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The Cincinnati Reds finished 75-87, second in the NL Central, but the offseason moves are heating up. We break down the $1M signing of Oswaldo Cabrera and how it impacts the infield logjam featuring Ke'Bryan Hayes and Matt McLain. Plus, we analyze the impact of the Automated Ball-Strike system, which overturned 54% of challenged calls, on players like JJ Bleday and Elly De La Cruz. The hosts also discuss the pitching rotation battle between Andrew Abbott and Chase Petty, and predict Zach Maxwell may still start in the minors despite the bullpen depth including Tony Santillan and Tejay Antone.

Key topics include the season finale loss to the Blue Jays where Max Scherzer earned his 225th win, Rhett Lowder's first win since August, and the defensive implications of the ABS challenge system. We answer fan questions about the catching hierarchy with Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino, and evaluate whether Leonado Balcazar can earn playing time. The discussion covers the silver linings for non-playoff teams and sets the stage for 2027 predictions.

Listeners will hear detailed takes on the roster construction, the value of veteran utility players like Cabrera, and the strategic shifts caused by the new umpiring technology. We also highlight standout performances from Hector Rodriguez and the potential for Dane Myers to compete for an outfield spot in the coming year.

In this episode: Cabrera Signing & ABS Impact · Bullpen & Rotation Battles · Hypotheticals & Lightning Round.

More Reds coverage, previews & recaps: https://www.beatlinesports.com/shows/cincinnati-reds/
Full transcript: https://cdn.beatlinesports.com/mlb/cin/2026-10-18/transcript.html

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