Ex-division rival could quietly solve Reds’ biggest bullpen weakness

The Cincinnati Reds are well aware of their bullpen needs. The lack of depth, dearth of left-handed pitching, and absence of veteran leadership among the relief corps could dash any hope of Cincinnati returning to the postseason in 2026. However, one player could address all three problems: former Milwaukee Brewers reliever Hoby Milner.

Milner just wrapped up a one-year contract with the Texas Rangers with whom his funky delivery and solid command were a perfect fit. The southpaw had one of the slowest fastballs in the majors and a miniscule whiff rate, but still, he found success by keeping the ball on the ground and trusting his defense. These qualities make Milner a great free-agent target for the Reds.

Lefty Hoby Milner’s ability to induce ground balls makes him perfect for the Reds and Great American Ball Park

Pitchers that keep the ball on the ground tend to thrive a GABP. It’s the players that allow the ball to rise into the jet stream that get into trouble. For example, Reds reliever Graham Ashcraft, who was one of the best ground-ball pitchers in the majors last season, had a 3.15 ERA at home compared to a 4.94 mark on the road in 2025. The same holds true for opponents. Submarine pitcher Tyler Rogers has yet to allow a run in 10 games in Cincinnati.

Milner knows this to be true as well. He holds a 3.72 ERA and 0.931 WHIP at GABP, slightly better than his 3.82 and 1.233 marks. He also would give the Reds an added benefit because of his control of the strike zone. The Reds’ relievers coughed up 4.03 BB/9. Milner, even in a down year, posted 2.7 BB/9.

Milner was non-tendered last offseason and signed with the Rangers for $2.5 million. Spotrac puts his current market value at $4.1 million. Considering his age (34) and the looming lockout, it seems like he would be a candidate for a short-term deal. 

The market for free-agent relievers hasn’t really started to heat up. San Diego’s Kyle Hart has signed a significant deal, but the terms have yet to be disclosed. The Padres, though, turned down Hart’s $5 million club option, so the new contract is likely less lucrative. With this as a model, given Milner’s far greater success, $5-6 million may be the asking price if the Reds want to sign the veteran lefty.