6 surprising Reds non-tender candidates with start of offseason fast approaching

The Cincinnati Reds have some difficult decisions on the horizon. The non-tender deadline is a few short weeks away, and with Cincinnati's 40-man roster overflowing, Nick Krall and Co. will need to dump a number of players.

The Cincinnati faithful should expect the likes of Ty France, Brandon Leibrandt, and Austin Wynns to be non-tendered this offseason, but there are several players who could surprisingly be let go at the deadline. Buckle up, Reds fans, because some names on the list will be somewhat unexpected.

6 surprising Reds non-tender candidates

Stuart Fairchild, Reds outfielder

Stuart Fairchild ended his 2024 campaign on the injured list, and that may well be how the outfielder ends his tenure in Cincinnati. An accomplished defender, Fairchild doesn't offer much in terms of production at the dish. While the 27-year-old has blazing speed on the base paths, his lack of minor-league options could see him non-tendered this offseason.

Tejay Antone, Reds pitcher

Before you get too upset, understand that this one comes with a caveat. Reds fans should expect to see Tejay Antone non-tendered this offseason, but much like Kyle Farmer in 2020, Cincinnati will quickly re-sign the right-hander to a one-year deal. Antone underwent Tommy John surgery for the third time in his career, and while everyone will be rooting for a successful return to the big leagues, there's no way the Reds will give him a raise through the arbitration process.

Joey Wiemer, Reds outfielder

Joey Wiemer barely even had a cup of coffee with the Reds in 2024 after being traded from the Milwaukee Brewers at the July 30th deadline. The outfielder has a ton of raw talent, but his high strikeout rate and career 71 OPS+ makes his inclusion on the roster somewhat difficult. Don't be shocked if Wiemer is removed from the 40-man roster.

Ian Gibaut, Reds pitcher

Ian Gibaut never really got going in 2024. The right-hander made just two appearances after an injury-riddled campaign and his overall numbers aren't exactly impressive. Gibaut, much like Fairchild, is out of minor league options; something that will no doubt factor into the Reds' decision ahead of the non-tender deadline.

Jacob Hurtubise, Reds outfielder

One of the feel-good stories from the 2024 season, Jacob Hurtubise may not be part of the Reds' 40-man roster for much longer. Though Hurtubise provides a ton of speed and a keen eye at the plate, the West Point graduate certainly has a ceiling. With the Reds looking to upgrade their outfield heading into next season, Hurtubise could be a roster casualty.

Santiago Espinal, Reds infielder

This will be the most controversial name on the list, and yes, Reds GM Brad Meador recently spoke highly of Santiago Espinal and what he brings to this team. But with so many infielders and Edwin Arroyo knocking on the door, the Reds could free up a roster spot and about $4 million if Espinal is non-tendered this offseason.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors