The Reds have lots of work to do, but Francona will ‘never not be optimistic’

The Cincinnati Reds concluded their 2026 Major League Baseball season with a 75-87 record, finishing in last place in the National League Central following a 5-1 defeat against the Blue Jays. The disappointing campaign came after a postseason berth in 2025, with manager Terry Francona acknowledging the team's regression despite an early 20-11 start to the season.

Cincinnati struggled across multiple areas, finishing last in the majors in team batting average (.229) and on-base percentage (.305), while ranking 28th in pitching ERA (4.83). The club's struggles were compounded by numerous significant injuries throughout the year, including missed time for key players Hunter Greene, Elly De La Cruz, Eugenio Suárez, and Emilio Pagán.