Reds Offseason Moves

Continuing in the tradition of discussing a die and often unrelated subjects, I present my offseason plan for the Reds. 

The Reds have done a pretty good job this offseason, but there are a few things I would do if I were the general manager instead of Walt Jocketty.

First, I would trade for Jeff Francoeur.  He struggled with the Braves last year and could use a change of scenery.  The Reds, of course, are looking for a right-handing hitting rightfielder. Check. He's struggled a little with his power and slugging numbers, but they should go up in the hitter-friendly Great American Ballpark.  With the Reds, he would not be asked to hit cleanup and face so much pressure, as he often was (or is) with the Braves.  He is also a good defensive player and could further solidify the young nuclear of the Reds.  He is already a star, but would be best in a park like GABP, without the hometown pressure or tension, which manifest last year when he was sent down to the Braves Double-A minor league affiliate.  He could come for fairly cheap, probably Ryan Freel and Homer Bailey and a prospect, such as one of the young shortstops, like Chris Valaika or Todd Frazier, or even a Ryan  Freel and Matt Belisle combo.

Second, I would sign Ivan Rodriguez.  He can repeat his 2003 performance when he led the young Florida Marlins to a World Series championship.  He can mentor the young catcher, Ryan Hanigan, and play, say 60% of the time.  It would also be great for the young latino players like Johnny Cueto and Edison Volquez to have a battery mate and mentor like Rodriguez.

Third, sign Dennys Reyes.  The Reds need a veteran left-handed specialist, and I'm a sucker for getting ex-Reds back in town.

Fourth, bring Sean Casey back.  Just because I love Sean Casey.

Fifth, I would pursue Milton Bradley, even if Jerry Hairiston is resigned.  Neither stays healthy, but both would provide a right-handed spark to the lineup.  Even if both stayed healthy, Hairiston is valuable in a utility role, so he could find plenty of playing time.  I would say an incentive-laden contract would be best, but is probably unlikely because he'll try to get a big deal because of all of his past problems staying on the field.  A three year deal, worth somewhere in the neighborhood of 22-28 million would do the trick, with a fourth-year option worth around 11 million.  I would offer Hairiston a one-year deal worth a base salary of 2.75 million and plenty of incentives.  A second-year option would also be included, worth about 6 million, without major incentives.  

All of these moves would be very cost-effective, be restore the offense, finding a middle way between homer-focused run production and small ball.  The  defense would also be better, which will be crucial to the Reds this year.