Cubs circling former Reds fan-favorite who slipped away at last year's trade deadline

Former Cincinnati Reds third baseman Eugenio Suárez has had an odd career, interspersing some bad seasons between a number of home run frenzies. He just pulled one of the greatest disappearing acts of his career, going from an All-Star-level first half with the Arizona Diamondbacks to a below-the-Mendoza-line performance in the second half with the Seattle Mariners.

Still, Suárez should be one of the most popular names on the free-agent market, thanks to the second 49-homer campaign of his career. He may struggle to continuously be the player who hit .253/.335/.476 during seven seasons with the Reds, but he can still change the game with one swing as often as anyone else in the sport.

Though he's probably not a great fit in Cincinnati, he'll still have his fair share of suitors. Unfortunately, that means some of the Reds' division rivals are likely to be involved in the Suárez sweepstakes, and wouldn't you know it — the Chicago Cubs appear to be emerging as a favorite.

Cubs are pursuing former Reds star Eugenio Suárez in free agency

The Cubs were one of the most aggressive pursuers of Suárez at the trade deadline, as their rookie third baseman (Matt Shaw) had yet to break out of his early-career slump. The Reds were also in the mix, but decided instead to swing a deal for Ke'Bryan Hayes. The Cubs ultimately fell short of their pursuit, and Suárez was traded to the Mariners.

The Cubs' renewed interest in Suárez is notable, especially since Shaw had a strong second half (130 wRC+) in 2025. The Cubs are working within some serious budget constraints this offseason, especially after Shota Imanaga shocked them by accepting their qualifying offer last month. Geno would be a big addition to the Cubs' lineup; one that's set to lose Kyle Tucker to free agency.

Adding Suárez to the Cubs' roster could spell some trouble for the Reds, who, despite an elite pitching staff, may be lacking the offensive firepower to keep up with Chicago and the Milwaukee Brewers atop the division.

For now, Reds fans can simply hold their breath and hope the Cubs don't sign one of the premier sluggers on the market. The Reds has more pressing matters to attend to anyways, like a potential blockbuster deal with Kyle Schwarber.