Locked On Reds - Daily Podcast On The Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds face tough roster decisions as Gavin Lux’s future hangs in the balance. Will the Reds invest nearly $5 million in Lux’s on-base skills, or turn to cheaper, younger talent like Tyler Callihan? Steve and Jeff go head-to-head on whether Lux deserves a contract, dissecting his value as a utility player and weighing the financial implications for a penny-pinching franchise.

FanGraphs surprises with bold WAR projections for Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain, forecasting breakout and bounce-back campaigns that could anchor the Reds’ lineup. The conversation heats up as trust in GM Nick Kr...

Cincinnati Reds spark controversy as Nick Krall’s comments raise new doubts about the team’s leadership. Did mismanaging Elly De La Cruz’s injury cost the Reds vital wins—and set a worrying precedent for Hunter Greene’s future? Steve and Jeff dissect Krall's surprising admissions, asking whether the Reds’ handling of star injuries like Hunter Greene and Elly De La Cruz reflects deeper issues inside the clubhouse.

Key topics include shocking statistical drops for Elly De La Cruz after his quad injury, a heated debate over trading Hunter Greene, and the Reds’ risky approach to pro...

Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal offseason with just $20 million to spend—can budget signings spark a playoff push? Steve and Jeff break down affordable free agent options like Rhys Hoskins to inject much-needed power into a struggling Reds lineup, while weighing the impact of one-year “prove it” deals over splashy signings. Should Nick Krall target bullpen arms such as Jalen Beeks and Kyle Finnegan instead of chasing big names like Kyle Schwarber?

The hosts unpack Cincinnati’s recent 40-man roster moves, spotlighting prospects Hector Rodriguez, Edwin Arroyo, and Leo Balcazar—and debate whether any could make a diff...

Cincinnati Reds' willingness to trade Hunter Greene is suddenly real, sending shockwaves through Reds Country. Steve and Jeff break down the growing trade rumors, fueled by Reds beat writer Mark Sheldon's revealing AMA and credible buzz from within the organization. With key voices in Cincinnati questioning Greene’s recovery efforts and leadership, is the Reds front office preparing for a blockbuster move to address offensive and bullpen holes?

The show also spotlights Sal Stewart, who tops Steamer’s 2026 rookie WRC+ projections, sparking optimism about his future role at first base. Can Stewart’s breakout boost the Red...

Terry Francona’s urgent approach lifts the Cincinnati Reds to a surprise playoff berth, sparking debate on his impact and deserved recognition. Can Francona’s management style overcome this roster’s glaring weaknesses, and does he deserve more credit for the Reds’ September turnaround? The Reds team MVP debate heats up as Elly De La Cruz, Tony Santillan, and Andrew Abbott vie for top honors, but do any truly stand out?

Steve and Jeff break down the meaning behind the Manager of the Year award, comparing Francona’s second-place finish to Pat Murphy and revealing what it tak...

Cincinnati Reds spark fan frustration as the front office stalls on bold offseason moves—will a lack of urgency cost them in 2026? Steve and Jeff break down Nick Krall's cautious approach in the free agent and trade markets, raising questions about whether the Reds are poised to seize their competitive window or settle for roster leftovers. Hot rumors swirl around Pete Alonso, Devin Williams, and Justin Turner, but skepticism remains about the team's willingness to land impact bats.

Spencer Steer’s role shifts back to super utility as the Reds set sights on a new first...

Hunter Greene trade rumors swirl as the Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal roster question. Jeff and Steve dissect the implications of Nick Krall’s noncommittal stance on Greene’s future and challenge whether moving their prized homegrown ace would undermine the team’s long-term strategy. Are the Reds truly prepared to shift from their "draft, develop, and retain" philosophy, or is this just GM posturing fueling offseason speculation?

The show also spotlights the Reds' aggressive pursuit of bullpen upgrades, including interest in top free agent Devin Williams. With fresh questions swirling about Tyler Stephenson’s future af...

Brandon Phillips is virtually guaranteed a spot in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, but who else from this year’s ballot truly deserves enshrinement? Steve and Jeff debate the merits of Aaron Harang, Homer Bailey, Zach Cozart, and Francisco Cordero, spotlighting Phillips’ elite glove, power numbers, and signature moments in Reds history. The hosts analyze Hall of Fame criteria—should iconic single-game achievements, like Bailey’s two no-hitters, stack up to overall career contributions?

Looking ahead, the future of Cincinnati’s Hall looks bright as Steve and Jeff spotlight current Reds such as Elly De La Cruz...

