Reds Sign Eugenio Suarez, Seen as Better Fit Than Schwarber

Columnists debate whether Suarez or Schwarber is the better signing for the Reds

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Cincinnati Reds have signed free agent Eugenio Suarez to a one-year deal, two months after missing out on signing Kyle Schwarber. Columnists Jason Williams and Gordon Wittenmyer debate whether Suarez is a better fit for the Reds than Schwarber would have been.

Why it matters

The Reds have been looking to add a big power bat to their lineup, and both Suarez and Schwarber fit that bill. The debate centers around which player would be the better long-term fit for the team and its young core.

The details

Suarez, a two-time All-Star, has hit 30 or more home runs in seven seasons, the same number as Schwarber. Suarez also has the ability to play multiple positions in the field, unlike Schwarber who is primarily a designated hitter. The Reds were able to sign Suarez to a one-year deal, while Schwarber commanded a much larger five-year contract from the Phillies.

  • The Reds signed Eugenio Suarez to a one-year deal on the eve of spring training in 2026.
  • The Reds missed out on signing Kyle Schwarber a couple of months earlier.

The players

Eugenio Suarez

A two-time MLB All-Star who has hit 30 or more home runs in seven seasons, including a career-high in 2025. He is seen as a better fit for the Reds than Kyle Schwarber due to his defensive versatility and the team's ability to sign him to a shorter-term deal.

Kyle Schwarber

A power-hitting outfielder who hit 50 home runs in 2025. He was pursued by the Reds but ultimately signed a five-year, $150 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.

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What they’re saying

“Fantastic move by the Reds getting Eugenio Suarez. Even he called it 'perfect' after signing his one-year deal. Can you imagine a better fit for this team?”

— Jason Williams, Sports Columnist (dispatch.com)

“It's you who needs to check your short-term memory. Schwarber wasn't coming anywhere near this team, not with the Phillies giving him $150 million. The Reds ended up with a Schwarber-like guy. Suarez has 40-50 home-run power and is a great clubhouse guy.”

— Jason Williams, Sports Columnist (dispatch.com)

What’s next

The Reds will look to Eugenio Suarez to provide a power boost to their lineup as they aim to contend in the NL Central in 2026.

The takeaway

By signing Eugenio Suarez to a one-year deal, the Reds were able to add a proven power hitter with postseason experience at a more affordable price than the five-year, $150 million contract Kyle Schwarber received from the Phillies. This move gives the Reds financial flexibility while still upgrading their lineup for a potential playoff push.