The Cincinnati Reds saw a setback in 2024, ending with a 77-85 record after a promising 82-win season in 2023. Despite the dip, the Reds have a talented young core and recently appointed Terry Francona as their new manager.

With a few key additions, the Reds could become a strong contender in the NL Central. Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report floated the idea of Cincinnati potentially signing right-hander Walker Buehler, listing the Reds as the third-best fit for the former Cy Young candidate.

Buehler’s 2024 regular season was challenging, finishing 1-6 with a 5.38 ERA after returning from his second Tommy John surgery and dealing with a hip injury. However, he delivered in the postseason, helping the Dodgers to their first full-season World Series title since 1988. Buehler’s standout performances, including a Game 3 gem and series-clinching Game 5 at Yankee Stadium, may have boosted his free-agent stock.

For the Reds, adding Buehler to a rotation featuring Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Rhett Lowder could significantly strengthen their pitching. The 30-year-old right-hander is an ideal candidate for a 2025 bounce-back, making a one-year “prove it” deal appealing for Cincinnati. If Buehler stays healthy, he could be a valuable asset for any team in need of rotation depth.