Scott Barlow Lands $2,500,000 Deal with Reds: Smart Signing or Overpay?

The Cincinnati Reds have added veteran reliever Scott Barlow to their bullpen, signing him to a one-year, $2.5 million contract. Just a few years ago, Barlow was a key closer for the Kansas City Royals, but his performance has dropped recently. Now, the big question is: Did the Reds get a solid deal, or did they overpay for a struggling pitcher?


The Reds are taking a chance on Barlow, hoping he can bounce back and be a reliable part of their bullpen. The 32-year-old right-hander was once dominant, but his velocity and control have declined over the past two seasons. In 2024, things got worse—his struggles led the Cleveland Guardians to release him in September.
Fans are thrilled with the trade, expressing excitement over what it could mean for the team’s future. Many believe the move strengthens the roster and adds much-needed depth, while others are eager to see how the new addition will impact upcoming games. Social media is buzzing with positive reactions, as supporters share their optimism and anticipation for what’s ahead.



Even with his recent struggles, Barlow brings something the Reds need: durability. Over the last five full MLB seasons, he has made at least 61 appearances each year, proving that he can stay healthy and available. That’s a big deal for a team that has struggled with bullpen depth.
However, not everyone is convinced that he’s worth $2.5 million. Some believe the Reds could have found a better reliever for the same price, while others think Barlow still has something left in the tank and could bounce back.

The years 2021 and 2022 could say that Barlow turned himself to be one of the most effective relievers in baseball. In those years, he fashioned a 2.30 ERA, striking out nearly 28 percent of major league hitters, while registering 40 saves and 20 holds for the Kansas City Royals. A big-game guy, he was known for not allowing runs in difficult situations.
However, things began to change for him in 2023 and 2024. His ERA rose to 4.32; his strikeouts dropped; his fastball was down almost 4 mph. Those numbers raised fears that he would not be able to be effective at the highest level anymore.
Still, Barlow's slider and curveball are swing-and-miss pitches. If he keeps his control under him and adjusts accordingly, he can still be an effective late-inning relief pitcher behind Reds closer Alexis Diaz.
Scott Barlow is somewhat of a gamble for the Reds; in this context, some recent dissatisfaction makes this deal a risky one, while experience may well work in favor of a long-serving addition. If he rebounds, the Reds may uncover a $2.5 million teleport for themselves; if he doesn't solve the issue, that money could have gone down the drain for a FA reliever close to being washed up. Either way, all eyes are on Barlow as he tries to show he still belongs in the Cincinnati bullpen.
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