The MLB offseason is winding down and, for the most part, the Cincinnati Reds stayed silent. With Spring Training 2023 less than 45 days away, the team has only made a few deals. They signed three minor league players, signed Wil Myers to a contract, and designated Mike Moustakas for assignment.
Wil Meyers
Wil Myers signed a one-year deal. The veteran gets a $6 million salary for 2023. It also includes a $12 million mutual option for 2024 and a $1.5 million buyout if either side declines the option. He can also earn additional money for plate appearances and would get a one-time $500,000 bonus if traded.
The move addresses their need for both an improved offense and an extra outfielder. Myers provides plenty of versatility, having started games at first base and all three outfield positions last season. However, injuries have been an issue.
Cincinnati Reds Want to Forget 2022
Everyone involved from the front office to Manager David Bell, his coaches, and even the fans want to forget about 2022. After trading away key players, the Reds lost 100 games and tied for last place in the NL Central. It was their poorest showing since the 1982 team.
Decimated by Injuries
Multiple injuries suffered by the Reds in 2022 share in the blame for the team winning only 62 games. The loss of Tejay Antone, Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Tony Santillan, and Lucas Sims, decimated the pitching staff. On top of that, varying injuries took out their leader, first baseman Joey Votto, second baseman Jonathan India, catcher Tyler Stephenson, and centerfielder Nick Senzel. All missed playing time with injuries and/or ended the year on the injured list, forcing the Reds to use unproven players into the starting lineup.
Needed to Upgrade Yet Stayed Silent
Coming off that terrible 2022 season in which the Reds ranked near the bottom of baseball in most offensive categories, it was no secret that the club needed to upgrade its production during this offseason.
Even though they are a rebuilding club that had slashed its payroll considerably, fans still expected them to sign a few veterans to provide an offensive boost while waiting for the prospects to arrive. The fans feel that ownership is more about saving money than winning. They don’t want to put up with another last-place finish in 2023.
Cincinnati Reds Farm System
The Cincinnati Reds stayed silent this offseason and have mentioned their want to rebuild and retool using their farm system. They also feel that all the players who missed significant playing time last year will be healthy. Although their farm system currently only has a few players who could be MLB-ready sooner rather than later, the team feels that they can be a .500 team this season with the mix of healthy players and their prospects.
If their injured players return healthy and ready to go and they get a good group of prospects ready, things could look good for the Reds. They have the talent. They just have to keep it healthy.
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