Reds can afford to make one big move in free agency and Nick Martinez should be it

Writer Drew Koch argues that the Cincinnati Reds should pursue a free agency reunion with pitcher Nick Martinez this offseason. Martinez, who earned an All-Star selection with the Tampa Bay Rays after signing a $12 million contract, will become an unrestricted free agent following the World Series. The piece suggests Cincinnati could target the 36-year-old right-hander on a projected two-year, $35 million contract to headline their winter spending.

Cincinnati faces rotation uncertainty heading into 2027 following Hunter Greene's Tommy John surgery and the pending free agency departure of Brady Singer. Koch notes that payroll space opened by expiring contracts should allow the Reds to afford Martinez's market rate, giving manager Terry Francona a proven and durable starting pitcher.