Although the World Series is in full swing, the many fans throughout Reds Country have turned their attention toward the offseason.
The Cincinnati Reds were virtually non-competitive in 2022 and not much is likely to change in 2023 as the team looks to allow their young prospects to shine with increased playing time.
But that doesn't mean that Cincinnati's front office won't or shouldn't invest in a few affordable free agents this winter. Which three positions are most in need of an upgrade through free agency?
1. The Cincinnati Reds must add a veteran outfielder in free agency.
The Cincinnati Reds outfield is a gigantic question mark heading into next season. Will Nick Senzel be healthy? If so, will he still be in center field? Did Aristides Aquino do enough to secure a spot on the 40-man roster or will he be DFA'd? Are Jake Fraley, TJ Friedl, and Stuart Farichild more than just platoon outfielders?
With so many questions, the Cincinnati front office needs to come up with an answer or two via free agency. Last season it was Tommy Pham who was inked to a one-year deal and then traded at the deadline. The year before, Tyler Naquin joined the Reds in spring and played a key role in the team's 2021 winning season.
It's unlikely that the Reds will chase any big-name free agents. So don't hold your breath waiting from Aaron Judge or Brandon Nimmo to be signed by the Reds this offseason. But a player like Ben Gamel, Corey Dickerson, or Robbie Grossman could be intriguing to the Redlegs.
The Reds outfield depth in the minor leagues is concerning. Most of the talented prospects are currently in High-A or even Low-A. With so few top-shelf prospects, Cincinnati should look to add at least one free agent outfielder this offseason.