The Cincinnati Reds are "realigning payroll" this offseason, but they've also said they're not tanking. So what is it? Jeff tries to expound on what the Reds aren't saying and gives an idea as to how the Reds can improve the team.

Nick Krall got all of Reds Country in a tizzy when he said the focus would be "realigning payroll" this offseason. But ever since then he has balked at questions about rebuilding. So if it isn't teardown, but it isn't the Reds going all in on the playoffs, what is it? How can the Reds still garner your interest while actively staying in the mediocre middle?

The Cincinnati Reds are relying on a bet that ownership has made for 15 years that has only worked twice (kind of). They need to understand that Jonathan India, Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and company are nice young players that need talent around them to succeed, an idea they did not employ with Joey Votto and Jay Bruce. How can they go about acquiring talent while self-imposing restrictions of payroll? The Alfredo Simon rule.

The Alfredo Simon rule looks at a player who had a good year and ascertains whether it will ever happen again. IF the answer is no, see if you can trade him for an Eugenio Suarez-like player. We talk about why that trade worked for the Reds and set up tomorrow's podcast where we look at who the Reds could do this with.

*SUBSCRIBE* on YouTube and *FOLLOW* the podcast on your favorite app and on Twitter and Instagram @lockedonreds

Also follow @jefffcarr on Twitter and @carrjefff on Instagram

Call or text (513) 549-0159

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Built Bar

Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you’ll get 15% off your next order.

BetOnline AG

There is only 1 place that has you covered and 1 place we trust. Betonline.ag! Sign up today for a free account at betonline.ag and use that promocode: LOCKEDON for your 50% welcome bonus.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices