Locked On Reds - Daily Podcast On The Cincinnati Reds

Can the Cincinnati Reds transform $34 million in offseason spending into a true playoff contender, or will Nick Krall stick to the old script? The conversation focused on three game-changing strategies: chasing a marquee free agent, spreading funds across starting pitching, outfield, and bullpen, or investing in young core talent like Sal Stewart with a long-term deal to reshape the franchise’s future.
Key themes included the challenges of upgrading every weakness—from catcher to relief—with limited cash, whether Tyler Stephenson’s departure signals broader shifts, and the potential upside of waiver pickups like Duncan Davitt and Paxton Schultz joining the bullpen mix. Is settling for short-term fixes smart, or should Cincinnati lock in its next superstar before the MLB landscape shifts? The Reds’ path forward will come down to savvy moves, tough trade-offs, and whether Krall is bold enough to redefine what success looks like in Cincinnati.
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Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com
BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/
- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter
00:00 Offseason Spending Strategies
10:00 Sal Stewart Extension Focus
17:56 Reds Bullpen Waiver Claims
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Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal offseason after declining options on Eugenio Suarez, Pierce Johnson, and Emilio Pagán—freeing up ~$40 million but leaving fans skeptical about ownership's willingness to spend. Is Nick Krall ready to invest in a contender, or are the Reds bracing for a low-budget year ahead of potential CBA turmoil?
The conversation spotlights Suarez’s declining power, Pagán’s risky bet on free agency, and the glaring closer vacancy with names like Graham Ashcraft, Tony Santillan, and Tejay Antone lacking durability. With Ke'Bryan Hayes’ contract looming large and bullpen depth a concern, can the Reds develop a sustainable post-lockout strategy, or is another offseason of cutbacks on the horizon? Get the honest evaluation on player moves, payroll speculation, and what it means for Elly De La Cruz, Sal Stewart, and the future of the franchise.
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com
BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/
- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter
00:00 Reds Decline Contract Options
12:41 Suarez Option Performance Debate
25:15 Reds Closer In-House Candidates
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Sal Stewart cements his case for National League Rookie of the Year as the Cincinnati Reds look toward a big offseason full of tough contract decisions. Can the Reds successfully build around Stewart?
The conversation focused on Stewart’s elite production, highlighting his 32 home runs, versatility across the diamond, and clutch hitting—even as fatigue set in during September. Key themes include projections for Stewart’s continued growth, the looming contract options for Emilio Pagán, Eugenio Suarez, and Pierce Johnson, and which MLB insiders fans should trust as Reds trade rumors swirl. Insights on strikeout concerns, lineup construction, and speculation about major trades—like the rumored Elly De La Cruz blockbuster—take center stage. Don’t miss this breakdown of the Reds’ offseason crossroads and what it means for 2027 and beyond.
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com
BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/
- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter
00:00 Sal Stewart Rookie Surge
09:10 Reds Contract Option Decisions
23:05 Offseason Rumor Source Guide
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Gameday Mens Health
Gameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at
https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
5-Hour ENERGY
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds face a franchise-defining crossroads as Joey Votto’s bold suggestion to trade Elly De La Cruz sparks heated debate. Can the Reds emulate the World Series champion Milwaukee Brewers by embracing risk and creative roster churn, or will sentimentality keep them stuck in neutral?
The conversation focused on the need for Nick Krall to act decisively, trade at peak value, and adapt a Rays- or Brewers-style model built on early player signings and calculated, sometimes painful moves. Key topics include the future of Tyler Stephenson, strategies for free agency amid an impending lockout, and whether Cincinnati can shed its risk-averse reputation. With rumors swirling about outfielders like Ian Happ and speculation around qualifying offers, is it time for Reds fans to let go of superstars and get attached to wins instead?
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com
BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/
- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter
00:00 Reds Must Emulate Brewers
12:34 Pre-Lockout Free Agency, Reds Outlook
21:08 Qualifying Offers, Offseason Moves
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Gameday Mens Health
Gameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at
https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
5-Hour ENERGY
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

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Cincinnati Reds’ offseason strategy raises tough questions: Was quantity over quality the right bullpen approach, and have outfield concerns really been addressed? The debate around Eugenio Suarez’s return, the value of platooning JJ Bleday and Dane Myers, and lingering doubts about Blake Dunn’s role set the stage for a high-stakes winter. Bob Castellini’s focus on home runs over wins continues to frustrate fans, as Geno’s $16 million option and Nick Krall’s team-building vision come under the microscope.
The conversation explores how the Reds might allocate a limited $20–30 million budget to fill major holes—in the rotation, bullpen, outfield, and behind the plate with Jose Trevino. Does overpaying for bullpen depth actually move the needle or just burn resources that could fuel a true playoff push? As the team faces pressure to upgrade key positions and hit on value signings, all eyes turn to Krall’s next moves and whether the front office can finally deliver the wins fans demand.
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com
BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/
- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter
00:00 Learning from Last Offseason
14:24 Assessing Reds Outfield Fixes
23:17 Overspend? In THIS Economy?
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Gameday Mens Health
Gameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at
https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
5-Hour ENERGY
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.