The Cincinnati Reds are making some intriguing moves, bringing back familiar faces in an attempt to bolster their roster. This offseason, they've signed utility infielder Garrett Hampson and right-handed pitcher Josh Staumont to minor league contracts, hoping to recapture some of their past potential. Let's dive into their stories.
Garrett Hampson's 2025 season was a rollercoaster. He didn't start the year with the Reds, instead beginning with the Arizona Diamondbacks. After a disappointing start, hitting only .167/.359/.167 in his first six weeks, he was designated for assignment. He eventually landed with the Reds after being released by the Diamondbacks. In his first game back with the Reds, he showed promise, going 2-5. However, the following weeks proved challenging, and he was designated for assignment once again. He was claimed by the St. Louis Cardinals, but his struggles continued, hitting just .103 in 35 games.
2025 was, without a doubt, the toughest season of Hampson's career. Known more for his versatility than his hitting prowess, he had a career OPS of .662 and an OPS+ of 72 before 2025. However, in 2025, his OPS plummeted to .419, and his OPS+ was a mere 20. Before 2025, his ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable asset. Now, at age 31, he's on a minor league contract for 2026, meaning he'll need to prove himself in Triple-A to earn a spot back in the big leagues.
Josh Staumont, on the other hand, had been a consistent presence in the big leagues from 2019 through 2024, primarily with the Kansas City Royals and then the Minnesota Twins in 2024. Over his career, he pitched 192.2 innings out of the bullpen with a 3.97 ERA, 109 walks, allowed 16 home runs, and struck out 209 hitters. His time with the Twins was a mixed bag, with a 3.70 ERA in 24.1 innings, no home runs allowed, and only 17 hits. However, he also walked 14 batters while striking out only 14, struggling for the third season in a row at the big league level. He was released by the Twins in early August and signed with the Cubs, who also released him after sending him to Triple-A.
In February 2025, Staumont signed a minor league deal with the Reds and received an invite to spring training. He pitched in one game, throwing a hitless inning against San Francisco on February 23rd, with a walk and two strikeouts. Unfortunately, he spent the rest of the season on the injured list, missing the entire year.
It's a gamble for the Reds, but these signings offer potential upside. What do you think about these moves? Do you believe either Hampson or Staumont can rediscover their form and contribute to the team? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
