The Cincinnati Reds may be a team to look out for in 2025. They have a strong young core in place that helped them win 82 games in 2023 and ignite hope for the future.
After hiring new manager Terry Francona, the Reds could add some intriguing pieces to their roster and try to compete for a spot in the postseason in 2025.
When listing each MLB team’s projected Opening Day lineup, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter listed Joc Pederson as next year’s designated hitter for Cincinnati.
“The Diamondbacks used a successful platoon of Joc Pederson and Randal Grichuk at designated hitter in 2024. And with both players on the open market again, that tandem could make a ton of sense for a Reds team looking to find more consistent run production,” Reuter wrote.
The veteran slugger hit .275 with 23 home runs, 64 RBI and a .908 OPS. He also reached base at a .393 clip, had a .515 slugging percentage and a 151 OPS+.
Pederson likely won’t be terribly expensive, and he is somebody that can play all three outfield positions, as well as first base. But Cincinnati could use him as a DH.
He brings power from the left side of the plate and could be a formidable presence in a young Reds lineup.
It will be interesting to see if the team decides to take a look at the 32-year-old slugger this winter. He could significantly boost Cincinnati’s lineup as they try to take the next step towards contention in 2025.
