The Cincinnati Reds have found themselves in a rare and intriguing position during the 2024 MLB offseason. Historically known as a small-market team, the Reds are suddenly entering the conversation as one of the most active players in the trade and free-agent markets. The organization has been clear about its intentions: they are “in on everyone,” including multiple superstars who could command over $100 million in contract offers. While this bold approach is a stark contrast to the Reds’ usual financial restraint, it signals a potential shift in how the franchise is positioning itself for the future. With the club’s young core, emerging talent, and a playoff-contending roster, the Reds are finally ready to make a splash at the highest levels.
### The Reds’ New Aggressive Approach
The 2023 season provided the Reds with a strong foundation for the future. After years of rebuilding, they saw their young players, like Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Spencer Steer, develop into key contributors at the Major League level. The Reds were competitive for much of the season and, although they ultimately fell short of a postseason berth, the experience served as a catalyst for the front office to re-evaluate their approach.
Whereas in the past, the Reds might have been hesitant to allocate significant resources to big-ticket free agents, the success of their young core and the maturing of their farm system has given the team both confidence and financial flexibility. With a number of potential blockbuster deals on the table, the Reds are embracing a more aggressive approach to team building.
“We have a window here,” said Reds GM Nick Krall. “We believe in the players we’ve developed and have the financial resources to add to this team. We’re in on everyone, and we intend to compete.”
### Big-Name Targets for the Reds
The Reds’ most recent statements indicate they are targeting high-profile free agents and trade acquisitions, even those with hefty price tags. Among the names linked to the Reds this offseason are players who could command upwards of $100 million in contract offers.
**1. Shohei Ohtani**
Perhaps the biggest name in baseball this offseason, Shohei Ohtani is a dual-threat superstar, excelling both as a pitcher and hitter. While the Los Angeles Angels are widely expected to make every effort to re-sign him, the Reds are among the teams rumored to be pursuing Ohtani. Signing Ohtani would be a monumental move for any team, but for a franchise like the Reds, it would signal a willingness to make an all-in push for a World Series title. Ohtani’s unique combination of pitching and hitting would immediately make the Reds one of the most exciting teams in baseball, not just on the field but also off it, as the international market would take notice.
**2. Blake Snell**
As the reigning NL Cy Young winner, Blake Snell has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. The Reds have long been in need of a bona fide ace to complement their young rotation, and Snell could be the perfect fit. He would provide an elite arm in the rotation, helping stabilize the pitching staff and potentially elevating the Reds to contender status in the National League. Snell’s track record of striking out batters and performing in big moments would be a huge asset to a team hoping to make a deep playoff run.
**3. Yoshinobu Yamamoto**
The Reds have also been linked to the Japanese star Yoshinobu Yamamoto, one of the top pitching prospects to come over from NPB. Yamamoto is expected to secure a large, multi-year contract, potentially reaching over $100 million. If the Reds were able to land Yamamoto, it would significantly upgrade their rotation. The Reds have had success with international players in the past, and adding a high-quality arm like Yamamoto would give them an even stronger foundation on the mound.
**4. Matt Chapman**
Another name that has come up in Reds rumors is third baseman Matt Chapman, a well-regarded slugger and gold glove-caliber defender. Chapman is expected to receive a substantial contract, potentially in the $100 million range. Adding Chapman to a lineup already featuring De La Cruz, McLain, and Steer would give the Reds one of the most dangerous infields in the league. Chapman would also provide a stabilizing force at third base, a position where the Reds have often struggled to find consistency.
**5. Juan Soto (via Trade)**
Juan Soto, one of the most electrifying hitters in baseball, has been the subject of trade rumors as the San Diego Padres have faced financial challenges. Soto is projected to be one of the next superstars to hit free agency, but given the Padres’ need to shed payroll, a trade could be a viable option for a team like the Reds. Trading for Soto would require a massive prospect haul, but with the Reds’ deep farm system, they could be well-positioned to pull off such a deal. The addition of Soto would provide an immediate impact to the Reds’ offense, transforming them into one of the most feared teams in the NL.
### How the Reds Can Afford These Moves
The biggest question surrounding the Reds’ pursuit of $100 million-plus players is how they can afford such contracts. The Reds have historically operated with a more conservative payroll, often hovering below the league’s middle tier in terms of spending. However, the club is in a much stronger financial position now, bolstered by television deals, increased revenue from a loyal fanbase, and the MLB’s collective bargaining agreement that has provided greater financial flexibility to smaller-market teams.
In addition, the Reds have some financial wiggle room with several players currently under team control or on affordable contracts. Their farm system is also well-stocked, allowing them to trade from their prospect pool to strengthen the roster without immediately impacting the payroll. For example, the Reds could trade for Soto or another superstar while still maintaining their ability to sign high-priced free agents.
### Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Reds
The Reds’ decision to be “in on everyone” represents a clear turning point for the franchise. After years of rebuilding and player development, they are poised to make a significant leap forward in both talent and payroll flexibility. By pursuing $100 million-plus superstars, they are signaling that they are serious about competing for a championship and willing to put resources behind their young core. The 2024 offseason could very well be the beginning of a new era for the Reds—one where they not only contend for titles but also become a powerhouse in the National League. If they succeed in adding one or more of these superstar players, the Reds could quickly find themselves among the elite teams in baseball.
