REPORT: Reds latest injury force Nick Krall to revisit his biggest offseason blunder
In a situation all too familiar to Reds fans, Cincinnati has been hit with a wave of injuries in recent weeks, putting the team’s season hopes in jeopardy.
Last year, setbacks for TJ Friedl and Matt McLain, along with Noelvi Marte’s suspension, left the Reds struggling. This time around, Andrew Abbott, Tyler Stephenson, and Spencer Steer have all suffered injuries that will sideline them for Opening Day.
Adding to the concerns, it was revealed on Tuesday that the Reds might also be without left fielder Austin Hays. The offseason acquisition sustained a calf injury and was absent from Cincinnati’s exhibition game at DayAir Ballpark. Hays, a former Baltimore Orioles All-Star, will be reevaluated on Wednesday, and his availability for Thursday’s season opener against the San Francisco Giants remains uncertain.
Austin Hays’ injury should force the Reds to revisit trade talks with White Sox for Luis Robert Jr.
If Hays is sidelined for any length of time, the Reds will have no choice but to insert Blake Dunn, Jacob Hurtubise, or Stuart Fairchild into the starting lineup. Even with Hays, Cincinnati’s outfield was seen as a major weakness. Without him, it resembles a unit more fitting for Triple-A than a contending MLB team.
Now is the time for Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall to make a call to Chicago White Sox GM Chris Getz. The two were already deep in trade talks this past offseason, nearly striking a deal that would have sent Luis Robert Jr. to Cincinnati in exchange for a package centered around Edwin Arroyo. Ultimately, the Reds backed away from the high asking price and instead signed Hays to a one-year, $4 million deal.
A 3-run BLAST for Luis Robert Jr. ‼️ pic.twitter.com/ToGsz4axX7
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) March 24, 2025
With Hays potentially missing time—or even if he’s available—the Reds need to revisit trade discussions with the White Sox. While Robert has some concerns, Cincinnati cannot afford to enter the season with their current outfield options. This team has the talent to be a factor in the National League, and Robert, who hit .300/.386/.580 with four home runs and eight RBI this spring, could be the impact bat they need.
Krall and the Reds must stop playing it safe. With Terry Francona leading the way and a core of young stars like Hunter Greene and Elly De La Cruz, now is the moment to correct past hesitations and make a bold move before Opening Day.