Cincinnati Bearcats face a must-win showdown as Arizona rolls into town. Brendan Sorsby faces his ultimate test and Scott Sattefield has a decision to make with the game plan—will Tyree Walker and Evan Pryor ignite the ground game against the Wildcats’ tough secondary? Jeff Carr and Chad Brendel break down the critical matchup, spotlighting Sorsby’s challenge against sticky man-to-man coverage and the potential for young running backs like Zion Johnson to make an impact. The discussion covers defensive opportunities, special teams concerns after the Utah game, and whether Cincinnati can maintain clean play to stay in Big 12 Champi...

Cincinnati Reds face mounting Hunter Greene trade rumors as reporters propose blockbuster deals—could All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte headline a stunning swap? Jeff and Steve dissect the latest speculation, spotlighting Major League Baseball’s growing interest in Greene and questioning whether Nick Krall’s front office could be persuaded to move the young ace despite his long-term team control through 2029.

Kyle Schwarber’s potential fit in Cincinnati gets a creative twist, with deferred money contracts on the table. The hosts debate aggressive offseason strategies that challenge the Reds’ small-market status quo, urging bold roster upgrades af...

Cincinnati Reds rumors heat up around a potential blockbuster signing of Kyle Schwarber. Could the Queen City finally land its hometown slugger? Jeff and Steve weigh the significance of Schwarber's ties to Middletown, recent free agent talks, and his fit as the Reds’ next power-hitting DH. Team finances, ownership hesitations, and the looming CBA negotiations threaten to derail hopes for a transformative deal.

Key topics include the financial hurdles facing Nick Krall, the history of Reds’ big-money contracts with names like Mike Moustakas and Jeimer Candelario, and how landing Schwarber might impact future roster flexibility. Is th...

Cincinnati Reds ramp up their offseason strategy by declining options on Austin Hays, Scott Barlow, and Brent Suter, giving GM Nick Krall fresh payroll flexibility—will this finally land the team a marquee outfield bat? Hot stove season heats up as Steve and Jeff debate the wisdom of recent roster moves, the future of Brent Suter in Cincinnati, and whether Connor Phillips has what it takes to anchor the bullpen in 2026.

Key topics include the Reds’ evolving arbitration picture, possible trades involving Brady Singer and Gavin Lux, and the impact of newcomers like Keegan Thompson. The h...

Cincinnati Reds fans brace for another turbulent offseason as the front office signals no change to payroll for 2026. Can the Reds compete for a division title without opening the checkbook? Hosts Jeff and Tim Daniel tackle Nick Krall’s statement, explore potential trades involving names like Brady Singer and Gavin Lux, and weigh creative ways to build a contender on a tight budget. Key questions include the future impact of power hitters, the likelihood of adding stars like Kyle Schwarber, and whether ownership’s approach undermines the team’s momentum after a gritty playoff run.

The con...

Cincinnati Reds face uncertainty in center field as TJ Friedl’s defensive metrics raise fresh questions—should fans expect a lineup shakeup in 2026? Is Friedl’s everyday spot a given, or could a power-hitting upgrade shift him to a platoon or left field?

Jeff and Steve scrutinize Friedl’s offensive trends, discuss the outfield’s ongoing struggles, and debate strategies for boosting production. Coaching staff updates—including Willie Harris joining as third base coach and Bill Hasselman as catching coach—reveal new dynamics on the field and around the diamond. Insights on Reds prospect Rhett Lowder, Arizona...

The Cincinnati Reds face critical offseason decisions as player options and free agency loom. Should the team bring back Austin Hays at $12 million, or let him walk after an injury-plagued season that produced barely above league-average results? Relief pitchers Scott Barlow and Brent Suter have club options worth considering, while closer Emilio Pagán enters free agency after a strong 32-save campaign.

Jeff Carr and Steven Offenbaker analyze each decision, making a compelling case for Miguel Andújar as the perfect fourth outfielder after his impressive .359/.400/.544 slash line in 34 games with Cincinnati. The hosts also debate Ke'Bryan Ha...

The Cincinnati Reds finally made the playoffs in 2025 for a brief cup of espresso. Nick Krall must give Terry Francona the necessary pieces in order to ensure that isn't the best thing to happen to the Reds during the tenure of Elly De La Cruz. Breakout performances are nice, but betting on Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, and Spencer Steer to all breakout while not addressing the needs of this roster would be a crime. The Reds need power in the lineup and another outfielder before we can feel good about the Reds taking advantage of this window of contention...

