Reds refusal to cut bait with this player just made their offseason even harder

On Thursday, about 170 players across Major League Baseball attempted to negotiate their upcoming salaries for the 2026 season ahead of the arbitration deadline. The Cincinnati Reds had 11 players in line for a raise heading into next season, but Gavin Lux's situation is arguably the most curious among them.

The Reds infielder reportedly settled for $5.525 million, which represents a $2 million increase from the $3.325 million Lux made last season. The former Los Angeles Dodgers' shortstop put up a solid, but unspectacular stat line in 2025, hitting .269/.350/.374 across 503 plate appearances. Lux saw time at second and third base as well as left field, and also acted as the team's DH for more than 50 games.

And while Lux's salary for 2026 isn't exorbitant, the Reds would've been better off allocating those funds elsewhere this offseason, especially given the team's financial constraints. Cincinnati had the opportunity to non-tender Lux earlier this offseason, but offered him a contract instead.

Reds refusal to cut bait with Gavin Lux just increased their 2026 payroll

Lux is a fine player and adds a measure of depth to the Reds roster that could be necessary in 2026. But $5 million-plus for a utility player is a luxury Cincinnati can't afford — not when there are still a number of holes on the roster.

Lux's role heading into the 2026 season will be much different than it was last season. After coming over from the Dodgers last January, it was assumed that Lux would split time between third base and left field. By midseason, it was apparent that he lacked the skillset to play above-average defense at either position, and was relegated to a DH-only role. Lux was unplayable against left-handed pitching.

Sal Stewart had a cup of coffee in the big leagues last season, and he's expected to take on a much bigger role heading into 2026. Though he has experience at several infield positions, designated hitter is certainly a place where Stewart could thrive. Reds fans would hate to see Stewart's reduced because of Lux's presence on the roster.

There's still time for the Reds to move on from Lux, but it'll have to be through a trade. That could definitely be on the table, and may be something the Reds front office looks at as the season approaches. It's difficult to move on from productive players so early in the offseason, but with such a razor-thin budget heading into 2026, it would seem the Reds could use those funds to help bolster other areas of the roster.