Reds Insider Links Chicago Cubs All-Star Ian Happ to Cincinnati in Free Agency | MLB News, Rumors

Nick Kirby and Mike Hart discuss the report from Gordan Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer that Ian Happ is the "Reds' prototype free agent target" this off-season.

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The Cincinnati Reds are heading into an offseason with a familiar question: how do they build a better team without simply paying more for the same roster?

MLB Trade Rumors' arbitration projections show why that question matters. Twelve Reds players are projected to earn a combined $42.7 million in 2027. These estimates offer an early look at the cost of keeping this group together.

Nick Kirby breaks down the projections, the biggest potential raises and the decisions facing Cincinnati after a 75-87 season. Keeping its core is only part of the job. The Reds also need to decide where that core needs help and which players justify their projected salaries.

Elly De La Cruz leads the list at $7.9 million. His first trip through arbitration represents a major jump from his $800,000 salary in 2026. That is the reality: the inexpensive seasons eventually give way to bigger paydays, even before free agency. Elly remains central to Cincinnati's future, but his rising salary makes the rest of the roster's construction increasingly important.

Spencer Steer and Nick Lodolo are each projected at $5.7 million, followed by JJ Bleday at $4.8 million and Andrew Abbott at $4.5 million. Matt McLain's projection is $4 million. Together, those six players account for $32.6 million of the projected arbitration total.

The remaining estimates are Tony Santillan at $2.5 million, Graham Ashcraft at $2.2 million, Tejay Antone and Dane Myers at $1.5 million each, Brandon Williamson at $1.3 million and Oswaldo Cabrera at $1.1 million. Smaller salaries still matter when a front office is weighing roster spots, depth and opportunities to upgrade.

Arbitration does not work like unrestricted free agency. Eligible players remain under team control while their salaries are negotiated. If a team and player cannot reach an agreement, an arbitration panel can choose between the two salary figures submitted. A projection helps frame that process, but it does not guarantee what a player will earn.

The Reds also have to decide whom to tender a contract. The mid-to-late November non-tender deadline is an early checkpoint for the offseason. Keeping every eligible player is a choice, not a requirement. Cincinnati must weigh expected production, health, role and alternatives before committing to another season.

McLain is one of the most interesting cases. At a projected $4 million, the question is what the Reds can reasonably expect from him in 2027. Can he provide the offense they need from second base? How much should Cincinnati invest in another option? A rebound helps, but a backup is needed.

Lodolo presents a different decision. Starting pitching has value, and trading a pitcher can create a new hole while addressing another one. The Reds should weigh any potential return against what replacing his innings would cost. A trade only improves the outlook if the overall roster becomes stronger.

The broader challenge is making room for additions while existing players become more expensive. An increase in payroll does not automatically mean an increase in talent. Arbitration raises can