The Cincinnati Reds are bringing back a familiar player. According to ESPN, the team has reached a deal with third baseman Eugenio Suarez for a one-year contract valued at $15 million, which includes a mutual option for 2027, though the Reds have yet to officially announce the agreement.
Suarez, 34, played for the Reds from 2015 through 2021 and achieved his best seasons in Cincinnati, notably hitting 49 home runs in 2019. Last year, he split time between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, posting a batting line of .228/.298/.526 with a combined 49 homers. His performance was notably stronger before being traded (.897 OPS) compared to after (.682 OPS), which may have lessened his appeal on the free-agent market.
Earlier this offseason, Suarez was ranked 14th among free agents, but by February he stood out as the top remaining hitter on the open market. Analysts note that Suarez is testing the extremes in his batting approach. Despite his power at the plate and a solid walk rate, his strikeout numbers remain relatively high, partially due to struggles pitching to the inside and outside edges. Concerns include his age (he’ll turn 35 in July), defensive limitations, and right-handed bat. His position on the roster could become uncertain once his bat cools, but for now, he is expected to occupy a middle-of-the-lineup spot.
The Reds also have Ke’Bryan Hayes, who is under contract through 2028 with $36 million remaining and is considered one of the best defensive third basemen in baseball. Hayes is not expected to lose his starting role to Suarez, suggesting that Suarez will primarily serve as a designated hitter and sometimes play first base, possibly cutting into the playing time of Spencer Steer, the current first baseman. All three players bat right-handed, with Sal Stewart likely seeing less time as well.
Cincinnati earned a postseason berth last year by defeating the New York Mets in a tiebreaker, but their offense was inconsistent. The team ranked 14th in runs scored and 21st in home runs—mediocre stats that could certainly be enhanced. Prior to signing Suarez, the only offensive additions the Reds made this offseason were platoon outfielders JJ Bleday and Dane Myers.
With last season’s 83-79 record matching their best since 2021, it marked Cincinnati’s first postseason appearance since 2020 and their first full playoff campaign since 2013.
Fan Take: Bringing back Eugenio Suarez shows the Reds are serious about boosting their power threat and offensive depth as they aim to build on last season’s success. For baseball fans, this move highlights how teams continue to value experienced sluggers who can provide middle-of-the-order production, potentially shaping playoff races and team strategies in the coming season.
