Reds’ Post-Winter Meetings To-Do List: Three Critical Moves to Strengthen the Roster for 2024…

The Reds find themselves with unfinished business after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, which were notably uneventful. While deals were made post-event, President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall is tasked with addressing three key areas for improvement:

1. Acquire a Right-Handed Hitting Outfielder: Despite securing Jeimer Candelario, the Reds still lack a right-handed hitting outfielder. Speculation surrounds the potential signing of free agent Michael A. Taylor, offering an upgrade over Stuart Fairchild and strengthening the lineup against left-handed pitchers. The current left-heavy roster could benefit from a right-handed presence, and players like Randal Grichuk, Adam Duvall, or Harrison Bader are potential targets to fill the void left by Nick Senzel.
2. Secure a Frontline Starting Pitcher: While Nick Martinez’s addition was a positive move, it’s insufficient to elevate the team’s starting rotation significantly. With expectations of competitive moves from the Cubs and the Cardinals already upgrading, the Reds need a frontline starter. Dylan Cease, with two seasons of team control, stands out as the ideal trade target. If a deal proves elusive, alternatives include Shane Bieber or Tyler Glasnow, both top-tier starters with associated injury risks. While requiring less prospect capital, they come at a higher cost in terms of 2024 salary and impending free agency.
3. Bolster the Bullpen: The Reds have taken steps to address the bullpen by adding Emilio Pagán. If a frontline starter like Cease or Bieber is acquired, Nick Martinez may transition to a relief role. However, if Martinez remains in the rotation, additional bullpen depth is necessary. While not mandatory, adding a left-handed pitcher like Aroldis Chapman, Jordan Hicks, or Hector Neris in free agency could strengthen the relief corps. The bullpen, strained during the 2023 season, needs reinforcement for a more reliable performance in 2024.

Addressing these three key areas—outfield, starting rotation, and bullpen—will be crucial for the Reds to fortify their roster and contend for the NL Central Division crown in the upcoming season.