The Cincinnati Reds have been quietly piecing together a solid offseason, but there’s still a sense that they’re one impact bat away from really rounding out the roster. They made a run at bringing Kyle Schwarber back home to Ohio-a move that would’ve added both power and a local storyline-but came up short.
Now, attention has turned to a familiar face: Miguel Andújar. According to recent reports, the Reds are still in the mix to bring back the slugger they acquired at last year’s trade deadline. Andújar is currently a free agent, and while nothing’s imminent, Cincinnati appears to be keeping the door open for a reunion.
Andújar made a strong impression in his short stint with the Reds, flashing the kind of offensive upside that made him a hot name earlier in his career. He’s not the same player who once finished runner-up for AL Rookie of the Year, but there’s still juice in the bat-and for a team like the Reds, looking to add depth and pop to the lineup, he could be a savvy addition.
The Reds aren’t the only ones interested. Reports list the Padres, Cardinals, Cubs, Rangers, and even the A’s-his team before last summer’s trade-as other potential suitors. That kind of competition suggests the market for Andújar is more active than you might expect for a player who’s bounced around in recent seasons.
For Cincinnati, the interest makes sense. They’ve made strides this winter, but the lineup could still use another right-handed bat with some thump.
Andújar fits that mold. He’s not a perfect player-defense and consistency have been issues-but he brings a level of offensive potential that could pay off in the right situation.
If the Reds can land him on a team-friendly deal, it could be the kind of under-the-radar move that ends up making a real difference.