The free-agent market is surging this offseason, and while not every player is cashing in like Juan Soto, the skyrocketing prices have left small-market teams like the Cincinnati Reds on the sidelines.
Reds President of Baseball Operations, Nick Krall, may be waiting for prices to cool before making moves. However, when someone like Max Kepler secures a one-year, $10 million deal, it highlights how challenging the market has become.
If Cincinnati were genuinely committed to upgrading their outfield, fans might already have seen them make a splash with a big contract for Anthony Santander or Teoscar Hernández. Unfortunately, Reds fans are all too familiar with Krall and his team playing it safe, often settling for mid-market deals like those for Tommy Pham in 2022 and Wil Myers in 2023.
Reds Could Target Former Braves Outfielder Ramón Laureano
Given the circumstances, the Reds might pivot to pursuing former Braves outfielder Ramón Laureano. After starting the 2024 season with the Cleveland Guardians and struggling mightily—hitting just .143/.265/.229 in 31 games—Laureano was released in May. The Braves then signed him to a Minor League deal, and by mid-June, he was contributing solidly to Brian Snitker’s roster.
In 216 at-bats as Atlanta’s part-time right fielder, Laureano posted an impressive .296/.327/.505 slash line with 10 home runs and 29 RBIs. Renowned as a strong defender, he has recorded 13 defensive runs saved (DRS) over the past two seasons, according to Fielding Bible.
Additionally, Laureano excelled against left-handed pitching in 2024, slashing .305/.343/.526. Pairing him with Jake Fraley could create an effective platoon in Cincinnati’s outfield. Fraley struggled off the field last season but remains productive against right-handed pitchers, with a career OPS significantly higher against righties than lefties.
While some Reds fans may balk at the idea of another budget-conscious move, high-priced free agents are likely out of reach for Cincinnati. Rather than compromising the team’s financial flexibility for 2025 and beyond, Krall could opt for a short-term solution in right field by utilizing Laureano and Fraley as a tandem. It may not be the bold move fans are hoping for, but with limited options remaining, it might be the Reds’ best path forward.
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