Cincinnati Reds in talks with free-agent Ryan Ludwick – MLB News
A casual glimpse at the ongoing Winter Meetings may lead one to conclude that the Cincinnati Reds search for leadoff hitter is entering a decisive phase. However, it is not ostensibly the case at the moment as the general manager Walt Jocketty, revealed on Monday that not much progress has been made in this regard.
That was a quite candid appraisal of the developments on the first day.
One of the options available in the free agent market was that of Angel Pagan. But having a considerably big price tag, the Reds did seem somewhat constrained. Resultantly, San Francisco Giants re-signed the centre fielder to a four-year $40 million contract.
Michael Bourn is another candidate available. Add to it Dexter Fowler of the Colorado Rockies and Coco Crisp of the Oakland A's, while all three are big names, the Reds are probably having a modest price range. Nonetheless, nothing can be ruled out given the Reds’ need.
All the same, there was a talk of re-signing left fielder Ryan Ludwick – currently a free agent. There were already reports suggesting that Ludwick’s agent, Dan Horwits, has had talks with the Reds.
General manager Walt Jocketty indicated on Monday that the Reds may sign him and that could well be this week.
"I think if we're going to sign him, we could do it this week," Jocketty said. "His agent is pretty up front. We've had a good relationship. We'll see where he stands."
Manager Dusty Baker also said that he had spoken to Ludwick a week ago, having an offer for him n the table. But being a free agent that he is, Ludwick for now is weighing his options.
The past season, Ludwick exhibited tremendous instrumentality both offensively and defensively. His offensive prowess was of no less than a big surprise for many as Joey Votto remained out of the line-up due to the knee surgery he underwent.
Showing consistency and effectiveness, Ludwick kept the Reds up and high in the National League Central – as the club eventually won the NL Central title. That spirit and performance is what the Reds are looking for.
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