Noelvi Marte The Cincinnati Reds have struggled this season, falling short of expectations due to injuries and ending up below .500. Despite having a promising group of young talent, including standout infielders like Elly De La Cruz, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Noelvi Marte, the team needs to add veteran free agents to strengthen their roster. Luis Severino, JD Martinez, and Mark Canha are three potential targets who could significantly impact the team.
Currently, the Reds’ young talent is concentrated in the infield. De La Cruz, a key player and one of baseball’s rising stars, is expected to lead the team. Encarnacion-Strand will likely return to first base, and Marte is anticipated to excel in the 2025 season. To complement these young players, the Reds must make strategic veteran acquisitions while adhering to a budget.
The Reds’ competitive window extends through the 2029 season, during which De La Cruz will remain under team control. By adding these veteran players, the Reds could enhance their chances of success in the National League, with a particular focus on the 2025 season.
Strengthening the Rotation with Luis Severino
Luis Severino of the New York Mets has had a strong season in 2024, with a 104 OPS+ and 10 wins. The Reds, having previously signed Frankie Montas as their Opening Day starter, saw him traded to the Brewers after a solid but overshadowed performance by young Hunter Greene. To solidify their rotation, the Reds should consider Severino, who, if available within their budget, could provide valuable experience and stability behind Greene, the expected Opening Day starter next year.
Mark Canha to Bolster the Outfield
Mark Canha, who has played with both the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants this season, has demonstrated reliability as a veteran outfielder despite modest stats (.237 batting average, .684 OPS). His addition could address the Reds’ outfield depth issues highlighted by Will Benson’s injury. A short-term, affordable deal with Canha would provide necessary depth and stability, aiding the Reds in their pursuit of a division title.
JD Martinez to Add Power to the Lineup
JD Martinez, who joined the Mets late in the offseason and missed initial weeks of the season, has been a solid contributor as a designated hitter. At 37, Martinez brings both experience and power, which the Reds have lacked this year. Great American Ballpark is known for its hitter-friendly conditions, and Martinez could help the Reds improve their home run tally, which ranks 16th in the league. Replacing the injured and soon-to-be free agent Nick Martini with Martinez on a one-year deal could enhance the Reds’ lineup and potentially make Martinez a key figure in the team’s playoff aspirations.