Forgotten Reds farmhand might become the budget-friendly fix they need

The Cincinnati Reds’ outfield is full of question marks. As in years past, the club could use some offensive help, particularly in the form of a lefty-mashing outfielder. If Cincinnati wants to take a platoon approach next season (which seems quite likely), the team could do worse than revisiting Rob Refsnyder, who spent a season in the Reds’ farm system.

Refsnyder was a member of the taxi squad for several teams before finally breaking through as a platoon outfielder for the Boston Red Sox in 2022. Boston recognized and unlocked his potential by limiting him to appearances against left-handed pitching. As a result, Refsnyder has averaged just over 77 games per season. His .312/.407/.516 line against lefties over those four seasons, though, more than makes up for his limited playing time.

Rob Refsnyder could be the platoon outfielder of the Reds’ dreams

Refsnyder makes a strong fit for a number of contenders, but the Reds’ tight budget and piecemeal approach to roster construction could push the team to make a strong pursuit of the outfielder. Refsnyder is coming off a miniscule two-year, $3.85 million deal. Although he’ll likely be in line for a bit of a raise due to his success in 2025, his specialized skills will keep his salary fairly low.

If the Reds were to sign Refsnyder, he would likely pair with Gavin Lux and/ or Will Benson in a platoon. Refsnyder is considerably better in the field than Lux, but the combination would still be an improvement over in-house outfield options such as Rece Hinds.

A cheaper player like Refsnyder would also allow the Reds more budgetary room to pursue a more expensive trade or signing. Cincinnati only has about $25 million to spare this offseason. Refsnyder would eat up less than $5 million or so of that budget. The remaining funds aren’t quite enough to make a serious push for Kyle Schwarber or another top of the line free agent, but someone like Ryan O’Hearn would still be in play.

Terry Francona is crafty enough to deploy a platoon outfield to the Reds’ advantage. Refsnyder brings much-needed offense as well as leadership to the young Cincinnati clubhouse. This signing seems like a perfect match.