Reds Linked to Casey Mize in Free-Agent Projection
The Cincinnati Reds are projected to pursue former All-Star pitcher Casey Mize this offseason as they look to strengthen their rotation for 2027.
Cincinnati is projected to offer Casey Mize a two-year, $28 million contract with an opt-out clause. The Reds finished the 2026 season 75-87 and face rotation needs for 2027, while Hunter Greene works his way back from elbow surgery and Brady Singer approaches free agency.
Mize, 29, began 2026 with Detroit and recorded a 2.70 ERA over 16 starts before a trade sent him to San Diego. His results worsened with the Padres: he posted a 7.46 ERA in 10 starts and finished the season with a 4.32 ERA overall.
Mize earned an All-Star selection in 2025 and was the first overall pick in the draft. His strong first stretch of 2026 offers Cincinnati a potential upside case, while his injury history and struggles after the trade raise concerns about his reliability.
A deal at the projected price could give the Reds another starting option, but Mize would not resolve all the rotation’s uncertainties. Cincinnati is expected to need more than one significant addition as it prepares for the 2027 season.