The Cincinnati Reds face critical decisions about three key players heading into 2026. Matt McLain's disappointing 2025 season (.220 BA, 0.0 WAR) following shoulder surgery has fans concerned, but his elite late-season peripherals—including a 44.4% hard hit rate versus 37% league average—suggest a bounce-back is coming. Ke'Bryan Hayes presents a fascinating dilemma: his Gold Glove defense and 1.4 WAR justify his $7 million salary, but his offensive struggles (78 OPS+ in 2025) create a lineup black hole through 2029. Graham Ashcraft's 3.99 ERA masks elite performance, with his 2.72 FIP, 99th percentile exit velocity, and league-best 38% chase rate indicating he was victimized by a .342 BABIP and poor defensive support.

Je...

The Cincinnati Reds' 2025 season reached the postseason, but what drove that success and what does it mean for the future? Terry Francona's first year as manager brought a laser-focused, day-to-day mentality that helped the team win crucial September games, a stark contrast to previous managers who would sacrifice today's game for tomorrow's bullpen availability. The hosts examine whether David Bell could have achieved the same results and credit Francona with approximately six additional wins despite notable mistakes with Ian Gibaut and Miguel Andújar.

Jeff and Steve grade GM Nick Krall's performance at C-plus to B...

The Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal decision regarding Hunter Greene's future. Could trading the young ace actually benefit the team? Steven Offenbaker and Jeff Carr analyze the potential impact on the rotation, exploring how Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, Chase Burns, and Rhett Lowder could step up. They dissect Nick Krall's front office strategy, comparing it to the Tampa Bay Rays' model of sustained competitiveness. The hosts also provide updates on Rhett Lowder's impressive Arizona Fall League performance. Is Krall's approach the right path for long-term success? Get the full scoop on Greene's trade value and the Reds' organizational philosophy...

The Cincinnati Reds face crucial decisions as trade rumors swirl around Hunter Greene. There are reasons you have to really squint hard to see for Greene to be traded. Jeff and Steve analyze the implications of trading Greene, exploring the "Tampa model" of flipping high-value players. The hosts dissect Elly De La Cruz's position dilemma, questioning why he played all 162 games despite not being fully healthy. Scott Boras's influence on De La Cruz's situation and the team's strategy comes under scrutiny. With the offseason approaching, the podcast examines Cincinnati's priorities, emphasizing the need for bullpen reinforcement and a middle-of-the-order...

World Series Showdown: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays - Who Will Reign Supreme?

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays face off in an unexpected World Series matchup. Can the Blue Jays' complete team challenge the Dodgers' powerhouse lineup? Key discussions include team strengths, payroll disparities, and the impact of high-spending franchises on MLB. The hosts analyze starting pitching, bullpen strategies, and offer bold predictions for the series outcome. Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. take center stage as potential game-changers.

Tune in for expert insights on this thrilling Wo...

The Cincinnati Reds face pivotal decisions as trade rumors swirl around Hunter Greene. Is trading the young ace a smart move? Jeff Carr and Lance McAlister dissect Greene's team-friendly contract and potential, questioning the logic behind moving such a promising pitcher. The duo explores Elly De La Cruz's future at shortstop, debating patience versus positional change. They critically examine the Reds' organizational strategy, roster construction, and front office decision-making. Can fans trust GM Nick Krall to make the right moves? Discover what offseason acquisitions could elevate Cincinnati beyond another 83-win season. Get the full scoop on the Reds' crucial...

The Cincinnati Reds' quest for a clutch hitter takes center stage as Jeff Carr and Mo Egger dissect the team's offensive struggles. They analyze potential free agent targets like Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso, while acknowledging the franchise's historical reluctance to make big signings. The conversation shifts to player development, with Sal Stewart's power potential and Elly De La Cruz's defensive challenges at shortstop under scrutiny. Terry Francona's and Nick Krall's management decisions, particularly regarding De La Cruz's playing time and position, face critical examination. Can the Reds make the leap from fringe playoff contenders to legitimate World Series...

The Cincinnati Reds' offseason strategy takes center stage as trade rumors swirl around Hunter Greene. Jeff Carr and Tim Daniel dissect why Greene is unlikely to be dealt, citing the gap between his value and potential offers. They explore realistic free agent targets like Rhys Hoskins and Max Kepler, emphasizing complementary moves over blockbuster signings. The hosts analyze Matt McLain's potential bounce-back, Tyler Stephenson's future, and Nick Lodolo's breakout prospects for 2026. Get the inside scoop on the Reds' roster moves and player projections – listen now to stay ahead of the hot stove action!

