Cubs sign Reds' would-be free agent target while Cincy continues to drag their feet

The Chicago Cubs made a huge splash just before the weekend, agreeing to a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros for outfielder Kyle Tucker. Chicago paid a hefty price for what will amount to a one-year rental, but the message is clear — the Cubs are looking to compete for the National League Pennant in 2025.

The same cannot be said for the Cincinnati Reds; at least not yet. Though Cincinnati added Brady Singer to their young stable of pitchers, the trade cost the Reds their starting second baseman and clubhouse leader Jonathan India. Though India had his fair share of defensive struggles, his bat set the tone atop the Reds lineup, and Cincinnati will need to bolster their roster before Opening Day.

Cubs sign Reds' would-be free agent target Carson Kelly

In addition to Tucker, the Cubs inked free agent catcher Carson Kelly to a two-year, $11.5 million deal. The contract includes an option for the 2027 season and takes another would-be free agent off the Reds' board. Cincinnati has been actively searching for a backup catcher since dismissing Luke Maile earlier this offseason. Maile's contract contained a $3.5 million team-option for the 2025 season which the Reds declined.

However, at this rate, Cincinnati may have no choice but to reunite with the backstop due to the dwindling free agent market. While starting pitching is where the big bucks are, backup catchers are not coming cheap. Kyle Higashioka, Travis d'Arnaud, Danny Jansen, and Gary Sánchez have been fairly compensated this winter. Longtime Reds' rival, Jacob Stallings is off the market and former Cincinnati backstop Tucker Barnhart recently agreed to a deal as well.

The well is drying up with players like Yasmani Grandal, Yan Gomes, James McCann, and former Reds catcher Curt Casali representing the best of the rest. Nick Krall has made adding a quality backup to Tyler Stephenson one of his top priorities this offseason, but at this rate, he may be looking at the scrap heap. The time for patience is over, and the Reds need to find a backup catcher before the cupboard is bare.

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