Height
5'8"
Weight
180 lbs
Age
30
College
N/A
Experience
5 yrs
Bats/Throws
L/L
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsB-
| Year | Team | GP | AVG | HR | RBI | OPS | SB | H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 461 | 0.257 | 54 | 201 | 0.757 | 55 | 417 |
| 2026 | | 1 | .000 | 0 | — | .000 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$3.8M
Guaranteed
$2.3M
AAV
$3.8M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
The Reds made a shrewd move locking up TJ Friedl at $3.8M for one year, earning a B- CVI that reflects solid value for a proven center fielder entering his prime. Friedl has established himself as a legitimate everyday player with his combination of elite speed, above-average defense in center field, and improving offensive profile that projects to around 2-3 WAR annually. At $3.8M AAV, Cincinnati is paying well below market rate for a solid starter at premium position, especially considering center fielders with Friedl's defensive chops typically command $6-8M in free agency. The one-year structure is particularly clever for the Reds, giving them cost certainty while preserving flexibility as they navigate their competitive window and evaluate prospects like Cam Collier in their system. While Friedl isn't a franchise-caliber talent, his speed-defense combination provides tangible value that's difficult to replace, and this deal positions Cincinnati to either extend him at a favorable rate or maximize his trade value if they pivot toward a rebuild. This represents exactly the type of efficient roster building that small-market teams need to execute consistently.
Performance Analysis
TJ Friedl grades as an All-Star caliber performer among MLB center fielders, earning a B+ Performance grade. He is hitting with a 0.257 batting average and a 0.757 OPS (near the league average of .720) this season. With 54 home runs and 201 RBI through 461 games (a 19-HR, 71-RBI pace over a full season), he brings moderate power to the lineup. His 55 stolen bases add an elite speed dimension that creates additional offensive value. As a prime-age veteran at 30, TJ is a key contributor for the Reds. A 461-game sample provides high confidence in this grade.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 4/10 | vs LAA | L 2-10 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Wed, 4/8 | @ MIA | L 4-7 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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