Sheesh, that’s a lot of cash.

The Cincinnati Reds are at a pivotal moment in their franchise’s trajectory, especially in light of their outfield situation heading into the 2025 MLB season. After a tumultuous 2024 that featured a rotating cast of outfielders, the Reds are now on the lookout for a solution to solidify their lineup. With options available on the free-agent market, one name has emerged as a particularly intriguing target: Anthony Santander of the Baltimore Orioles.

Jim Bowden, a well-respected MLB insider writing for The Athletic, recently listed the Reds as potential suitors for Santander. However, the prospect of acquiring the talented right fielder comes with a daunting price tag. Following a remarkable walk year in which he set career highs in key offensive categories, Santander has positioned himself as one of the most sought-after players in the free-agent pool. He made his first All-Star Game appearance, contributing significantly to the Orioles’ success and serving as a veteran presence for a young squad. For a team like the Reds, Santander embodies the type of player they desperately need to bolster their lineup.

The question, though, is whether the Reds can realistically pursue Santander given their financial constraints and the current market dynamics. While teams like the New York Yankees or Chicago Cubs might be able to negotiate without hesitation, Cincinnati operates under a more frugal philosophy. Bowden speculates that Santander’s market value could exceed an average annual salary of $22 million. This figure would mark one of the most significant financial commitments the Reds have made in recent years, comparable only to the massive 10-year, $225 million deal they gave to Joey Votto back in 2014.

However, the circumstances surrounding Votto’s deal were markedly different. At that time, Votto was not only a perennial MVP candidate but also the face of the franchise. His deal was a testament to loyalty and a long-term investment in a player who had consistently delivered exceptional performance. Santander, while impressive, does not have the same pedigree or marketability as Votto, which complicates the Reds’ potential pursuit of him.

The free-agent landscape for outfielders is characterized by a high demand and a low supply, particularly for players of Santander’s caliber. This imbalance often leads to bidding wars among teams vying for a limited pool of talent. Despite Santander’s preference to remain in Baltimore, the Orioles may not be willing to meet his financial demands, leaving the door open for other teams to make a move. However, it’s important to note that the likelihood of Santander choosing another small-market team like the Reds over a larger market franchise may be slim.

Furthermore, Santander is likely seeking a long-term contract, a desire that could further complicate the Reds’ calculations. Given the youthful core of talent developing within their roster, the front office may be reluctant to commit significant financial resources to a player who may not fit into their long-term plans. With several of their young players approaching arbitration and the potential for contract extensions looming, the Reds must weigh the benefits of signing Santander against their financial flexibility in the years to come.

There’s, however, a glimmer of hope for Reds fans. The recent hiring of Terry Francona as manager signals a new direction for the franchise, potentially shifting the organizational mindset toward greater competitiveness. If the Reds can position themselves as legitimate contenders—perhaps by securing extensions for some of their standout young players—it may alter the narrative around free agency for Cincinnati. In such a scenario, making a play for a player like Santander becomes more feasible.

Moreover, Santander’s addition could significantly impact the Reds’ lineup. His power-hitting ability would be a welcome asset, complementing the developing young talents in the outfield. Santander’s experience and veteran leadership could also play a crucial role in mentoring the Reds’ younger players, helping them navigate the complexities of MLB life. His presence could bolster not just the offense but also the overall team culture, instilling a competitive spirit that the franchise has sought to cultivate.

Ultimately, the Reds’ front office faces a critical decision. While Santander’s profile aligns perfectly with their needs, the financial implications of such a signing cannot be understated. Cincinnati’s history of cautious spending means they will need to evaluate whether the potential benefits of acquiring Santander outweigh the long-term financial commitments involved.

In a sport increasingly defined by analytics and player valuations, the Reds must also consider how Santander fits into their strategic vision. Are they prepared to prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability? Could they afford to risk their financial future on a player whose best years may coincide with a window of contention that is still uncertain?

As fans eagerly await the offseason’s developments, the conversation surrounding Anthony Santander will undoubtedly intensify. Will the Reds make a bold move to secure a key piece for their outfield, or will they opt for a more conservative approach, focusing on the internal growth of their roster?

In the coming weeks, the Reds’ decision-making will be scrutinized. The team’s trajectory hinges on how well they navigate this critical juncture in their development. Whether they pursue Santander or other free-agent options, the outcomes of their choices will play a significant role in shaping the future of the franchise. The potential for an exciting new era in Cincinnati baseball is on the horizon, and it remains to be seen how the front office will seize this opportunity.

However, while the Reds’ interest in Anthony Santander reflects their need for a reliable outfielder, the complexities surrounding the signing—including financial considerations and long-term strategy—will ultimately determine their course of action. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Cincinnati to see how they choose to navigate this pivotal moment in their franchise’s history. The future may be bright, but it will require careful planning and bold decision-making to transform potential into reality. Whether they step into the fray for Santander or take a different path, one thing is certain: the Reds are at a crossroads, and the choices they make now will resonate for years to come.