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The Cincinnati Reds face crucial offseason decisions as Nick Krall should opt against extending qualifying offers. Nick Martinez's performance decline and $21 million gamble are scrutinized, with Jeff Carr analyzing his diminished strikeout rate and increased home run vulnerability. Base running strategy shifts dramatically, dropping from 305 stolen base attempts in 2024 to just 105 in 2025. Carr questions this conservative approach and its impact on JR House's departure to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Will the Cincinnati Reds add power to compensate for reduced aggression on the basepaths? Get the full scoop on the team's offseason strategy and potential roster moves in this insightful analysis!<...

The Cincinnati Reds' trade rumors heat up as Hunter Greene's name surfaces in potential deals. Jeff Carr and Gabby Maljanian analyze Greene's impressive 4.4 WAR in just 19 starts last season, weighing his talent against injury concerns. Brady Singer emerges as a more realistic trade target, offering the consistency both teams crave. Red Sox outfielders Jarren Duran and Willy Abreu are dissected as potential fits for Cincinnati's needs. The hosts explore how these moves could shape both teams' World Series aspirations, with a focus on building a contender for 2026. Get the inside scoop on potential roster shakeups and opening day predictions – tu...

The Cincinnati Reds face crucial decisions about Tyler Stephenson's future. Is the talented catcher worth extending or trading? Jeff Carr and Steven Offenbaker analyze Stephenson's offensive production, trade value, and importance to the team. They explore José Treviño's role as backup and dissect the Reds' catching prospects, focusing on Alfredo Duno's potential. Will Duno be the long-term solution behind the plate sooner rather than later? Get the full scoop on the Cincinnati Reds' catching situation and its impact on the team's future – listen now!

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The Cincinnati Reds' outfield for 2026 takes shape with Noelvi Marte's surprising shift to right field. His offensive stats (.263/.300/.448 with 14 home runs) and defensive potential spark optimism for the future. Jeff and Steve analyze TJ Friedl's role in center field and explore left field options, emphasizing the need for a power hitter. The hosts dissect the team's dismal 3-12 record in extra innings during 2025, questioning offensive strategies and the impact on playoff positioning. Could more bunting have changed the outcome? Uncover the full analysis of the Cincinnati Reds' outfield plans and extra-inning struggles – listen now to gain crucial insights into th...

Could Hunter Greene be available to trade for as the Cincinnati Reds have a surplus of starting pitchers? Steven Offenbaker and Jeff Carr analyze potential moves, including the Reds pitcher they'd actually trade. They explore Nick Krall's non-committal stance on trades and project the Reds' 2026 rotation, featuring promising prospects like Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder. Could moving a starting pitcher address the Reds team needs while maintaining pitching depth? Discover how the Reds' "pitching factory" strategy impacts their trade considerations and long-term plans. Get the inside scoop on Cincinnati's pitching development and trade strategies – listen now to shape your Re...

The Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal decision: Should Elly De La Cruz move from shortstop to center field? Jeff Carr and Steve Offenbaker dissect De La Cruz's defensive struggles, starting with his league-leading error counts in 2024 and 2025 and expanding to the bigger picture of mediocrity. They explore the potential benefits of shifting him to center field, drawing parallels to Fernando Tatis Jr.'s successful outfield transition. The hosts analyze roster implications, discussing how this move could impact Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, and Sal Stewart's positions. They also critique General Manager Nick Krall's dismissal of the idea, emphasizing the need...

The Cincinnati Reds' offseason strategy takes center stage as the team should be seeking a power hitter to boost their lineup. Budget constraints and potential free agent targets are analyzed, with Tyler O'Neill, Marcelo Ozuna, and Rhys Hoskins emerging as realistic options. Steven Offenbaker and Jeff Carr explore creative roster moves to free up funds, including possible cuts like Will Benson and Ian Gibaut. They dissect projected stats for potential acquisitions and debate Tyler Stephenson's future with the team. Get the inside scoop on the Reds' offseason plans – listen now to shape your expectations for the 2024 season!

The Cincinnati Reds face crucial defensive decisions for 2026. Elly De La Cruz remains at shortstop despite leading in errors, while TJ Friedl's center field backup plan raises questions. Host Jeff Carr analyzes Tyler Stephenson's contract situation and explores corner infield options, including Spencer Steer, Sal Stewart, and Ke'Bryan Hayes. Carr examines potential lineup changes, defensive improvements, and offseason moves needed to capitalize on the team's potential. Get the inside scoop on the Reds' defensive strategy and roster plans – listen now to shape your expectations for the upcoming season!

