Breaking News: Reds cut ties with 3 players by declining contract options
The Cincinnati Reds’ organization got a little lighter on Wednesday.
The Reds declined contract options on three different MLB contributors, sending them into free agency rather than keeping them aboard.
Cincy announced the following three moves Wednesday afternoon:
Declining the club option on left-handed pitcher Brent Suter
Declining the club option on right-handed pitcher Scott Barlow
Declining the mutual option on outfielder Austin Hays
On paper, Hays may be the biggest surprise. He just batted .266 with 15 home runs and remains an impressive batter against left-handed pitching. At 30 years old, Hays is a guy the Reds could still choose to pursue for less money, if they desire, but the outfield in Cincinnati has the potential to be quite crowded.
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Suter is a 36-year old journeyman left-hander who throws among the slowest pitchers in baseball. In 48 appearances in 2025, Suter had a 4.52 ERA. He can likely get another small contract somewhere if he chooses to keep playing, but it won’t be major.
Barlow is a 32-year old righty who pitched in 75 games for the Reds in 2025 and had a 4.21 ERA. His consistent availability will make him a nice middle relief addition somewhere for next season.
The Reds don’t have a ton of roster holes this offseason, as they retain most of their key pieces. But they’ll likely get involved in the pitching market with these relievers and a few other arms heading into free agency.
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