury to any infielder opens up a spot for him. Obviously he’s not a SS, but if EDLC were injured, McLain would cover, and he’d take 2B.
Great comments, Tom. I guess I’m a little more optimistic that Stewart will bloom defensively at 1B. As for management, as someone who lives hundreds of miles away, I’m always a bit surprised at how much disdain the fanbase has for their current ownership, even after all of the losing. If the Reds can’t put a few winning seasons together, it’s hard to see the franchise staying put when the GABP lease expires. While I think baseball’s economic model is broken and particularly challenging to the Reds, Ownership has not helped this franchise keep Cincinnati as a baseball town, and it’s a shame from my distant vantage point.
“I’m pleased with the move, but I do have worries about Suarez’s strikeout and chase rates”
Reds fans have to prepare themselves as there were MANY who were frustrated last year with EDLC and his strikeouts. I do expect him to improve but still he was 10th in the majors with 181. Now we’re going to add to that Suarez who was fourth at a 196. There’s potentially going to be A LOT of Ks coming from the three and four spots in the lineup.
We might both lead the league in K’s and be top 10 in runs scored. We were 14th in runs scored last year.
Not sure if this has been mentioned today, but a few weeks ago when the Reds and Xavier announced their new relationship, Barry and Byron were together during the halftime presentation and that was very cool. But Phil was there too and got greeted by a cascade of BOOOOS! Maybe that got their attention?
Anyway, welcome back Geno!! This flickering of optimism is fun!
Can’t help but wonder if that prediction that we’re going to finish third in the division and be below .500 is going to hold up now? I doubt it.
We will find out when everything gets updated near the end of spring training, but if we are going to simply use “WAR” that Suarez is adding, they still project to be under the .500 mark by a smidge.
But I want to be sure to point out that it was not a prediction, but a projection. They are similarish things but they are not the same thing.
Thanks for clarifying, Doug. Coming out to AZ this spring?
I also have reservations about Stewart being a juggernaut for 2026.
I went back and looked at the partial year numbers for McLain, Benson, Marte and CES when they all really hit the scene in 2023. McLain, Benson andCES all dropped 70 points on batting average in 2024-2025 seasons. All dropped at least .200 in OPS. OBP dropped like stones. Power dropped off. McLain had 140 more AB’s in 2025 and hit one less home run than he did in 2023. Bensons so% was nearly 36% in 2023. He managed to raise it to 38.5% in 24-25 aggregation of his numbers. His Hr/AB did stay about the same.
Marte’s numbers dropped like a stone in 2024 but did recover in 2025.
EDLC did improve in 2024 but slid back in 2025.
Friedl’s numbers have been steady except for his injury year.
Steers numbers have been more consistent too in power and RBI but obp and slug are falling
There are injury influences, and suspensions in this stats, but the theme is major league pitchers adjust, quickly.
My long winded point is we had a number of players who showed well for 2023 and then fell off a cliff on 2024. All of these players had many more AAA AB’s, and many more plate appearances in the MLB in there first year than Stewart.
I didn’t originally think about Suarez as a back up plan for Stewart if he struggles but I think he is plan B as full time DH if Stewart needs some time in AAA.
In Sal’s brief 55 PA in 2025, his BABIP was .257, well below league average.
Check out these 2023 BABIP’s:
McLain: .385 (.864 OPS)
Benson: .391 (.863 OPS)
CES: .336 (.803 OPS)
The evidence that those three would regress was staring us all in the face. Stewart with his .257 BABIP still put up a .839 OPS. Benson actually had a better BABIP in 2024 than he did 2025, he just struck out 40% of the time in 2024. The underlying stats say to expect big things from Sal Stewart.
I am surprised, in a good way considering the FO indication that they increased the budget (didn’t come at the cost of losing other quality players) as well as a one year investment (less risk.) Love Geno the person, not so much the player will high SO rates and low OBP. Power ages better with control of the zone. Not sure this deal will really move the meter a ton, but if it gives Elly protection and puts less pressure on Stewart/Marte, etc. then that matters.
So out with Austin Hays, Gavin Lux, Espinal, Fraley and in with Bleday, Stewart, KHayes, and Geno. I think that’s better, and hoping it is much better.
Also, I agree with folks who said don’t praise the ownership for raising payroll. Maybe getting F’s from ESPN and the overall fans reactions have placed the pressure on the right folks.
Tito is popular, Krall is doing a fantastic job. This team will go as far as the owners will invest in them. Thanks to Geno for taking a home-town discount, not to the owners for signing a one year bat that was desparately needed the last several years.
I’m glad to hear folks boo’d Phil Castillini, I would have as well if given the chance.
Boy, am I ever looking forward to spring training this year.
Headed out March 14-21, and I am taking my grandsons. I highly recommend Arizona that time of year. Every facility is within an hour’s drive of almost anywhere in the valley; the weather is great; Phoenix-Scottsdale has a great baseball buzz to it all spring; the food is good; and there is plenty of good desert hiking to get done at all levels.
Old Big Ed:
I’m there 03/15-03/19. See you there!
Have a great time, both of you.
I don’t like the strikeouts or poor defense but that often goes along with a power bat, I love the signing, positive clubhouse guy who any pitcher much be careful with because mistakes will be punished! Smart move for ticket sales and giving Tito what he needs to succeed. Singer needs to stay though because I have only ever seen one year the reds starters stayed healthy all year. Walk at the end of the year? Likely but the risk we must accept, and trade chip possibility at the deadline. Steer a great asset to this team and although I prefer he play first he is willing and able to play anywhere the team asks him, a true team player. With the great pitchers we have defense wins games and now two of our strengths are pitching and defense. We will not be a top notch offence all around but a dangerous lineup to make mistakes to. So much to look forward to this year, no complaints, bring on spring training!!! 🙂
Reds got Suarez for a steal IMO. I thought he would get more like 15-20M per year and two or three years. Reds still have surplus pitching and even with Suarez they need an everyday OF. Trade Singer and another SP (Lowder?) for a needle moving everyday cost controlled OF (Red Sox OF Jarren Duran?) and use the money saved from Singer to go sign Nick Martinez? Whatever the details I would make a trade for an good OF for a good SP. Yeah it’s taking a bit of a chance with our pitching depth but as we all know you have to give to get. Most of us have been clamoring for the Reds to go out and make a big splash for a very, very long time. Now they have made a splash let’s go get that big splash and get serious for the division title and beyond.
It’s fine. It’s a lot better than nothing. I like him, and it’s nice to have him back. Hopefully he’ll hit lots of home runs. He’ll strike out, probably a lot.
I’m still not excited about Nick Krall’s work. I think it’d be nice if the Reds had some kind of plan… it doesn’t look to me like they do.
They traded Suarez in March of 2022 when he was 4 years younger, and his contract at the time was at least as reasonable as this one is. Was that return (Fraley, Williamson, and Dunn) so good the Reds just couldn’t pass it up? They really could’ve used Suarez these last few years over any of those guys. They also–just last summer–traded for a 3rd baseman who isn’t going to sit the bench and may (or just as likely, may not be) tradable?
I like having Suarez back. I’d also like to see something resembling a coherent plan out of the front office.
Phillips was in the deal as well, so it will be interesting this season to compare the WARs put up by Williamson/Phillips on one side vs. Geno/Winker on the other. Big bullpen arms can have outsized numbers – this may be the season this deal turns in the Reds favor. The Castillo – Marte/Arroyo deal still very much TBD.
Geno, you belong in the Queen City! You know you love this ballpark. You are going to have some real good fun again.