Nick Krall tipped his hand at the beginning of this offseason by saying the Cincinnati Reds would "realign the payroll with their budget." The Reds are going to begin a new rebuild, this offseason. IT doesn't have to be to the level of decimation and negative timeline of 2015, though, as the Reds have players who could bring in a favorable return.

Luis Castillo and Sonny Gray are important pitchers on this team, and can be aces for many other pitching staffs. Jesse Winker is a young, talented hitter with the ability play the corner outfield positions adequately. All three have what other teams covet almost as much as talent: multiple years of team control. So, with savvy trades by Krall and the front office, this doesn't have to be a lengthy time of non-playoff competition.

They also have guys in-house who they can build around. Jonathan India is the odds on favorite to win the NL Rookie of the Year award, Tyler Mahle was arguably the team's best pitcher in 2022, and if they don't trade him, Winker can help anchor the lineup. Saying the word rebuild does not have to mean years of 90+ losses for the Reds, if they do it right.

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Why This is Now a Rebuild for the Cincinnati Reds and who could be the Most Important Trade Pieces