Matt McLain and Ke'Bryan Hayes are creating a major Reds' roster dilemma

The Cincinnati Reds rank last in weighted runs created plus at 87 and 27th in runs scored, with third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes and second baseman Matt McLain contributing significantly to the offensive struggles. Hayes is having his worst season with a .453 OPS and 19 wRC+, while also posting career-lows in defensive metrics, though his $23 million contract through 2029 makes him nearly impossible to trade. McLain has seen his value decline since his 2023 debut, posting a 79 wRC+ despite solid defense at second base, but the Reds would have to accept minimal return to move him. The team faces a difficult offseason decision as Hayes appears untradeable due to his contract while McLain could only be dealt at a steep discount.

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