The Cincinnati Reds had a busy day on Friday, making several roster adjustments to free up spots on their 40-man roster, designating multiple players for assignment—some of whom they ultimately lost. Later that evening, they announced the re-signing of Brent Suter and the decision not to exercise their option on Luke Maile. Additionally, both Nick Martinez and Jakob Junis opted out of their contracts.
Starting with Brent Suter, he wasn’t exactly a free agent, as he had a $3.5 million team option. Despite his consistently low ERA, the Reds declined the option, paying him a $250,000 buyout instead. Suter then quickly re-signed with the Reds for $2.5 million for the 2025 season, along with a $3 million team option for 2026, which includes another $250,000 buyout. Reds.com’s Mark Sheldon first reported the details of this agreement.
The Reds also declined their $3.5 million team option on Luke Maile, instead giving him a $500,000 buyout, making him a free agent. Maile served as the Reds’ backup catcher for the past two seasons, appearing in 53 games in 2024 and posting a .178/.268/.252 batting line across 154 plate appearances.
Nick Martinez’s decision to opt out of his contract was expected, especially after a stellar 2024 season where he pitched a career-high 142.1 innings, achieved a personal best 3.10 ERA, issued just 18 walks, and recorded a career-high 116 strikeouts. Martinez, who made 16 starts and 26 relief appearances, was a versatile asset for the Reds throughout the season. His option was set at $12 million, but at age 34, he is likely looking for one last significant contract after such a strong year.
Now, the Reds must consider whether to extend Martinez a one-year qualifying offer of $21.05 million for 2025. While most players decline the qualifying offer, Martinez’s situation is unique—he’s unlikely to earn that amount per year on a long-term deal. However, he could still secure a guaranteed multi-year contract on the free-agent market.
Jakob Junis also declined his $8 million mutual option, opting instead for a $3 million buyout and entering free agency. The 32-year-old had an impressive season, logging 67 innings split between the Brewers and Reds. Toward the end of the season, he stepped into Cincinnati’s rotation, posting a strong 2.69 ERA with only eight walks and 51 strikeouts.
With both Martinez and Junis likely departing, the Reds are facing a significant reduction in rotation depth. While there’s a chance one or both could return on new contracts, it’s best to plan as if they won’t and consider it a bonus if they do.
Following these roster moves, the Reds’ 40-man roster now stands at 36 players.
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