The offseason is still young, but the available options to fill the Cincinnati Reds‘ outfield, leadoff hitter and relief pitching needs have dwindled quickly. The question remains as to how, and even if, Walt Jocketty will address these needs.
News and Notes
The Reds have previously been rumored as a potential suitor for Denard Span. But, as Keith Law of ESPN reports, it’s the Washington Nationals that put the talent on the board that tickled the fancy of the Minnesota Twins.
Mark Sheldon of MLB.com seems to think that Michael Bourn, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino will all be out of Cincy‘s price range. You have to agree, though, there is no need for the Reds to lock themselves into an overpriced long-term contract. These players could be worth an over-priced one to two year contract though.
Many Reds fans felt that Drew Stubbs clone, B.J. Upton, could be a fit in Cincy—luckily the Reds didn’t make the same mistake that Atlanta did when they locked Upton up for 5 years, $75 million. It was this deal that Jason A. Churchill of ESPN.com believes has set the market for the remaining free-agent outfielders.
The Reds may have locked down their new closer in Jonathan Broxton when they signed him to a 3-year, $21 million deal. Broxton hasn’t officially been named the closer, but it is already being assumed as this article by Reds beat writer John Fay displays. Agree with the signing or not, we need to move forward because the deal is done.
The Reds may have passed on their best closer option, though, when they let Ryan Madson walk and sign with the L.A. Angels, as Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com reported. Madson‘s one-year contract would have been the better choice.
With the Winter Meetings on the horizon, Reds fans need to be hoping that Jocketty and crew can work some magic—things are getting tougher in a hurry.
You can follow Josh Ramsey on Twitter @JRamCincy
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