The Cincinnati Reds have made it clear they’re looking to strengthen their third base position, and acquiring Luis Rengifo from the Los Angeles Angels could be an ideal move for them. Rengifo, who brings solid defensive skills and versatility to the table, has proven to be a valuable player for the Angels. He is a primarily third baseman but can comfortably handle second base, shortstop, and all three outfield positions, giving the Reds much-needed flexibility in their lineup.
Over the last three seasons, Rengifo has been remarkably consistent, posting around a 2.0 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) each year, showing his reliability and all-around contributions. Though his primary role has been at second and third base, his ability to shift around the diamond makes him an appealing option for a team like the Reds, who prioritize versatility.
In 2024, Rengifo’s season was marred by some injury concerns, but he still managed to hit a solid .300 with a .763 OPS in 78 games. This offensive production, combined with his ability to handle multiple positions, makes him a potential upgrade over the Reds’ current options at third base. Additionally, his strikeout rate, which sits well below the league average (14.5% compared to 22.2%), could also be a big asset in the Reds’ lineup, offering better contact than many of their current hitters.
As Rengifo enters his final year of team control and is set for arbitration, this could present an opportunity for the Reds to acquire him at a relatively affordable price. Spotrac reports that Rengifo filed for $5.95 million, while the Angels have offered $5.8 million. Given his injury history and the fact that he has never appeared in more than 127 games in a single season, Rengifo could be a low-risk acquisition that doesn’t require the Reds to part with significant prospects or major league talent. The Angels may also be open to moving him to avoid arbitration costs in 2025, which could play into the Reds’ favor.
From a strategic standpoint, acquiring Rengifo also provides the Reds with some additional options moving forward. If top prospect Noelvi Marte begins to develop and show he’s ready for regular playing time, Rengifo could shift to a different role or position, with Marte potentially taking over at third base. This scenario allows the Reds to not only address their immediate need but also maintain flexibility for future roster adjustments.
Overall, trading for Luis Rengifo could be a smart and cost-effective move for the Reds as they continue to build a competitive roster. He offers a blend of defensive versatility, solid offensive production, and a reasonable contract situation, making him an intriguing target for the team as they look to improve their third base position.