Joc Pederson's deal makes Leody Taveras expendable, but Reds shouldn't take the bait

The Cincinnati Reds need to add an outfielder this offseason. As the roster stands at the moment, the starting outfield would likely be comprised of Spencer Steer, Jake Fraley, and TJ Friedl. According to Fielding Bible, that trio combined to be worth -7 defensive runs saved (DRS) in 2024. That doesn't align with the Reds' new philosophy with an emphasis on defense. Believe it or not, Stuart Fairchild was the Reds' best outfielder (6 DRS) using this metric.

The Reds could certainly use a defensive upgrade in the outfield next season, and based on the front office's track record this offseason, the trade route might be the most realistic. President of baseball operations Nick Krall has spoken about the desire among opposing ball clubs to swap Major League rather than target prospects.

Joc Pederson's deal makes Leody Taveras expendable, but Reds shouldn't take the bait

One such target could be Texas Rangers' centerfielder Leody Taveras. The Rangers are revamping their roster, and after signing Joc Pederson, Taveras could be expendable. With Pederson slotted as the Rangers' designated hitter heading into 2025, the rest of the Texas outfield will be comprised of Evan Carter, Adolis Garcia, and Wyatt Langford. But is Taveras really the type of player the Reds should be targeting in a trade?

One look at his slash line would tell you, no. Taveras, in a down-year, hit .229/.289/.352. Though the switch-hitting centerfielder posted a respectable .733 OPS in 2023, his career on-base percentage is below .295. While upgrading the defense is important, it doesn't amount to a hill of beans if your failing to reach base consistently. The Reds already have enough of those players on the 40-man roster.

Speaking of defense, Taveras' numbers can be somewhat confusing. While the 26-year-old was worth 5 outs above average (OAA) in 2024, his -10 DRS was the worst among all Rangers players. Jamey Newburg of D Magazine cites his shaky accuracy and befuddling angles as frustrating to watch, suggesting those who see Taveras on a regular basis see the flaws in the game.

If the Reds are looking for a weak-hitting, defensive-minded centerfielder to platoon with Friedl or Fraley, they already have that in Fairchild. If the Reds intend to trade for an outfielder this offseason, it should be an everyday player, not a platoon bat.

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