Nick Kirby and Bryce Spalding break down the Cincinnati Reds’ latest roster moves, including the three players added to the 40-man roster ahead of the Rule 5 Draft protection deadline. They take an in-depth look at each addition, assess the players the Reds now risk losing, and discuss what these decisions signal about the organization’s long-term plans.
00:00 OMAHA!
01:57 Reds Add 3 Prospects to 40-man
15:13 DFA Carson Spiers
18:48 AFL Recap: Alfredo Duno
27:21 Reds Awards Recap
29:23 TJ Antone Resigns
30:45 Taylor Ward Trade!?!?
33:59 DFA Targets?
38:30 Adolis Garcia on Trading Block
42:19 Pirates want to spend $$$
46:31 2026 Reds ZiPS projections
51:49 More Hunter Greene rumors
59:32 MLB & ESPN Deal
The guys also dive into the Arizona Fall League and the rapid rise of top prospect Alfredo Duno, react to Tejay Antone re-signing on a minor-league deal, and explore potential waiver pickups the Reds could target. Plus: Adolis García trade rumors, an early preview of the Reds’ 2026 ZiPS projections, the Pirates’ reported interest in Kyle Schwarber, and plenty more Reds news and analysis.
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Cincinnati Reds Offseason Outlook: Trades, Targets, and Key Decisions Ahead
The Cincinnati Reds enter one of their most important offseasons in recent memory — a winter that could define how quickly this young, talented roster transitions from potential to legitimate contention in 2026. After falling short of the postseason in 2025 despite flashes of brilliance from their core, the front office faces major decisions on trades, free agency, and player roles that will shape the future of Reds baseball.
Catcher Carousel: Ben Rortvedt Joins the Mix
The offseason started with an interesting move behind the plate. The Reds claimed Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, giving them another defensively solid, left-handed-hitting catcher to add to the mix. Rortvedt, known for his strong arm and framing ability, has never been a major offensive threat, but he brings toughness and experience to the position.
This move sparked immediate questions about the futures of Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino. Stephenson, once seen as the catcher of the future, has struggled to regain his early-career form both offensively and defensively. Trevino, who came over last offseason, was a steady presence behind the plate. Could one of them be traded to fill another roster hole? Many around baseball believe the Rortvedt move could be the first domino in a bigger plan.
Pitching Help: Devin Williams Rumors Heating Up
The biggest buzz around the Reds right now is the rumor linking them to Devin Williams, the Milwaukee Brewers’ All-Star closer. Williams has been one of baseball’s most dominant relievers over the past few years, posting elite strikeout numbers with his signature “Airbender” changeup.
For a Reds bullpen that was inconsistent in 2025, adding a shutdown closer like Williams could completely change the dynamic. It would also send a message that Cincinnati is serious about competing immediately. The price will be steep — likely a package centered around prospects or young major leaguers — but it’s the kind of bold move that could push the Reds toward playoff contention.
Could Byron Buxton Be a Fit?
Another intriguing rumor involves Byron Buxton, who might be available in trade talks with the Minnesota Twins. When healthy, Buxton is one of the most dynamic players in baseball — a Gold Glove center fielder with game-changing speed and power. The problem, of course, has been health.
For the Reds, the fit is complicated but fascinating. The team has a crowded outfield with TJ Friedl, Will Benson, Spencer Steer, and Jake Fraley, but none have Buxton’s elite upside. If Minnesota is willing to eat some salary or take a lighter return, Cincinnati could take a chance on a high-reward player who fits perfectly in Great American Ball Park.
Internal Growth Still the Key
While trades and free agency will dominate the headlines, the biggest factor in Cincinnati’s 2026 success might be the continued development of its young core. Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Spencer Steer give the Reds one of the most exciting infields in baseball. Each showed flashes of brilliance in 2025, but consistency and health will be the next steps.
The pitching staff also remains a work in progress. Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo showed frontline potential but battled ups and downs, while rookies like Rhett Lowder and Julian Aguiar could be ready for full-time roles next season. The Reds have the arms — now it’s about depth, durability, and adding a reliable veteran presence to stabilize the rotation.
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