The Cincinnati Reds took several steps back in 2024 after finishing 2023 just two games back of the final National League Wild Card spot.
This year, they finished with a record of 77-85 and fell to fourth place in the NL Central division. Still, they have a solid young core in place.
Players such as Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer, Jonathan India, and Matt McLain have ignited hope for the future. But the Reds could look to supplement their youth with some veterans.
Erik Beaston of Bleacher Report linked the Reds to St. Louis Cardinals slugger Paul Goldschmidt.
"The Athletic's Katie Woo reported that the St. Louis Cardinals 'are expected to part ways with' first baseman Paul Goldschmidt this offseason," Beaston wrote. "The Reds, Angels, Mariners, and Twins are all teams that could use upgrades at the position."
The Reds ended the 2024 season with Ty France as their starting first baseman. But they could certainly use an upgrade.
Goldschmidt provides elite defense at first base, even though his bat has started to decline a little bit.
In what is likely his last season in St. Louis, Goldschmidt hit just .245 with 22 home runs, 65 RBI, 11 stolen bases, and a .716 OPS. He also turned 37 years old in September, so he is past his prime.
Still, he could give the Reds a boost on both sides of the ball as well as provide some much-needed veteran leadership in a young clubhouse.
Cincinnati has a relatively small ballpark too, so he could certainly benefit from the favorable dimensions that allow for more home runs. And the Reds could certainly stick it to the Cardinals by stealing away one of their stars.
It will be interesting to see what Goldschmidt's market looks like this winter. The Reds could be a good fit for him.
More MLB: Twins could target former Cardinals slugger to bolster offense for 2025
