The former NL Central rival offers the Reds replacement for Jonathan India with added upside

While the Jonathan India deal strengthened the Cincinnati Reds’ rotation, it left a significant hole at the top of the lineup. Of course, there are internal options like Elly De La Cruz, but Cincinnati could choose to continue exploring the trade and free agent markets. If the Reds pursue outside options, they should turn to former Chicago Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman.

The division rival Cubs non-tendered Tauchman in late November, making the 33-year-old a free agent. Tauchman is on a one-year, $1.95 million deal with Chicago, so the Reds may be able to sign him on a bargain. Estimates suggest his arbitration agreement would be close to $3 million, a figure well within the Reds’ purchasing power.

The Reds could turn an enemy into a friend — and solve several lineup problems — by signing former Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman

Tauchman would fit perfectly into the Reds’ lineup. He is consistent and patient at the plate. Among MLB players with at least 300 plate appearances, Tauchman ranked seventh in walk rate and had a lower strikeout rate than four of the six players above him. In other words, Tauchman can be a true table-setter and innings extender, key traits of leadoff hitters.

In fact, Tauchman’s numbers are quite similar to India’s. They each hit .248 with a .357 on-base percentage in 2024. India has more power, batting .392 to Tauchman’s .366. However, the Reds don’t necessarily need their lead to make a splash. If just a few of Cincinnati’s heavyweights broke out this season, Tauchman wouldn’t be under pressure.

The ex-Cub also provides much-needed help in the outfield. The Reds need a third and fourth option to play alongside Spencer Steer and TJ Friedl. The premium outfield turf patrols far exceed the Reds’ budget, so a low-cost deal could be the way to go.

Tauchman doesn’t necessarily have strong fielding skills at the end of his career, but he wouldn’t be a disadvantage. As recently as 2023, he had a run-defensive-run value of plus 2. Although Tauchman can play all three outfield spots, his best position remains, where he has always had a positive success rate. This creates a bit of a conflict with Steer, who has primarily manned left field, but given Steer’s career -18 runs as a fielder, the Reds could make some adjustments in the depth chart.

A Chicago native, Tauchman was burned by his hometown Cubs this offseason. What better revenge than joining a division rival and leading the Reds to victory?

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