This offseason, the Cincinnati Reds have been somewhat active, but there’s been more sizzle than steak. Cincinnati was linked to infielder Gleyber Torres at one point, but he eventually signed with the Detroit Tigers. While there was a little bit of disappointment, that should not shut the door to the potential the club pursuing another infielder.
As it stands, the Reds are clearly not confident with their infield heading into the 2025 season. Perhaps it’s time to welcome back a familiar face. Jose Iglesias, currently a free agent after a successful run with the New York Mets in 2024, might just be the perfect fit.
Reds’ interest in Gleyber Torres could spur reunion with Jose Iglesias
A certified fan favorite on and off the field, Iglesias would check off a few boxes for the Reds. He’s a tremendous fielder, and he recorded the greatest defensive season of his career back in 2019 with Cincinnati, registering 14 outs above average (OAA) and five defensive runs saved (DRS).
Iglesias will be 35 years old heading into the upcoming season, but he can still also get the job done at the plate. Last season with the Mets, he batted .337 with a 137 OPS+ behind 91 hits in 85 games. Iglesias was fantastic down the stretch in September, batting .371 in the final month of the regular season before amassing 10 hits in a dozen postseason games.
Cincinnati currently has a decent amount of power in their lineup, highlighted by Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer, Matt McLain, and Tyler Stephenson. But adding a reliable contact hitter somewhere sprinkled in the bottom of the lineup could be the perfect addition to the Reds roster.
Iglesias mainly plays shortstop, but his defensive ability could convince Terry Francona to start him at the hot corner on occasion, or even at second base. Iglesias could be an upgrade defensively over both Jeimer Candelario and Noelvi Marte, and if he catches fire, he could gain the favor of the Reds new skipper.
Iglesias would certainly fit the Reds’ budget as well. His strengths on the field, paired with his flare for the spotlight off the field, Iglesias could make for the perfect under-the-radar signing. His value and his comfort playing in Cincinnati are undeniable, but it remains to be seen whether or not president of baseball operations Nick Krall and his staff have Iglesias on their radar.
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