Cincinnati Reds News Roundup — September 29, 2026

The Cincinnati Reds missed the playoffs for the second consecutive season after disappointing in 2026, though shortstop Elly De La Cruz provided a bright spot by earning National League Player of the Month honors for September following a dominant final month that included nine home runs and a .348 batting average.

The team faces significant roster reconstruction heading into 2027, with multiple everyday players underperforming offensively throughout the season. Front office priorities include signing established hitters to replace underperforming contributors while retaining core pieces like De La Cruz, catcher Tyler Stephenson, and first baseman Sal Stewart. The pitching rotation requires immediate attention as well, with only Chase Burns, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo locked in as starters after Brady Singer enters free agency. Brandon Williamson and Carson Spiers, both recovering from Tommy John surgery, failed to audition successfully for rotation spots during September, posting poor late-season numbers that complicated the team's plans to fill multiple starting positions.

Young players showed promise despite the disappointing season. Héctor Rodríguez, a 22-year-old called up after a trade, hit six home runs in 41 games while displaying solid defense in right field. Relief pitcher Luis Mey struck out over 30 percent of batters faced despite an inflated ERA from one poor outing. Carlos Jorge appeared in 18 games as a converted outfielder, demonstrating speed through bunt hits and stolen bases.

The Reds' offseason will unfold against the backdrop of the ongoing playoffs, which began today without Cincinnati. Former Reds first baseman Joey Votto joined NBC's broadcast team for the National League Wild Card Series, where he made predictions targeting the Cubs and Yankees for early exits. Meanwhile, Cubs outfielder Ian Happ, who has dominated Cincinnati pitching with a .939 OPS against the Reds, indicated willingness to accept less money to remain in Chicago rather than pursue larger contracts elsewhere.