Reds Sign Outfielder JJ Bleday to $1.4M Deal, Acquire Dane Myers in Trade

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The Cincinnati Reds have made a significant move in the offseason, signing outfielder JJ Bleday to a $1.4 million, one-year contract. Bleday, 28, had a decent season with the Oakland Athletics, hitting .212 with 14 home runs and 39 RBIs. However, his numbers were down from his career-best season in 2024, where he set records with 20 home runs and 60 RBIs. The outfielder's signing comes after a stint with the Athletics, where he was initially designated for assignment and failed to secure a 2026 contract. Bleday was a highly-touted prospect, selected fourth overall by the Miami Marlins in the 2019 amateur draft. He has a promising track record, boasting a .215 average with 49 home runs and 142 RBIs in four seasons with the Marlins and Athletics. As part of the deal, the Reds also acquired outfielder Dane Myers from the Miami Marlins in exchange for minor league outfielder Ethan O'Donnell. Myers, 29, had a solid season with the Marlins, hitting .235 with six home runs, 31 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases. The trade is expected to boost the Reds' outfield depth. The signings come as the Reds look to strengthen their roster ahead of the new season. The team has also designated right-hander Keegan Thompson for assignment to make room for Bleday. With the additional talent, the Reds are poised to make a strong push in the upcoming season.