Jeimer Candelario has been designated for assignment by the Cincinnati Reds after a disappointing tenure following his acquisition on a three-year, $45 million deal. His performance included a .207 batting average and a .660 OPS over 134 games, well below expectations. Injuries hampered his contributions, with critical absences due to a fractured toe and a lumbar spine strain. In the current season, he managed just a .410 OPS across 22 games before being sidelined. The Reds are now responsible for the remaining $22.5 million on his contract, marking a significant financial misstep for the organization.

Candelario’s brief stint with Cincinnati highlights the risks teams take when investing heavily in players who fail to deliver. His struggles raise questions about the Reds' scouting and roster management strategies as they aim to rebuild and compete effectively in future seasons.