The Cincinnati Reds could be facing a midseason shake-up in their bullpen, as two veteran relief pitchers are reportedly eligible to opt out of their contracts today, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. The opt-out eligibility stems from specific performance-based clauses negotiated into their deals during the offseason — and is further fueled by growing frustrations over usage, role uncertainty, and the team’s recent struggles.
The Pitchers in Question
While the Reds have yet to confirm the identities, league insiders have pointed to right-hander Alex Reyes and lefty veteran Brad Hand as the two pitchers with contractual exit options triggered as of June 1.
Both pitchers signed one-year deals with midseason opt-outs contingent on innings pitched, team performance, and their ability to secure high-leverage roles. Through the first two months of the season, both have delivered mixed results — solid outings sprinkled with inconsistency, largely due to fluctuating bullpen roles.
What’s Causing the Tension?
Sources inside the clubhouse indicate that the issue isn’t strictly about performance — it’s about role clarity and long-term security.
“There’s a sense of uncertainty in that bullpen,” a Reds insider told MLB Network. “Some of these guys were promised opportunities that haven’t fully materialized. When veterans don’t feel valued, and they have a contractual out, they’ll consider it.”
The Reds, sitting fourth in the NL Central and clinging to a sub-.500 record, have struggled to maintain bullpen stability. Manager David Bell has frequently shuffled late-inning roles, using a closer-by-committee approach that has left some veterans feeling underutilized.
What’s Next for the Reds?
Should either Reyes or Hand choose to opt out, they would become free agents immediately — eligible to sign with any team. This could present both a challenge and an opportunity for Cincinnati.
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Challenge: Losing experienced bullpen arms during the heart of the season could exacerbate an already shaky relief corps.
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Opportunity: It could open the door for younger arms from Triple-A Louisville, like Emilio Salazar or Ben Walcott, to earn big-league reps.
Reds’ Front Office Response
When asked about the situation, Reds GM Nick Krall gave a brief comment:
“We’re aware of the contractual structures in place and continue to have open communication with our players. We’re focused on building a competitive roster every day.”
Final Word
Whether either pitcher pulls the trigger on their opt-out remains to be seen, but the decision could come within hours. If so, it would be a rare midseason pivot that may ripple through both the Reds’ bullpen strategy and the broader trade and waiver markets.
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