Overview

• The Reds’ postseason ended in a two-game Wild Card sweep by the Dodgers, shifting attention to immediate roster choices.
• Most core contributors are under team control through 2026, reducing the need for wholesale changes, according to The Sporting News.
• Key pitching decisions loom with pending free agents Nick Martinez, Emilio Pagan and Wade Miley; Pagan closed with 32 saves and a 2.88 ERA and may seek a larger deal, per FanSided.
• Analysis from Forbes underscores a need to add impact bats despite a solid rotation, with potential upgrades at first base, second base and designated hitter as Miguel Andujar hits free agency and Austin Hays’ $12 million mutual option remains uncertain.
• Outlets point to a tradeable surplus of starters and infielders—with FanSided floating Brady Singer as a candidate—while Forbes notes only about $60 million is committed for 2026 payroll and some coverage questions how much ownership will spend.