Blue Jays-Jeff Hoffman deal could thrust Reds into catbird's seat for key free agent

The Cincinnati Reds were linked to relief pitcher Carlos Estévez earlier this offseason. It was rumored that both the Reds and Toronto Blue Jays were interested in signing the former All-Star closer.

But the Jays added to their bullpen just last week after agreeing to terms with former Reds' pitcher Jeff Hoffman. After two successful seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, Hoffman agreed to a three-year, $33 million deal with Toronto. Hoffman had some concerning medicals that turned off both the Atlanta Braves and Baltimore Orioles, but was still able to secure a long-term deal.

But with Hoffman on his way to the Great White North, that clears the way for Cincinnati to take control in negotiations with Estévez. While adding an outfielder should take priority over signing a top-end reliever, having Estévez in the fold would certainly give new Reds manager Terry Francona a terrific 1-2 punch at the backend of the bullpen.

Blue Jays-Jeff Hoffman deal could thrust Reds into catbird's seat for Carlos Estévez

The Reds were able to avoid arbitration with closer Alexis Díaz and agreed to terms on a one-year, $4.5 million pact ahead of the upcoming season. But after parting with Ian Gibaut, Buck Farmer, and Justin Wilson in free agency, and trading away Fernando Cruz, the Reds' bullpen is looking rather shaky.

Díaz himself had an inconsistent season in 2024, and while Sam Moll, Emilio Pagán, and Brent Suter can be counted out to contribute next season, there are far more question marks than certainties among the group of relievers vying for a spot on the Reds' Opening Day roster.

Tony Santillan, Yosver Zulueta, and Carson Spiers have all shown flashes, but none have displayed a propensity to handle big league hitters with any measure of consistency. Graham Ashcraft and Connor Phillips may both be on their way to a relief role in 2025, but that's a bit of an unknown. Zach Maxwell and Luis Mey can throw gas, but can they land strikes when it counts?

All these pitchers could have some sort of impact next season, but they're also incredibly flawed. Adding a veteran presence to the bullpen should be a priority for Nick Krall and the Reds front office. Given the team's financial constraints, finding the right free agent match can be complicated. If Estévez is truly on the Reds' radar, Krall and Co. should double their efforts following Hoffman's agreement with the Blue Jays, and strike before another club presents a better offer.

Teams like the Angels, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago Cubs have all been loosely mentioned as potential suitors for Estévez. With Hoffman off the board, the relief market is sure to explode any minute. Time to get moving, Reds!

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