CINCINNATI, Ohio – Brent Suter, a Cincinnati native, is set to fulfill a lifelong dream as he joins his hometown team. According to a source familiar with the matter, the Reds have agreed to a one-year contract with the veteran left-handed reliever. Although the club has yet to make a formal announcement, MLB.com reported that the deal guarantees Suter $3 million.
Suter, who expressed his excitement in an interview with MLB.com, is ecstatic about the opportunity to play for the Reds. Growing up, the Reds were his favorite team, making this experience surreal for him. The 34-year-old pitcher attended Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati and currently resides in the city during the offseason. Coming to the Reds feels like a homecoming for Suter, who describes Cincinnati as his “home base.”
In the 2016-2022 seasons with the Brewers and the 2023 season with the Rockies, Suter compiled a career record of 40-22 with an ERA of 3.49 in 253 games. Last season, while playing for the Rockies, he achieved a 3.38 ERA in 57 appearances and 69 1/3 innings.
Suter’s journey to the Reds was not an overnight occurrence. The team had shown consistent interest in him, reaching out early in the process. As recent moves were made, negotiations escalated quickly. Suter acknowledges that the market for free agent relievers has been slow, but the Reds’ persistent pursuit made for an exciting turn of events.
The addition of Suter strengthens Cincinnati’s bullpen, which already includes two left-handed pitchers, Sam Moll and Alex Young. Suter brings a reliable and versatile skill set, having made 24 multi-inning appearances last season. He thrives in high-pressure situations and has postseason experience, making him a valuable asset to the Reds. Moreover, Suter’s ability to pitch on consecutive days offers flexibility for the team.
What makes this joining of forces even more special is Suter’s established relationships with several members of the Reds. He shares an alma mater with manager David Bell and has previously worked with pitching coach Derek Johnson and catcher Luke Maile during their time together on the Brewers. Suter’s involvement in local community events with reliever Lucas Sims has also fostered connections.
While pitching for his hometown team is a significant factor, Suter’s decision to sign with the Reds stems from the desire to win and be part of a successful team. He admires the winning culture and energy surrounding the Reds, noting their strong core players who are both talented and exciting to watch. Suter fondly recalls the electric atmosphere during a game against the Reds last summer when they were in the midst of a 12-game winning streak.
In addition to the agreement with Suter, the Reds have resolved arbitration cases with five other players. Sam Moll, Tyler Stephenson, Jake Fraley, Alex Young, and Tejay Antone have all reached one-year contract agreements. However, second baseman Jonathan India remains without a contract agreement as the arbitration deadline passed. The Reds offered $3.2 million, while India filed at $4 million.
With the arrival of Brent Suter and the resolution of arbitration cases, the Reds are shaping up for a promising season. Suter’s return to his hometown team has been met with excitement and anticipation within the organization and among fans alike. Cincinnati’s bullpen has gained a dependable left-handed pitcher who can contribute both on and off the field.