The Cincinnati Reds are generating buzz both on and off the field as the 2026 season approaches. From prospect development to bold predictions, here's the latest news surrounding the team.
Prospect Watch: Sal Stewart and Hector Rodriguez
Infielder Sal Stewart, a highly regarded prospect within the Reds organization, received a challenge from Terry Francona after the 2025 season [2, 14, 15]. While the specifics of the challenge weren't detailed, it underscores the high expectations surrounding Stewart, who is seen as a potential future star for Cincinnati [2].
Meanwhile, outfielder Hector Rodriguez is turning heads in the Dominican Winter League [6, 10]. After being added to the Reds' 40-man roster in November to protect him from the Rule 5 draft [10], Rodriguez has returned to action and had a big game [6, 10]. Rodriguez hit .283/.336/.450 between Double-A and Triple-A last season [10]. His improvements in plate discipline, especially his ability to lay off pitches outside the strike zone, have been noteworthy [7].
Greene Trade Rumors and Pagan's Bold Prediction
Despite speculation about a potential trade involving ace Hunter Greene, the Reds reportedly do not plan to trade him this offseason [3, 4]. Greene's potential is undeniable, with his fastball velocity ranking in the 99th percentile among qualified pitchers [11]. He primarily utilizes a three-pitch mix, including a four-seam fastball (57.6%), cutter (23.6%), and slider (18.8%) [11]. Command issues have been a concern, but his elite swing-and-miss stuff makes him a valuable asset [11].
Adding to the optimism surrounding the team, Emilio Pagán has made a bold statement about the Reds' chances in the upcoming season [1]. Despite sportsbooks like FanDuel listing them with the third-best odds to win the National League Central, Pagán believes the Reds can win the division [1]. "I don’t see why we can’t go win the division,” Pagán told MLB.com's Mark Sheldon [1].
Former Reds relief pitcher Taylor Rogers has signed with the Minnesota Twins for one year at $2 million [12]. Rogers had a 2.45 ERA in 40 appearances with Cincinnati [12]. The Reds traded Gavin Lux in a three-team deal, acquiring left-handed reliever Brock Burke, who threw a 100 mph pitch last season [5].
TL;DR
- Emilio Pagán boldly predicts the Reds can win their division in the upcoming season [1].
- Prospect Sal Stewart received a challenge from Terry Francona, highlighting the high expectations for the young infielder [2, 14, 15].
- Hunter Greene is not expected to be traded this offseason, solidifying his role as a key part of the Reds' pitching staff [3, 4].
- Hector Rodriguez, added to the 40-man roster in November, is showcasing his talent in the Dominican Winter League [6, 10].