Earlier this week, the Cincinnati Reds traded for infielder Gavin Lux from the Los Angeles Dodgers, but their roster still has a glaring need. Many Reds fans have spent the offseason calling for the team to add a right-handed hitting outfielder, yet no moves have been made to address this issue.
Meanwhile, one of the Reds’ NL Central rivals might be closing in on a potential outfield addition that could have been a great fit in Cincinnati’s lineup. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly considering signing free-agent outfielder Randal Grichuk. The Pirates have also been linked to former New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo.
Pirates threaten to steal Randal Grichuk from the Reds
Randal Grichuk would be an ideal addition to the Reds’ roster. With Gavin Lux already giving new manager Terry Francona flexibility to rotate the infield based on pitching matchups, adding Grichuk would bring similar versatility to the outfield.
Currently, the Reds have around six “everyday” players: Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, Tyler Stephenson, Jeimer Candelario, and TJ Friedl are expected to feature in nearly every game. However, players like Lux, Jake Fraley, and Santiago Espinal might benefit from a more selective approach, being used when matchups favor their strengths.
Meanwhile, the Pirates are exploring outfield options, with Grichuk reportedly among their targets. Pittsburgh is also interested in Alex Verdugo, as noted by @ByRobertMurray and confirmed by Mark Feinsand.
Grichuk’s platoon potential makes him an excellent fit for the Reds. Last season with the Diamondbacks, Grichuk posted a stellar .319/.386/.528 slash line against left-handed pitching. Pairing him with Fraley, who has a career .264/.347/.440 line against right-handers, would create a formidable right-field tandem for Cincinnati.
As the free-agent market thins, the Reds have made some offseason moves but still need another addition to solidify their outfield and bolster their chances for the NL Central title in 2025. While they won’t outspend teams like the Dodgers or Yankees, Cincinnati cannot afford to lose Grichuk to a small-market rival like Pittsburgh. It’s time for Nick Krall and the Reds to step into the negotiations and secure Grichuk’s services.
Be the first to comment