In a move reflecting both strategic foresight and postseason ambition, the Cincinnati Reds have reportedly agreed to terms with veteran left-handed reliever Will Smith on a Major League contract, according to a report from MLB.com. While the club has yet to release an official statement, multiple sources indicate the signing is finalized and expected to be announced shortly.
Smith, 35, was recently designated for assignment by the Kansas City Royals after making four appearances this season. He had rejoined Kansas City over the winter and spent time early this year honing his form. In his most recent outing, Smith delivered a clean eighth inning, flashing vintage command and velocity—his fastball peaked at 91.3 mph and sat comfortably around 90 mph.
With over a decade of experience, Smith brings considerable pedigree to Cincinnati. Across 12 Major League seasons, he’s recorded 114 career saves, maintained a 3.67 ERA, and appeared in more than 600 games. Most notably, he has been a key contributor on multiple postseason teams, including three World Series champions, earning a reputation for poise under pressure and leadership in the clubhouse.
Though his 2024 campaign with the Detroit Tigers saw mixed results—a 4.98 ERA marred by stretches of inconsistency—the Reds view this acquisition not as a reclamation project but as a timely reinforcement. The team’s bullpen has been quietly impressive, boasting a 3.49 ERA, the fifth-lowest in the National League. The addition of Smith brings depth, experience, and flexibility to an already solid relief corps.
Cincinnati, still the only team in Major League Baseball not to suffer a sweep this season, is clearly preparing for a serious playoff push. Adding a tested arm like Smith’s signals intent: not just to maintain regular-season momentum, but to have a bullpen capable of holding leads when it matters most.
While Smith’s best years may be behind him, the Reds are betting that his postseason experience and left-handed reliability could prove invaluable down the stretch—and potentially in October.
