Suárez and Friedl Clear Waivers, Locking Reds Into Costly Dead Money

Key points

• Suárez and Friedl went unclaimed on outright waivers and will stay with the Reds.
• The Reds hoped to shed salaries before the Sept. 1 deadline to save money.
• Suárez is batting .208/.295/.410 with 19 home runs in 410 plate appearances.
• Friedl is batting .158/.242/.234 and is a likely non-tender candidate.
• The Reds will likely retain both players for the remainder of the season.

Background

The Reds placed both veterans on waivers on Tuesday, hoping to offload their remaining salaries before the September 1 deadline for postseason eligibility. This move was part of a broader strategy to manage payroll for a low-budget franchise. Earlier reports indicated that the Reds were eyeing these moves to trim costs, but the lack of interest from other clubs has forced them to retain the players. The situation highlights the challenges faced by the Reds in managing their roster and payroll, especially with players like Suárez and Friedl underperforming. The archive notes that the Reds had previously considered these moves as part of their financial strategy, but the current outcome has left them with significant dead money.

How outlets are covering it

MLB Trade Rumors emphasizes the financial implications for the Reds, noting that they will have to absorb the remaining salaries of both players. The outlet highlights the poor performance of both players and the likelihood that they will finish the season with the Reds. Sportsnet.ca, on the other hand, focuses on the potential fit for the Toronto Blue Jays, suggesting that while Suárez could provide a power boost, there is no clear role for him on the Blue Jays’ roster. The Blue Jays are ranked 28th in home runs and 29th in runs scored, but their lineup is already crowded with right-handed hitters. Sportsnet.ca also notes that the Blue Jays have shown interest in Suárez before, but the current situation does not present a clear opportunity. The two outlets differ in their focus, with MLB Trade Rumors concentrating on the Reds’ financial situation and Sportsnet.ca on the potential impact on the Blue Jays.

Why it matters

The failure to shed Suárez and Friedl’s salaries will have significant financial implications for the Reds, who are already a low-payroll franchise. The team will have to make difficult decisions regarding their futures, including potential non-tendering of Friedl and the unlikely exercise of Suárez’s mutual option. The situation also highlights the challenges faced by the Reds in managing their roster and payroll, especially with players underperforming. The lack of interest from other clubs suggests that the players are not seen as valuable additions to contending teams, which could impact their future prospects. The Reds will need to find ways to manage their payroll and roster to remain competitive in the coming seasons.

What to watch

The Reds will likely retain both players for the remainder of the season, with Suárez and Friedl expected to play in Friday’s game against the Chicago Cubs. The team will need to make decisions regarding their futures, including potential non-tendering of Friedl and the unlikely exercise of Suárez’s mutual option. The Reds may also consider other moves to trim their payroll, such as placing relievers Emilio Pagán, Brock Burke, and Pierce Johnson on waivers. The situation will likely have a significant impact on the Reds’ financial and roster management in the coming seasons.