Reds stun fans, eye Lane Thomas as next “prove it” signing amid Schwarber snub

Reds Seek Value in Lane Thomas Amid Schwarber’s Allure

The allure of signing a player like Kyle Schwarber captivates many Cincinnati Reds fans. His track record and power bat seem to fit seamlessly into the Reds’ vision for future success. However, the reality is that the Reds are unlikely to pursue Schwarber with the kind of contract that would entice him.

A Familiar Strategy

Instead of going after big-name stars, the Reds appear poised to continue their trend of signing players to “prove it” contracts—deals designed to give players a chance to showcase their abilities while minimizing financial risk for the team. This strategy has become a hallmark of the Reds’ approach in recent years, and it seems they’re leaning toward that method again.

In the 2024 offseason, the Reds made headlines by signing Austin Hays to a two-year deal that includes a mutual option for the second year. This mirrors past moves where they took a similar gamble on players like Frankie Montas in 2023 and Will Myers in 2022. The underlying hope is to find hidden gems—players who can exceed expectations and provide significant value at a lower cost.

Lane Thomas: A Potential Fit

As the Reds look ahead to the upcoming offseason, one name stands out as a potential target for a prove-it deal: Lane Thomas. With a career WAR of 5.4 and an OPS+ of 103, Thomas has shown flashes of his potential but also endured a challenging season that may have impacted his market value.

His power and versatility could make him a valuable asset for the Reds, who are always on the lookout for players who can step up and contribute. If Thomas can find his rhythm again, he could emerge as a significant contributor to the Reds’ lineup while fitting perfectly into their current strategy of risk-reward contracts.

Looking Ahead

In a landscape where big names often command hefty salaries, the Reds’ focus on players like Thomas reflects a broader trend in baseball: the search for undervalued talent. The Reds may not land a superstar this offseason, but if they can identify players with potential to thrive under pressure, they could set themselves up for a more competitive future.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Reds’ decisions. Will they continue their trend of savvy, low-risk signings, or will they surprise fans with a bold move? Only time will tell, but for now, the possibility of Lane Thomas adds an intriguing layer to the conversation.