Cincinnati Reds Avoid Arbitration With Three Key Players

Good news!

Oct 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Cincinnati Reds designated hitter Gavin Lux (2) rounds third base on his way to score a run against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the eighth inning during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Reds avoided arbitration and agreed to terms with Gavin Lux, TJ Friedl, and Will Benson, according to The Enquirer's Gordon Wittenmyer.

Gavin Lux's deal is reportedly worth $5.525 million. TJ Friedl's is for $3.8 million. Will Benson's deal is for $1.725 million.

Earlier today, the Reds agreed to terms with utility player Specer Steer.

Lux and Friedl are expected to have big roles for the Reds in 2026, similar to their roles in 2025. With the addition of Dane Myers, Friedl is likely to get more off days, especially against left-handed pitching.

For Benson, it'll be interesting to see where he falls into Cincinnati's plans. With the addition of JJ Bleday and Myers, the Reds have a lot of players who are capable of playing in the outfield. Last year, Benson saw sporadic playing time and it feels like he will need to go out and earn his spot on the Opening Day roster this spring.

You can see Wittenmyer's full post below:

Source: Reds also agree to terms with Gavin Lux (5.525m), TJ Friedl (3.8m), Will Benson (1.725m). Avoid arbitration. https://t.co/jtOgDFP5eI

— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubMLB) January 8, 2026

Make sure you bookmark Cincinnati Reds Talk for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and daily coverage of the Cincinnati Reds!

You May Also Like:

Reds Infielder Matt McLain Reflects on Frustrating Season After Wild Card Series Loss

One Under-The-Radar Reds Prospect Participating in Arizona Fall League

Cincinnati Reds on Wrong Side of History After Another Postseason Loss

Former Cincinnati Reds All-Star Removed From Braves’ 40-Man Roster

Exclusive Interview With Cincinnati Reds Minor League All-Star

Cincinnati Reds Squander Chances in Season-Ending Loss to Dodgers

Sal Stewart Makes Reds History in Game 2 of National League Wild Card Series

Former Reds Pitcher Gets Out of Bases-Loaded Jam for Yankees, Has Epic Reaction

MLB Analyst Suggests Reds' Ace Hunter Greene Was Tipping Pitches Against Dodgers

Cincinnati Reds Ace Hunter Greene Make Major League Baseball History

Cincinnati Reds Utility Player Elects Free Agency

Four Cincinnati Reds Players Nominated For All-MLB Team

Reds Become First Team Ever to Reach Playoffs Without Meeting These Statistical Marks

Brent Suter Does Impression of Terry Francona After Reds Clinch Playoff Berth

Milwaukee Brewers Show Pure Class After Cincinnati Reds Clinch Playoff Spot

Former Cincinnati Reds Outfielder Designated for Assignment

Former Cincinnati Reds Fan Favorite Claimed By Atlanta Braves

Cincinnati Reds Sign Former Wake Forest Pitcher to Minor League Deal

Cincinnati Reds Sign Former George Mason Pitcher to Minor League Deal

-----

Follow Cincinnati Reds on SI on Twitter/X: @RedsTalkSI

Like Our Facebook Page

Subscribe and follow the ONLY Daily Reds Podcast

Follow on Instagram