The Cincinnati Reds have been looking for a veteran piece to add to their outfield mix. They found that piece in Wil Myers.
According to Bobby Nightengale from the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Reds have signed Wil Myers to a one year deal with a mutual option for 2024. Myers will earn $7.5 million this year, but could earn another $1.5 million in incentives and would receive a $500,000 bonus if he is traded during the season.
Cincinnati Reds taking chance on Wil Myers
Myers has not lived up to the potential he displayed when he was the AL Rookie of the Year in 2013, but he has been a solid player when healthy. Of course, health is a major caveat, including last season as he battled right knee inflammation and a thumb issue, costing Myers two months last year.
He was still a solid enough piece in the lineup when he was able to take the diamond. Myers posted a respectable .261/.315/.398 batting line in his 286 plate appearances, hitting seven homers and 15 doubles. He had six consecutive seasons with double digit homers before last season, giving hope that he could bounce back and be a solid contributor for the Reds.
There is another benefit to bringing Myers on board. Not only does he have experience at all three outfield spots, but he has spent time at first base as well. Considering that Joey Votto was lost over the second half of the 2022 campaign and struggled when he was on the diamond, having a solid backup plan at first makes sense.
This is also the perfect chance for Myers to resurrect his career. Cincinnati plays in more of an offensive haven, allowing him a chance to show his respectable power. At 32 years old, Myers should have a few more solid years left in the majors. He just needs to prove that is the case.
The Cincinnati Reds have signed Wil Myers to a one year deal with a mutual option for 2024. He is the right fit for what the Reds need.