This offseason, the Cincinnati Reds have shown little interest in spending on free agency, which aligns with their usual approach to roster building. While they occasionally deviate from this pattern, the Reds generally focus on low-cost free agents or enhance their roster through trades.
The latter strategy might be the most effective way for Cincinnati to strengthen their team this winter. Targeting controllable, pre-arbitration-eligible talent or players on long-term deals provides stability, but exploring one-year rentals could also be a smart move. Such deals would reduce the return the Reds need to offer, helping preserve the top tier of their farm system. Which one-year rentals should the Reds consider this offseason?
The Reds should be eyeing these one-year rentals in trade talks
Mike Yastrzemski, San Francisco Giants outfielder
The outfield remains a significant concern for the Reds. Jake Fraley endured a tough 2024 campaign, TJ Friedl struggled with injuries all season, and Spencer Steer often appeared out of place in left field. While adding another left-handed bat might not be a top priority for Nick Krall this offseason, Mike Yastrzemski presents an intriguing option with his combination of power and on-base consistency.
Yastrzemski’s disciplined approach at the plate, evidenced by one of the best chase rates in baseball last season, makes him stand out. Additionally, his power potential could flourish outside of Oracle Park. According to Baseball Savant, Yastrzemski could have hit 27 home runs in 2024 if he had played all his games at Great American Ball Park.
Eugenio Suárez, Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman
The D-backs may have put an end to any hopes of signing Eugenio Suárez this offseason, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Arizona plans to keep him for 2025. Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen made a smart decision in picking up Suárez’s team option, but with Arizona’s wealth of infield depth, his long-term future with the team remains uncertain.
Given the Reds’ struggles at third base, both offensively and defensively, bringing Geno back should still be a consideration this offseason. As it stands, Cincinnati looks set to begin the season with either Jeimer Candelario or Noelvi Marte at the hot corner—neither of which is an ideal solution.
Lane Thomas, Cleveland Guardians outfielder
A clear fit for the Reds’ outfield is Cleveland Guardians centerfielder Lane Thomas. After being traded from the Nationals to Cleveland last summer, Thomas could find himself on the move again before Opening Day.
While Thomas isn’t known for his defensive prowess, his right-handed bat would complement the left-handed tandem of TJ Friedl and Jake Fraley nicely. With the Reds in need of outfield help, few options align as well with their needs as Thomas does.
Yandy Díaz, Tampa Bay Rays first baseman
While some Reds fans are confident in Christian Encarnacion-Strand taking over at first base, the team’s unsuccessful pursuit of Josh Naylor suggests the front office still harbors some doubts. With CES still having minor-league options, acquiring a player like Yandy Díaz could give the young slugger more time to refine his game in the minors.
Díaz, who was on the trade block last summer, has one year left with Tampa Bay before hitting free agency after the 2025-26 offseason. Despite a down year in 2024, the 33-year-old is only one season removed from an outstanding .330/.410/.522 slash line with 22 home runs. Known for his elite contact skills, Díaz rarely strikes out and could easily hit 30-plus homers at Great American Ball Park. His current contract also includes a team option for 2026, making him an appealing short-term and potentially long-term option.
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