SLEEPWALKING: Cincinnati Reds Offseason APPROACH Stale and Concerning

Cincinnati Reds spark fan frustration as the front office stalls on bold offseason moves—will a lack of urgency cost them in 2026? Steve and Jeff break down Nick Krall's cautious approach in the free agent and trade markets, raising questions about whether the Reds are poised to seize their competitive window or settle for roster leftovers. Hot rumors swirl around Pete Alonso, Devin Williams, and Justin Turner, but skepticism remains about the team's willingness to land impact bats.

Spencer Steer’s role shifts back to super utility as the Reds set sights on a new first baseman, potentially Sal Stewart or a yet-to-be-named acquisition. Trade talk intensifies around Ke'Bryan Hayes, while intriguing possibilities emerge for Miguel Andújar’s return. The hosts debate fan hopes versus reality, react to Tejay Antone’s free agency, and spotlight how Terry Francona’s appeal could shape future signings. Are Reds fans in for another year of “we’ll see”—or a surprise splash?

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-reds/

https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnReds?sub_confirmation=1

Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnMLB

BOOKMARK Sports Illustrated’s Cincinnati Reds site, Inside the Reds!

https://www.si.com/mlb/reds/

Also follow @jefffcarr and @soffenbaker on Twitter

JOIN THE DISCORD SERVER: https://discord.gg/STMcRDyMCt

KYLE SCHWARBER EVENT IN MIDDLETOWN: https://cityofmiddletown.org/724/Beyond-the-Field-with-Kyle-Schwarber

For your next listen, check out the Locked On MLB podcast. Get Sully’s take on MLB! He has it all covered every single day. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

00:00 "Reds Offseason Urgency Discussed"

05:31 "Nick Krall on Offseason Plans"

07:24 "Reds' Roster Hopes Teased"

12:58 "Spencer Steer: Utility Over First Base"

13:49 "Comparing Steer’s Batting Stats"

17:20 "First Base Solution Debate"

23:03 Players Drawn to Francona's Leadership

24:34 Reds' Uncertainty and Wild Cards

27:30 TJ Antone's Free Agent Ambition

30:19 "Paul Skenes Rumor Addressed"

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.PrizePicks — Run Your Game.Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football se