The 2026 MLB season did not go the way that the Cincinnati Reds had hoped it would. Several key players took a step back and underperformed, causing Cincinnati to miss the postseason for the fifth time in seven seasons. 

One player that took a major step back was outfielder TJ Friedl. After extremely productive seasons in 2023 and 2025, Friedl had a second down season in 2026 and that abruptly cost him his roster spot on Sunday.

TJ Friedl has been designated for assignment

According to a team announcement, Friedl has been designated for assignment. The move comes after Friedl has struggled mightily in 2026, posting a slash line of .172/.255/.255, totaling an OPS of .510.

Friedl had been a key player for Cincinnati since earning a full-time role in 2023. He remained on the roster as a veteran presence in the clubhouse for younger players despite his struggles, until now.

Is there a market for a struggling 31-year-old outfielder?

With just seven regular season games remaining, it is unlikely that anyone feels they'll be in need of Friedl on their roster for the final week of the season. If that's indeed the case, he will hit free agency ahead of the 2027 season. 

It will be intriguing to see if anyone takes a risk on the 31-year-old that has been unable to post consecutive solid seasons thus far in his career.