TJ Friedl elects free agency and officially ends a Reds’ run that exceeded expectations

Outfielder TJ Friedl has officially ended his tenure with the Cincinnati Reds by electing free agency on Tuesday. Friedl went unclaimed on outright waivers in late August before being optioned to the minor leagues and subsequently designated for assignment. His departure follows a difficult 2026 campaign after agreeing to a $3.8 million deal in his first year of arbitration.

Friedl struggled offensively during the 2026 season, batting just .172 with four home runs and posting a career-worst 23.2% strikeout rate. Blog Red Machine's Drew Koch notes that Friedl's increased focus on power clashed with Cincinnati's team-wide hitting approach, leading to sharp declines in his plate discipline and signature on-base abilities.