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The Cincinnati Reds' bullpen faces a crucial overhaul for 2026. Steven Offenbaker and Jeff Carr analyze the 2025 performance, highlighting the unit's mid-tier ranking and inconsistent results. They explore potential changes, including Emilio Pagán's likely departure and Tony Santillan's possible ascension to closer. The hosts debate in-house options, discussing Graham Ashcraft's untapped potential and the futures of Brandon Williamson and Chase Petty. They also speculate on Brady Singer's trade value and the need for left-handed relievers. Get the inside scoop on the Cincinnati Reds' pitching strategy and roster construction for 2026 – listen now to shape your expectations for next season!

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The Cincinnati Reds' offensive woes in 2025 take center stage as Jeff Carr and Steve Offenbaker dissect the team's disappointing performance. Analyzing key players like Elly De La Cruz and Christian Encarnacion-Strand, they explore why the Reds' bet on young talent didn't pay off. The hosts dive into individual struggles, including Matt McLain's unexpected zero WAR season and TJ Friedl's relative success.

General Manager Nick Krall's offseason strategy comes under scrutiny as Jeff and Steve interpret his recent statements. They weigh potential roster moves, internal solutions like Cam Collier's promotion, and the future roles of Miguel Andújar a...

The Cincinnati Reds' stellar pitching propelled them to postseason contention in 2025. Jeff Carr breaks down the remarkable performance of the starting rotation, featuring Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott. Discover how the Reds' pitching philosophy, emphasizing fly balls and limiting hard contact, contradicts traditional wisdom but yields impressive results. Carr explores potential trade scenarios, including the possibility of moving Brady Singer or Nick Lodolo to strengthen other areas of the team. Get insights into the Reds' offseason strategy and the development of homegrown pitching talent under Derek Johnson and Nick Krall. Uncover why this Cincinnati Reds starting pitching...

The Locked on MLB Squad dissects the thrilling Wild Card round, spotlighting Cam Schlittler's dominant performance and the New York Yankees' unexpected success. They analyze crucial pitching decisions, debating the merits of modern bullpen management versus traditional strategies. They offer predictions for the Divisional Series, focusing on the Philadelphia Phillies-Los Angeles Dodgers and Yankees-Toronto Blue Jays matchups.

The hosts also challenge the "championship or bust" mentality, exploring the value of the entire MLB season beyond October glory. Tune in for expert insights on how analytics and gut instincts shape postseason baseball strategy.

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The Cincinnati Reds' Wild Card elimination sparks intense debate on Locked On Reds. Jeff Carr and Steve Offenbaker dissect the pitching collapse against the Dodgers, questioning Terry Francona's decisions. They analyze Sal Stewart's promising playoff performance and Hunter Greene's limited role. Looking ahead, the hosts explore offseason priorities, including power hitting additions and defensive improvements. Will Nick Krall address these needs? How will Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer factor into 2026 plans? Get the full scoop on the Reds' playoff exit and future outlook – listen now!

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The Cincinnati Reds’ 2025 season came to an end with a tough loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, as they fell after giving up eight unanswered runs. Cincinnati jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, but a series of costly mistakes opened the door for the defending champions to take control. Despite flashes of resilience, the Reds couldn’t recover and saw their postseason hopes dashed once again. Still, the young roster showed significant growth throughout the year, offering plenty of promise for 2026 and beyond.

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Cincinnati Reds face elimination after Hunter Greene's playoff meltdown. Can they bounce back against the Los Angeles Dodgers? Steven Offenbaker and Jeff Carr break down the Reds' disappointing Game 1 loss, analyzing Greene's struggles and the team's late-game resilience. They strategize for a must-win Game 2, debating lineup changes and pitching options to counter the Dodgers' high-powered offense. The hosts explore historical wild card series comebacks and discuss the electric atmosphere at Dodger Stadium. Will Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo's combined efforts be enough to keep the Reds' postseason hopes alive? Tune in for expert analysis and bold predictions as Cincinnati fights...

The Cincinnati Reds dropped Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, falling 10-5 at Dodger Stadium. Cincinnati looked overmatched for much of the night against the defending champions, who built a commanding lead early. The Reds did show some late fight, stringing together quality at-bats in the eighth inning to push across three runs against the Dodgers bullpen, but the deficit was too great to overcome. Now the Reds face a win-or-go-home scenario in Game 2, with their 2025 season hanging in the balance.

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