Former Blue Jays fan favourite outrighted by Cincinnati Reds

The utility infielder and fan favourite during his time with the Toronto Blue Jays, has been outrighted by the Cincinnati Reds. This indicates that he has cleared waivers and is also likely to declare free agency in the coming days.

While Espinal was an All-Star in 2022, he has struggled since being acquired by Cincinnati in a 2024 Spring Training trade with the Blue Jays for pitcher Chris McElvain

Espinal showed promise in 2024, hitting a career-high nine home runs and garnering 45 RBIs and 11 stolen bases in 118 games. However, he regressed significantly in 2025. While his batting averaged was relatively the same (.243 vs. 246), his offensive production dipped. In 114 games, he had no home and only 18 RBIs.

Additionally, his WAR also tailed off. In his 2022 All-Star season, his WAR was 2.4. In his two years with the Reds, Espinal's total WAR was -2.8.

However, Espinal does have some positives moving forward. He has seen significant time at second base, third base, and shortstop in his career, and several teams looking for infield help might take a flyer on him and give him a minor league contract with an invite to Spring Training. He has also seen action at first base as ell as the corner outfield spots.

This makes him an intriguing option as a depth piece and he likely finds a new home in 2026.