BREAKING: Reds set to gift new manager with $71 million slugger in free agency

The Cincinnati Reds are signalling their intent to return to the top of the National League Central by making bold moves this offseason. After luring celebrated manager Terry Francona out of retirement, the Reds are now reportedly in the mix for one of the winter’s top free agents, outfielder.

Andy McCullough of The Athletic has identified the Reds as a leading contender to sign Hernández, who had a stellar 2024 campaign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Hernández, now a free agent, hit .272 with 33 home runs and 99 RBIs during the regular season and added three homers, 12 RBIs, and eight runs scored during the Dodgers’ postseason run to their first full-season World Series title since 1988.

The nine-year MLB veteran and two-time Silver Slugger award winner is coming off a one-year, $23.5 million deal with the Dodgers. Spotrac projects his market value at a three-year contract worth over $71 million, though competition for his services could drive the price higher.

Hernández, 32, has built a reputation as a consistent offensive force. Over six seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, he tallied 129 home runs, 369 RBIs, and a .263 batting average. Following a strong 2023 season with the Seattle Mariners, he joined the Dodgers, further solidifying his value with another productive year.

For the Reds, adding Hernández could be a transformative move, providing them with a proven power hitter to help them compete against divisional rivals like the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers. Such a signing would underline Cincinnati’s determination to contend in the NL Central.