Reds Bring Back Slugger Eugenio Suarez on One-Year Deal

Veteran infielder returns to Cincinnati after stints with Diamondbacks and Mariners

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:47pm

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The Cincinnati Reds have signed free agent Eugenio Suarez to a one-year, $15 million contract with a $16 million mutual option for 2027. Suarez, a two-time All-Star, spent seven seasons with the Reds from 2015 to 2021 and became a fan favorite, hitting 189 home runs. He is expected to serve primarily as the Reds' designated hitter, with the ability to also play third base and first base.

Why it matters

Suarez's return to the Reds provides a power boost to the lineup and reunites him with the team and city where he had his greatest success. His addition also gives the Reds more flexibility in the field, with the ability to rotate him between DH, third base, and first base.

The details

Suarez, who will turn 35 in July, is coming off a 2025 season where he hit 49 home runs split between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners. He is one of only 19 players in MLB history to hit four home runs in a single game, accomplishing the feat in April 2025 against the Atlanta Braves. Suarez was an All-Star in 2018 and 2025, and has played primarily third base since 2016 after starting his career as a shortstop.

  • Suarez signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Reds on February 1, 2026.
  • He has a $16 million mutual option for the 2027 season.

The players

Eugenio Suarez

A 35-year-old infielder who spent seven seasons with the Reds from 2015 to 2021, making the All-Star team in 2018 and 2025. He is known for his power, having hit 189 home runs over his career.

Ke'Bryan Hayes

The Reds' everyday third baseman, who will likely see some rest days with Suarez able to play the position.

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What they’re saying

“Eugenio was a fan favorite during his time with the Reds, and we're thrilled to have him back. His power bat and versatility in the field will be a big boost to our lineup.”

— Nick Krall, Reds General Manager

What’s next

Suarez will report to Reds spring training in Goodyear, Arizona, in late February to prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Suarez's return to Cincinnati represents a homecoming for the veteran slugger, who had his best years with the Reds. His power and positional flexibility make him a valuable addition as the Reds look to build on their recent success and compete in the NL Central.