Cincinnati — While few free-agent hitters have inked deals yet, the Reds made it clear early in the winter that they were interested in Jeimer Candelario. Playing against Cincinnati in 2023, the corner infielder seemed to have a positive impression of the squad, suggesting that the feelings were reciprocated.
Candelario stated on Tuesday, “Playing against this team this year, I saw a different team.” “I observed a team that hits quite aggressively. We are able to hit and run. These young men are a pleasant bunch. Together with the other guys on this squad, we can create something truly unique in Cincinnati.
Despite having reached an agreement last week, Candelario and the Reds formally inked a three-year, $45 million contract on Monday after he passed his physical. The deal also includes a club option for 2027. At a news conference held Tuesday morning at Great American Ball Park, Candelario was introduced.
A source claims that while several teams, including the Nationals, one of Candelario’s previous organizations, were interested in signing him, the Reds made it obvious to him as soon as the free-agent market opened following the World Series. Conversations with his representative, Paul Kinzer, commenced during the November General Managers Meetings, and Cincinnati consistently monitored Candelario’s progress.
“We went after him hard. We desired for him to enter and have an experienced presence. That’s the reason he’s here,” said Nick Krall, president of baseball operations.
Aside from the truncated 2020 season, in which he recorded an OPS of.872, the switch-hitting Candelario batted.251 with a career-best.807 OPS. During 140 games for the Nationals and Cubs last season, he also set personal highs with 22 home runs and 70 RBIs. With 39 doubles, he was tied for sixth place in MLB.
“Just a bat with impact,” Krall remarked. “A hitter with line drive potential who could hit more home runs in this stadium. He is capable of playing both first and third base with good defense.
The 30-year-old Candelario joins a young Reds team, particularly in the infield with Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, and Elly De La Cruz.
Krall stated, “They have all played in the major leagues for less than a year.” “I believe that hiring qualified veterans is crucial for us.”
The Reds intend to turn infielder Spencer Steer a full-time outfielder in order to make everything fit. In order to determine if it’s a possibility, they will also have second baseman Jonathan India work in the outfield during spring training. It is anticipated that India will see time at designated hitter and first base.
Candelario is prepared to take on a leadership position and set an example for the younger players. He wanted to join Cincinnati, in part, because of the young players.
“I attempt to stick to a schedule. Many young men are present, but they are competent,” he remarked. “We discussed some really special guys, like McLain, Steer, and De La Cruz.” They play in the major leagues for a season or two. They have strong defense and ABs. It appears as though they have spent three or four years in the major leagues. Young men with a great deal of skill, but
Although Candelario was a fan of the Reds in the past, he was also a very successful hitter against them. In 11 games versus Cincinnati in 2023, he batted.359 with a 1.160 OPS and three home runs.
In his 12 games at Great American Ball Park, Candelario has hit.270 (10-for-37) with four home runs and a 1.094 OPS.
It’s going to be enjoyable. I look from gap to gap. There will be home runs, particularly at this stadium, according to Candelario. “It all comes down to being aggressive in the strike zone, getting my walks, and attempting to produce quality ABs,” is how I approach the plate. I want to be in a terrific position on the bases to create runs, and I like to be on second. Everyone can run here, and we can cause some harm. Being a part of this group excites me, as it’s a unique group.