The Cincinnati Reds have started the season strong at 7–3, sitting just one win behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central race.
However, one glaring problem needs immediate attention—their lack of offensive production.
Through their first stretch of games, the Reds have managed just 28 total runs, the lowest in Major League Baseball and the only team yet to reach the 30-run mark.
To address this issue, adding a free agent bat could be a smart move.
That’s why Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer suggests Cincinnati as the ideal destination for former Reds and New York Mets outfielder Jesse Winker.
He notes that Winker could slot into a platoon role at designated hitter alongside Eugenio Suárez or rotate into left field with Spencer Steer, potentially providing some much-needed power at Great American Ball Park.
Despite having talented hitters like Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart, the Reds’ offense has yet to click and clearly needs a boost.
Winker could help fill that gap, offering versatility in both the outfield and at DH.
Winker’s 2025 campaign with the Mets was underwhelming, as he posted a .229 batting average and a .709 OPS—numbers that suggest a down year.
However, if he can return to his previous form—like in 2024 when he recorded a .764 OPS, 14 home runs, and 109 hits over 145 games—he could be a valuable addition.
Cincinnati’s lineup has struggled across the board, with Ke’Bryan Hayes batting .115, Matt McLain at .215, Spencer Steer at .188, TJ Friedl at .147, and Eugenio Suárez at .211.
While internal improvement is necessary, the team may also need to act quickly to bring in outside help.
A proven hitter like Winker, who owns a .261 career average, an .802 OPS, and an All-Star pedigree from his earlier stint in Cincinnati, could provide exactly the spark the Reds are missing.
