Reds Eyeing Suárez, Hays to Bolster Lineup - But TV Deal Uncertainty Puts Plans on Ice
The Cincinnati Reds are in the market for a big bat. That much is clear. But as the offseason rolls on, it’s not just free agent prices or roster fits slowing things down - it’s the uncertainty swirling around the team’s 2026 television deal that’s giving the front office pause.
The Reds have their sights on two familiar names: All-Star third baseman Eugenio Suárez and outfielder Austin Hays. Both would bring much-needed punch to a lineup that, as it stands, could use a little more thump in the middle. But here’s the holdup: until the Reds know how much revenue they can count on from their broadcast rights, they’re hesitant to open the checkbook.
Let’s start with Suárez. The fan favorite and three-time All-Star is coming off a monster season, launching 49 home runs and proving he still has elite power.
His market is heating up fast - with the Pirates and Mariners among the interested teams - and he’s expected to command close to $20 million annually. That’s a hefty price tag, but for a team that needs a middle-of-the-order threat, it’s the kind of deal that could change the complexion of the Reds’ offense overnight.
Then there’s Austin Hays. While not as flashy as Suárez, Hays is a solid contributor who would bring consistency and versatility to the outfield. He’s drawn interest from the Cardinals and is projected to land a deal in the $7 million per year range - a more affordable option, but still a meaningful addition.
The Reds’ interest in both players shows they’re serious about improving the lineup. But the financial picture is complicated.
President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall has said all offseason that the club’s payroll for 2026 will stay roughly in line with last year’s. That figure, according to FanGraphs, was about $119 million in 2025.
Right now, the Reds are sitting at around $112 million in commitments for the upcoming season - so there’s some room, but not a ton, especially if the TV money doesn’t come through.
And that’s where things get murky.
Main Street Sports, the Reds’ former broadcast partner, has a revised deal on the table. But there’s a catch - the offer hinges on the company finding a buyer.
If that falls through, Major League Baseball would likely step in to handle the Reds’ broadcasts in 2026. The issue?
MLB’s revenue-sharing model would likely bring in less cash for Cincinnati than a new deal with Main Street. That difference in revenue is what’s putting the brakes on any major spending.
So while the Reds’ reported interest in Suárez and Hays is encouraging - and signals that the front office knows where the roster needs help - the reality is that without clarity on the TV front, the team may be stuck in neutral. And with other clubs circling both players, the clock is ticking.
This is the kind of situation that tests a front office’s patience and creativity. The Reds have a promising young core, and adding a proven bat could accelerate their path back to contention. But right now, the business side of baseball is making the baseball side wait.
For Reds fans, it’s a frustrating limbo. The team has options.
The need is obvious. But until the TV deal gets sorted out, don’t expect Cincinnati to make any big splashes - no matter how tempting the waters look.