Entering the 2025 MLB season, very few people outside of the optimistic Cincinnatian would have anticipated the Reds to be in the thick of the playoff hunt in September, but nonetheless, here we are. With most preseason projections suggesting the Reds finish in the bottom half of the National League, the Reds sit at 74-73, 1.5 games out of the final wildcard spot with 17 games remaining.
The Reds have been able to defy the odds this season and keep pace in the wildcard in part due to the underrated move to scoop up our MLBbro Ke‘Bryan Hayes at the trade deadline.
Prior to the trade deadline on July 31st, Hayes was having a forgettable season. Holding a stat line of .236/.295/.274 with a .569 OPS, it’s safe to admit the third baseman’s performance on the field was short of the cornerstone player of the Pirates franchise for the next decade’s expectations. But, as they say, a change of scenery can do wonders.
While the Pirates may have been down on their former top prospect, the Reds saw an opportunity to bolster their infield defense, lineup and bring veteran leadership to their young clubhouse.
Since the trade deadline, Hayes has been invigorated by his first real opportunity to get a taste of the postseason and it has shown in his play on the field as he has been a difference maker, hitting .282/.353/.421 with a much improved .783 OPS. He’s also had three bombs, six doubles, and 14 runs scored in 38 games with his new ball club.
The biggest question mark for Ke’Bryan Hayes has always been can he produce offensively on a consistent basis? At age 28, the jury is still out and he’s worth taking a flier on.
Prior to his arrival in Cincinnati, the Reds lacked defensive consistency at third, opting to man the position by committee. One thing you know you can take to the bank with Hayes is platinum glove caliber defense. Leading all NL third basemen with 19 defensive runs saved this season, Key has already made a significant impact there, making fewer defensive miscues, while making difficult plays look routine, providing a confidence boost for the entire pitching staff.
With 17 games left, the door remains open for the Reds to play in October. The final wildcard spot is currently being held down by the scuffling New York Mets, who continue to gag down the stretch. Good news is, the Reds own the tiebreaker over them, if it should come down to it. If, Ke’Bryan can continue to rake at his current level in the hitter friendly confines of the Great American Ballpark, the Reds may be able to lay claim to one of the most low-key impactful deals made at the deadline and have a real shot of earning their first trip to the postseason in five years.
