Report: Reds Bolster Outfield by Signing Former Top 5 Pick

The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly signing former Athletics outfielder JJ Bleday, according to Charlie Goldsmith.

Bleday was drafted fourth overall in the 2019 MLB Draft by the Miami Marlins out of Vanderbilt University.

In four big league seasons, the 28-year-old has struggled to find his stride offensively, slashing .215/.307/.394 with 136 extra-base hits. In 2025, he slashed .212/.294/.404 with 14 home runs, but also struggled defensively with -6 Outs Above Average.

Bleday was non-tendered by the Athletics earlier this offseason.

Bleday was really good in 2024, slashing .243/.324/.437 with 67 extra-base hits, including 20 home runs. He would have hit 31 home runs at Great American Ball Park that season.

It’s clear Bleday has the tools, and the Reds are betting that his upside will finally pay off in a hitter-friendly ballpark. While the details of the deal aren't out yet, it feels like a low-risk move that could turn out to be a great signing if the center-fielder plays up to his potential.

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

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