As the Cincinnati Reds reflect on their 2025 season, the organization is faced with critical player decisions and a clear path forward. After finishing the season with an 83-79 record and a brief postseason appearance, the Reds are now evaluating their roster and coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Coaching Staff Retained
One of the first moves by President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall and General Manager Brad Meador was to announce that the entire coaching staff will be retained for the 2026 season. This decision underscores the organization’s belief in the current coaching structure, despite the mixed results from the recent campaign. The Reds aim to build on the foundation established this past season, marking their first full-year playoff berth since 2013, even if they were swept in the Wild Card series by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Key Player Evaluations
Amidst this backdrop, several players are under scrutiny as the team looks to bolster its roster. Spencer Steer’s versatility remains a focus, as questions arise about where he might fit best in the lineup moving forward. The Reds are also considering potential trades and free-agent signings to enhance their competitive edge. Players such as Emilio Pagán are at a crossroads; Pagán has expressed a desire to remain with Cincinnati, highlighting the importance of contract negotiations in the coming months.
Furthermore, the Reds are closely monitoring the development of their young talent. The organization is excited about the potential of prospects like Elly De La Cruz and Christian Encarnacion-Strand. The recent FanGraphs Top 100 prospects listing, which included three Reds players, emphasizes the team’s commitment to nurturing its future stars.
Offseason Strategies
As the Reds prepare for the offseason, they face the challenge of making impactful decisions without a significant budget increase. Evaluations of existing players like Austin Hays are critical, especially regarding options for the upcoming season. Hays’ performance, alongside others, could determine the team's direction and spending strategy.
Moreover, Krall and Meador are contemplating how to improve the pitching rotation, with consideration given to players like Brady Singer, who made notable contributions in 2025. The Reds aim to find the right balance of veteran presence and emerging talent to ensure they don't roll into 2026 with a stagnant roster.
TL;DR
- The Cincinnati Reds have decided to retain their entire coaching staff for the 2026 season.
- Evaluations of key players like Spencer Steer and Emilio Pagán are underway as the team maps out its offseason strategy.
- The Reds are optimistic about their young prospects, with three players making the FanGraphs Top 100 list.
- The team faces budget constraints while looking to improve its pitching and overall roster ahead of the upcoming season.