Reds should take a flier on former Terry Francona disciple who just elected free agency

The Cincinnati Reds are known to be one of the most frugal organizations throughout Major League Baseball. As such, they're often on the lookout for free-agent bargains. Last year, the Reds struck gold with JJ Bleday and Nathaniel Lowe — both of whom signed for less than $2 million. Maybe this winter Cincinnati should turn their attention to former Cleveland Guardians outfielder Nolan Jones.

Jones elected free agency earlier this week after spending the entire 2026 season in the minor leagues. The former second-round pick began the year with the Guardians, but wrapped things up with the Seattle Mariners. Combined, he hit .253/.356/.443 in Triple-A while racking up 16 home runs, 80 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and a 104 wRC+.

Reds should sign low-risk/high-reward outfielder Nolan Jones

Jones was drafted out of high school by Cleveland in 2016. He ascended to become one of MLB Pipeline's top-50 prospects in 2021 and was called up to the big leagues in 2022. Jones was (and still is) known for his patient approach at the dish and his above-average power.

His time in the majors has been a mixed bag. After just 28 games with the Guardians in 2022, he was traded to the Colorado Rockies during the offseason for current Reds' infielder Juan Brito. He had a tremendous rookie season with the Rockies, posting a .297/.389/.542 slash line with 20 homers, 62 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. He finished fourth in the Rookie of the Year balloting that season, behind Corbin Carroll, Kodai Senga, and James Outman.

Jones' production dropped off in 2024, in part due to injury. He suffered a low back strain in late-April, and though he returned from the injured list in mid-June, he re-aggravated the injury and was placed on the IL once again in July. He hit just .227/.321/.320 in 79 games that season.

Jones was traded back to Cleveland in 2025, but struggled to replicate the numbers he posted during his rookie season. He was outrighted off the Guardians 40-man roster in March and later traded to the Chicago White Sox. Then Jones was involved in the White Sox 's trade for another former Reds player, Luis Castillo, and ended his season with Seattle's Triple-A affiliate in Tacoma.

Signing Jones represents a low-risk/ high-reward move for the Reds. He's likely to agree to a minor-league contract with an invite to spring training this winter, and if he finds success, he'll have only reached the first year of his arbitration window after the 2027 season.

After a disappointing 2026 season and some negative press, Reds fans are hopeful to see several flashy additions this winter. The more likely outcome, however, will be Nick Krall and the front office adding around the margins like they always do, and signing a free agent like Jones definitely qualifies.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow