Three questions facing the Cincinnati Reds this offseason

The Cincinnati Reds were a pleasant surprise in 2025, posting an 83-79 record to capture the final wild-card spot. They hoped to build on that performance in 2026 and take the next step to solidify themselves as viable NL Central contenders.

Instead, the Reds took a step back. Injuries and ineffectiveness decimated the pitching staff. Although the Reds received an MVP-caliber season from shortstop Elly De La Cruz, the lineup could not overcome the shortcomings of the pitching staff to return to the postseason.

The Reds may be at a crossroads. While ownership has said that they are not interested in selling the franchise, they will likely need to spend to supplement the roster. Otherwise, the Reds will need internal improvements to take that next step and return to the postseason.

Three questions facing the Cincinnati Reds

1. Can Nick Lodolo replicate his 2025 season?

Lodolo had been a key part of the Reds' resurgence in 2025, performing at a top-of-the-rotation starter level. He posted a 3.33 ERA and a 1.097 WHIP over his 156.2 innings, striking out 156 batters with 31 walks. He was unable to replicate that season in 2026 as he posted a disappointing 4.97 ERA and a 1.482 WHIP over 108.2 innings as he battled blister issues throughout the season.

Lodolo changed the grip on his curveball in an attempt to avoid those blister concerns, but he had mixed results down the stretch. It is possible that a full offseason getting used to his new grip will allow Lodolo to return to the form he showed in 2025. The Reds will need him to do so if they are going to have a chance in a highly competitive division.

2. Can the Reds find the cash to extend shortstop Elly De La Cruz?

Although Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is expected to win the NL MVP award, De La Cruz had an MVP-caliber season in his own right. The Reds star posted a career-best .283/.365/.515 batting line in his 636 plate appearances, hitting 30 homers and 30 doubles while stealing 30 bases. 

De La Cruz is also about to get expensive for the Reds. He is set to go through the arbitration process for the first time and is projected to earn $7.9 million for 2027. While that is a bargain, it would also be the second largest contract on the Reds next season. If the Reds are going to build a sustainable contender, De La Cruz has to be a key part of that roster. This may be their last chance to lock him in to an affordable long-term deal.

3. How do the Reds address their offensive problems?

The Reds received impressive production from De La Cruz and first baseman Sal Stewart. However, the Reds were overly dependent on that duo, and the home run, for any offensive production. It is something that the front office is aware of as team president Nick Krall and general manager Brad Meador stated that they need to address a lineup that was one of the worst in the majors.

It may be as simple as finding players that fit the philosophy of hitting coach Chris Valaika. He has stressed a more contact-oriented approach, while the likes of third baseman Eugenio Suarez did not fit that style. The Reds could also use a table-setter to pair with De La Cruz atop the lineup to give their power hitters more opportunities with men on base. Ultimately, it comes down to how much ownership is willing to spend — unless they open the checkbook, the Reds will need to do a lot of bargain hunting to find improvements.