Reds on the Brink of a Game-Changing Deal!

The Reds are actively engaged in discussions with free-agent infielder Jeimer Candelario, and according to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, Cincinnati is currently leading the race to secure the switch-hitter’s services. This information aligns with earlier reports from Univision’s Mike Rodriguez, indicating serious talks and the Reds being finalists in the pursuit of Candelario, who is represented by Premier Talent Sports & Entertainment. While previous reports had linked the Nationals, Blue Jays, Angels, and D-backs to Candelario, Arizona’s recent acquisition of Eugenio Suarez has likely removed them from contention.

Despite the apparent surplus of young infield talent on the Reds’ roster, the team has been linked to Candelario for several weeks. Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer mentioned that the Reds met twice with Candelario’s representatives during the Winter Meetings and are considering adding him to the team. This move could lead to a positional shuffle, potentially pushing utilityman Spencer Steer to the outfield and creating an opportunity for the Reds to explore trades for infielders in exchange for pitching support.

Candelario, at the age of 30, is coming off a standout season, achieving a combined .251/.336/.471 batting line with career-highs in home runs (22), doubles (39), and stolen bases (8-for-9). His performance in 2023 was split between the Nationals and the Cubs, with whom he was originally signed, traded to Detroit in 2017, and reacquired by the Cubs in July 2023.

Despite some struggles earlier in his career, particularly in 2019, Candelario rebounded in 2020 and 2021. However, after a challenging 2022 season with the Tigers, he entered free agency and positioned himself for a multi-year deal this offseason. The Reds’ pursuit of Candelario introduces an interesting dynamic given the team’s already rich infield talent, featuring emerging prospects like Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand, as well as established players like Spencer Steer and Jonathan India.

The potential signing of Candelario by the Reds may complicate the team’s infield dynamics, particularly at third base, where Marte is expected to start. Nevertheless, adding a player of Candelario’s caliber could strengthen the Reds’ position in a market with a scarcity of free-agent infielders, simultaneously enhancing their bargaining power in trade discussions for pitching help.

The Reds, led by GM Nick Krall, face the challenge of managing their surplus of talented infielders. While India was initially considered a trade candidate, recent statements from Krall suggest an expectation of India remaining on the roster in 2024. The wealth of young talent in De La Cruz, McLain, and others makes it challenging for Cincinnati to contemplate trades. However, if the Reds successfully secure Candelario, it could alleviate some of the pressure associated with these decisions.

The Reds have already made moves to bolster their pitching staff, signing Nick Martinez to complement their young cadre of pitchers. Additionally, they’ve been linked to potential trade targets such as Dylan Cease, Shane Bieber, and Tyler Glasnow. The addition of Candelario and a subsequent trade involving an infielder could provide the Reds with a strategic advantage, offering unexpected flexibility for a front office known for operating within budget constraints.