Eugenio Suárez, TJ Friedl Clear Waivers, Remain With Reds

Key Points:

• Slugger Eugenio Suárez and outfielder TJ Friedl went unclaimed on outright waivers and will remain with the Cincinnati Reds, expected to play in Friday’s game at Wrigley Field.
• The Reds placed both veterans on waivers hoping another team would claim them before the Sept. 1 postseason eligibility deadline to save on their remaining salaries—Suárez is owed about $2.57 million and Friedl about $633,000.
• Suárez has struggled this season with a .208/.295/.410 batting line and poor defensive metrics, while Friedl has been in a severe hitting slump, batting just .158/.242/.234 despite strong defense in center field.
• The Reds may reconsider waivers before the postseason deadline, but it’s unlikely either player will be claimed; Suárez’s recent grand slam could slightly improve his trade appeal.
• Looking ahead, the Reds face tough decisions: Suárez’s $16 million mutual option is unlikely to be exercised given his performance, and Friedl is a probable non-tender candidate despite club control through 2028.