Matt’s Take: Reds optimism: BEWARE

By Matthew McAdow
HCP columnist

The Cincinnati Reds fire off three series’ wins in a row following the All-Star Break and all of a sudden, they put the Reds front office in a weird position.  

Well, some seem to believe so, but this team should still be selling as much as possible.
  
Unfortunately though, the Reds biggest trade piece, Spencer Steer, just suffered a brutal injury that takes away what could’ve been a big trade for the Redlegs. If Cincinnati comes out and wins this Guardians series and the Pirates series, it might be time to start scoreboard watching again.  

Well, for us who have Reds illness’ like myself that is. No matter what happens before the deadline, this team needs to improve going into next season.  

Where do things stand?

After 104 games, the Reds find themselves at 49-55, but just 5 games back from a playoff spot.  While there might be 5 teams in front of them looking for that final spot, they could get right back in the race if they can win 5 of their next 6 games.  

Wishful thinking, I know – but Reds fans have to do so if they want to stay intrigued – or at least I do.  

To put things into perspective, last years’ Reds squad that made the playoffs were 6 games over .500 this time last season. They finished 83-79 to barely squeeze into the playoffs over the Mets.  

I think the Reds are good enough to string together some victories, but to get back to 4 games over .500 or more by the end of the season is going to take some magic from the Reds. Do you believe?  

Hunter Greene

What would you do with Hunter Greene? As a Reds fan, I’d hate to see him go, as a 2027 1-2 punch of him and Burns would be electric – but at some point, you have to realize that his health is a major concern.  

I wouldn’t trade him for anything less than a haul, however, as the Reds need starting arms. If Lowder doesn’t pan out and if the Reds trade Singer, the Reds desperately need another top level arm. I don’t want prospects, as this team's window with Elly is dwindling.  If we even have baseball next season, next year is the time to go all-in. If not in 2027, then the Reds wasted away a once in a decade type of player that rarely finds themselves in a Reds uniform.  

Front Office Overhaul

Whether the Reds win enough to squeeze in the playoffs or if they drop to last place, it is clear that this organization is failing player development. Look at Encarnacion-Strand and the success he is having and every other player who leaves Cincinnati. Something is wrong here, Derek Johnson has been missing, and it’s more than time to overhaul coaching, front office management, and everyone in-between.  

I’m not excluding World Series Manager Terry Francona either. I’m tired of being excited for .500 baseball and tired of being called a small market. Win games and people will show up to the park.