Tue Jun 24 01:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the situation with Jeimer Candelario and the Cincinnati Reds:
**Reds Cut Ties with Candelario, Designate Infielder for Assignment**
**CINCINNATI, OH -** The Cincinnati Reds have designated infielder Jeimer Candelario for assignment, just a year and a half after signing him to a three-year, $45 million contract. The move comes after Candelario was reinstated from the 10-day injured list and was on a rehab assignment for a while.
Candelario’s performance with the Reds has been a major disappointment. While he hit 20 home runs in 2024, his batting average and on-base percentage were low, resulting in a below-average offensive output and poor defensive metrics. His struggles have continued into 2025, with limited playing time due to injury and a dismal .113 batting average.
The Reds will now attempt to trade Candelario, but interest is expected to be minimal given his performance and the remaining $15 million owed for this year and $12 million for next year, plus a $3 million buyout on a 2027 club option. He will likely be released and become a free agent. While any team could then sign him for the league minimum salary, some clubs might take a low-risk chance on him, given his past success with the Tigers and Nationals/Cubs. However, his recent struggles, possibly linked to knee and back injuries, have raised concerns about his ability to return to that form.
The decision to cut ties with Candelario is somewhat surprising, as the Reds’ current corner infield options have also been struggling offensively. However, the team seems determined to move on, even at the cost of eating a significant portion of Candelario’s contract.
First Piper 