# Cincinnati Reds player arbitration and salary projections

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cincinnati-reds-player-arbitration-and-salary-projections
> Updated: 2026-10-19T17:58:17.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The Cincinnati Reds are preparing for significant financial shifts as a group of approximately twelve players, including Elly De La Cruz, enter the MLB arbitration process. This group is projected to command nearly $43 million in total salary, which accounts for nearly half of the team’s projected active roster costs.

Specifically, Elly De La Cruz is expected to see a substantial increase in earnings after four seasons with a salary below $800,000. Projections suggest his salary could rise to more than $8.5 million per season, potentially making him one of the highest-paid players in his first year of arbitration following a season featuring 30 home runs, 30 doubles, and 30 stolen bases.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Elly De La Cruz faces significant salary arbitration increase

Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz is projected to earn over $8.5 million as he becomes eligible for salary arbitration, while the MLB qualifying offer price rises to $23.15 million.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/elly-de-la-cruz-faces-significant-salary-arbitration-increase

### 2026-10-05: Cincinnati Reds face rising costs as players enter arbitration

The Cincinnati Reds face rising costs as 12 players enter arbitration, while rookie Sal Stewart faces debate over his MLB rookie ranking despite a high-power season.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cincinnati-reds-face-rising-costs-as-players-enter-arbitration

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Cite as: Cincinnati Reds player arbitration and salary projections. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cincinnati-reds-player-arbitration-and-salary-projections