CHAOS: Cincinnati Reds DOUBLE DOWN on Failed Philosophy—Can Chris Veleka FIX Anything?

Cincinnati Reds double down on hitting coach Chris Veleka despite owning MLB’s worst offense in 2026. Can Nick Krall’s commitment to a contact-over-power approach finally reverse the Reds’ struggles, or is the front office repeating past mistakes? Steven Offenbaker breaks down jaw-dropping stats, questionable roster-building logic, and the organization’s cycle of excuses that frustrate a hungry fanbase.

Key discussion points include Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart’s key performances, looming questions for Ke’Bryan Hayes, Noelvi Marte, and Matt McLain, and Terry Francona’s challenge in constructing a lineup that actually fits the team’s stated “get them on, get them over, get them in” philosophy. With mounting pressure from fans and a front office unwilling to accept blame, the outlook for 2027 is on the line—will the Reds finally fix the offense, or are supporters doomed to more disappointment?

Cincinnati Reds, Reds News, Reds Offense, Reds Hitting Coach, Chris Veleka, Nick Krall, Elly De La Cruz, Sal Stewart, Tyler Stephenson, Ke'Bryan Hayes, Noelvi Marte, Matt McLain, Edwin Arroyo, Eugenio Suarez, JJ Bleday, 2027 Reds, MLB News, Cincinnati Reds Rumors, Reds Analysis, Terry Francona, Contact Hitting, Reds Roster, MLB Offseason, Reds 2026 Review

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the Locked On Reds community: https://lockedonreds.supercast.com

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Cincinnati Reds Talk!
https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

- Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

Gameday Mens Health
Gameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at
https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #MLB Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.