Sat Dec 27 15:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Cincinnati Reds have signed outfielder JJ Bleday, a former high draft pick who was recently non-tendered by the Oakland Athletics. Bleday had a strong 2024 season but struggled in 2025. The Reds are taking a chance on him regaining his form, with the flexibility to send him to Triple-A if needed. The signing is generating mixed reactions from fans, with some seeing potential and others questioning the significance of the move.

News Article:

Reds Sign Outfielder JJ Bleday to Big League Deal

Cincinnati, OH – The Cincinnati Reds have added outfielder JJ Bleday to their roster, signing him to a major league contract, according to reports from FanSided and MLB.com. Bleday, a former fourth-overall pick by the Miami Marlins in 2019, was recently released by the Oakland Athletics.

Bleday, 28, showed promise in 2024, hitting .243 with 20 home runs and a 120 wRC+ for the A’s. However, he regressed in 2025, with a .212 average, 14 home runs, and a 90 wRC+, leading to multiple demotions to Triple-A.

“Bleday is a player with upside,” said one baseball analyst. “He has the potential to be a valuable asset if he can regain his 2024 form.”

The Reds are betting on a bounce-back season from Bleday. He has one minor league option remaining, providing the Reds flexibility. He can be sent to Triple-A if he struggles at the major league level, and if he hits, he can stick with the big-league club.

The move has generated mixed reactions among Reds fans. Some are optimistic, pointing to Bleday’s previous success and the potential for a change of scenery to benefit him. Others are more skeptical, viewing the signing as a low-risk, low-reward move that doesn’t address the team’s more pressing needs.

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