Two Key Cincinnati Reds Pitchers Elect Free Agency

The Cincinnati Reds are entering the offseason with two significant vacancies in their pitching staff, as right-handers Nick Martinez and Jakob Junis both declined their 2025 options and elected free agency. 

Martinez, who turned down a $12 million player option, is coming off a stellar season in which he posted a 3.10 ERA over 142.1 innings, excelling as both a starter and reliever. 

Possessing sharp control—tallying 116 strikeouts against only 18 walks—Martinez’s performance has set him up well to seek a multi-year contract on the open market. 

“He’s betting on himself,” noted a Reds insider, pointing to the 34-year-old’s quest for what could be his last substantial deal. Despite the Reds’ potential interest in keeping him, a qualifying offer seems unlikely due to budget constraints.

Reds sign LHP Brent Suter to a 1-year deal with a club option for 2026

Declined option on C Luke Maile

RHP Jakob Junis declined the mutual option on his 2025 contract.

RHP Nick Martinez declined the player option on his 2025 contract.

— C. Trent Rosecrans (@ctrent) November 1, 2024

Jakob Junis, 32, also opted for free agency, declining his $8 million mutual option for a $3 million buyout. 

Acquired midseason from the Milwaukee Brewers, Junis provided stability down the stretch, especially after recovering from an early-season shoulder injury. 

He finished with an impressive 2.69 ERA over 67 innings, capably filling in both as a starter and reliever. 

“Junis was a real asset down the stretch,” Reds management commented, highlighting his versatility and effectiveness in multiple roles. 

As a reliable arm with solid command, Junis is expected to attract interest from teams seeking depth and flexibility in their pitching rotations.

Jakob Junis might be a solid buy low option for the Angels. He’s quietly been pretty solid the last two seasons. https://t.co/AlWaxDsiGs pic.twitter.com/dvW6YkV4xo

— nathan (@FIREJOHNCARPINO) November 1, 2024

With the departures of Martinez and Junis, the Reds face a significant gap in their rotation and bullpen depth. 

While Cincinnati re-signed Brent Suter to add some bullpen stability, the Reds’ roster now stands at 36, offering flexibility to seek reinforcements for 2025.  

Cincinnati will likely explore the market for potential replacements to fill the voids left by Martinez and Junis.

Photo Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images