Locked On Reds - Daily Podcast On The Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal offseason—will Nick Krall seize the chance to transform the roster or settle for another year on the margins? With over $40 million in potential spending power, the debate heats up: make a splash or build depth through smart, multi-faceted signings across the rotation and lineup?

The conversation focused on possible additions like Dustin May, Michael Soroka, and Nathaniel Lowe, examining their fit alongside key pieces like Spencer Steer, JJ Bleday, Sal Stewart, and Elly De La Cruz. The impact of metrics like Stuff+ on pitcher evaluation, defensive trade-offs in the outfield, and the importance of moving quickly in free agency all come to the fore. Can the Reds finally build a roster that takes the pressure off players like Matt McLain and Blake Dunn? The path to a playoff run hinges on aggressive moves and strategic upgrades—will Cincinnati deliver?

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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 Pitching Priorities

11:28 Lineup Upgrades Options

22:21 Putting the Whole Plan Together

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Odoo
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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)

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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

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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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.

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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 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)

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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.

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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 Sal Stewart Rookie Surge
09:10 Reds Contract Option Decisions
23:05 Offseason Rumor Source Guide

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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?

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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 Reds Must Emulate Brewers
12:34 Pre-Lockout Free Agency, Reds Outlook
21:08 Qualifying Offers, Offseason Moves

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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.

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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 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

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Cincinnati Reds’ starting rotation woes threaten their 2027 campaign, but could a resurgence be on the horizon? With Hunter Greene sidelined and Brady Singer likely gone, the Reds face pressing questions around Andrew Abbott’s conditioning, Nick Lodolo’s persistent blister issue, and whether Brandon Williamson or Rhett Lowder can seize a rotation spot. Can internal improvements and a strategic pitching coach hire reinvent this once-deep staff?

The conversation focused on the dramatic jump in ERA and walk rates, the lasting impact of Derek Johnson’s departure, and how the Reds should approach free agency—would a proven workhorse like Joe Ryan or rolling the dice on Singer at a lower price fix the problem? Key discussion points include Chase Burns as the lone sure thing, bullpen overuse, and whether the front office will act boldly or lean on “hope” for bounce-backs. Are the days of relying on just five starters officially over?

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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 Rotation Collapse & 2027 Outlook
10:28 Abbott & Lodolo Fixes
19:55 Rotation Solutions & Free Agency

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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Can the Cincinnati Reds fix what’s broken and get back into contention next year? In this episode, we break down what it will actually take to turn things around, and why this is more than a one-offseason project.
We start with the core question: is a return to contention realistic for 2027, and what has to go right for it to happen?
Then we look at why this may take more than one offseason. Roster holes, payroll decisions, and player development timelines don’t get solved in a single winter, and we walk through where the Reds’ biggest gaps are.
We also take a closer look at the 2026 World Series matchup between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Tampa Bay Rays. Both are small-market teams that have built winners through drafting, trades, and player development, with no big-market spending. If you’re a Reds fan, that should sting a little. The Reds have the resources and the talent base to copy this model, so why haven’t they? We break down what the Brewers and Rays are doing and how Cincinnati can replicate it.
Finally, our World Series predictions. [Brewers in 6] is our pick. Brewers-Rays odds opened with Milwaukee as the favorite, and the Brewers’ 103 regular-season wins give them home-field advantage. Let us know your pick in the comments.

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

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

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.

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.  

LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

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’ pitching future could hinge on a bold move: will Terry Francona’s connection help land Carl Willis as the next pitching coach? With five Cy Young winners developed under his watch, Willis would be the top candidate to revitalize a Reds staff plagued by walks and underperformance in 2026. Jeff Carr spotlights the urgent need for pitching leadership and examines how Willis’ philosophy could mesh with Nick Krall’s run prevention mandate.

Meanwhile, the hype builds for Sal Stewart, as he captures Sporting News NL Rookie of the Year honors—are 32 homers and 111 RBIs enough to silence the critics? Plus, prospect Luke Holman rockets up the Reds’ radar after dominating in the Arizona Fall League. Can Holman become the next breakout arm with his new splitter drawing national attention? Locked On Reds breaks down roster moves, prospect buzz, and why strong coaching could define Cincinnati’s 2027 outlook.

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00:00 Carl Willis - Next Reds Pitching Coach?
10:10 Sal Stewart Rookie of Year?
22:44 Luke Holman Prospect Hype

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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 risk disappointment as front office eyes "familiar faces" and mid-tier moves instead of bold upgrades. Will Nick Krall’s pursuit of Nick Martinez actually move the needle, or are Reds fans in for another season of “run it back” strategy and budget limitations?

Jeff and Steve break down the Reds’ likely offseason path, from the real possibility of standing pat in the outfield to overpaying for aging relievers and considering reunions with Jonathan India and Tyler Mahle. They question whether upgrades at catcher and pitching are realistic given ownership’s track record, and debate the critical need for leadership changes in the organization—especially with Derek Johnson gone. What should Reds fans expect: progress or more of the same? Get the sharpest insight on Cincinnati’s front office conundrum and off-field battles shaping the future of the Reds’ roster.

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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 Reds Offseason Predictions
10:22 Reds Reunion Candidates
19:37 Organizational Changes Needed

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

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.

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.  

LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

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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