The Cincinnati Reds are welcoming back third baseman Eugenio Suárez, signing him to a one-year deal valued at $15 million, according to ESPN. This contract also includes a mutual option for the 2027 season. The team has yet to confirm the signing.
Suárez, now 34, had a notable tenure with the Reds from 2015 to 2021, highlighted by a remarkable 49-homer season in 2019. Last season, he played for both the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, posting a .228/.298/.526 line, including 49 home runs. His performance was significantly better before the trade, boasting an OPS of .897 compared to just .682 afterward, which may have impacted his free-agent market appeal.
Ranked as the 14th-best free agent this offseason, Suárez was the top offensive player left on the market entering February. His analysis reveals intriguing dynamics:
Suárez embodies a risk-reward profile at the plate. Known for his power hitting, which includes that impressive 49-homer season, he also draws walks. However, he struggles with high and inside pitches, which contributes to a high whiff and strikeout rate. As he approaches 35 in July, concerns about his defense and age will inevitably linger. If his bat cools down, his roster spot might quickly become uncertain. But for now, he should fit seamlessly into a lineup’s core.
Ke’Bryan Hayes, who is under contract for $36 million through 2028, stands out with his exceptional defensive skills at third base. This means Suárez will likely serve primarily as a designated hitter and could even see some time at first base, which might affect the playing time of incumbent first baseman Spencer Steer and top prospect Sal Stewart. It’s worth noting that all three are right-handed hitters.
Last season, the Reds squeaked into the playoffs, edging out the New York Mets in a tiebreaker. However, their offense often lacked punch, finishing 14th in runs and 21st in home runs—definitely room for improvement. Before acquiring Suárez, Cincinnati’s offensive enhancements this offseason were limited to platoon outfielders JJ Bleday and Dane Myers.
The Reds ended the previous season with an 83-79 record, their best since matching that same record in 2021. This marked their first postseason appearance since the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, and their first in a full 162-game slate since 2013.
