The Cincinnati Reds have agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal with third baseman Eugenio Suárez, with a mutual option for 2027, marking the return of the 34-year-old to the team where he enjoyed his greatest success. Suárez played for Cincinnati from 2015 to 2021, highlighted by a 49-home run season in 2019. Last year, he split time between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, hitting .228/.298/.526 with 49 homers, showing a noticeable drop in performance after the trade.
Suárez, ranked as the 14th-best free agent this offseason, is known for his power and ability to draw walks, posting strong exit velocity and low whiff and strikeout rates compared with other hitters. However, concerns about his age, defensive limitations, and right-handed hitting may temper expectations.
Eugenio Suárez (MLB)Suárez to Provide Veteran Power, DH Role, And Boost Cincinnati’s Offense Significantly
While his bat can carry a team, Suárez’s playing time at third base is limited due to Ke’Bryan Hayes, one of baseball’s top defensive third basemen under contract through 2028. Suárez is expected to primarily serve as a designated hitter and occasionally at first base, potentially reducing time for Spencer Steer and top prospect Sal Stewart.
The addition of Suárez aims to address Cincinnati’s offensive inconsistencies. Last season, the Reds finished 14th in runs and 21st in home runs, managing to secure a postseason spot via tiebreaker over the New York Mets. With only platoon outfielders JJ Bleday and Dane Myers added this offseason, Suárez represents the most significant power addition for a lineup that struggled to consistently produce.
Cincinnati’s 83-79 record last year marked their best since 2021, their first postseason berth in a full 162-game season since 2013, and a return to contention. Suárez’s return is expected to provide veteran presence and middle-of-lineup power to push the Reds deeper into the playoffs.
