TORONTO — The Reds invested over $108 million in the offseason, with a significant portion going to free-agent slugger Jeimer Candelario. However, Candelario was placed on the 10-day injured list on Tuesday due to a fractured left big toe.
The 30-year-old Candelario, who signed a three-year, $45 million contract in December, was diagnosed with the injury after an X-ray at Rogers Centre on Monday night. Despite the pain, he continued playing and went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in the Reds’ 6-3 victory over the Blue Jays.
“I was hurting, but I was really surprised to find out something was broken,” Candelario said.
Reds manager David Bell noted, “Yesterday he was trying to get himself ready to play and thought he could manage, but it felt worse as the day went on.”
Candelario, who was the Reds’ biggest free-agent signing since Mike Moustakas and Nick Castellanos in the 2019-20 offseason, was hit on the foot by Brady Singer during Sunday’s 8-1 loss to the Royals. There’s no timeline for his return yet, but he will see doctors in Cincinnati for a more detailed assessment. On Tuesday, he was seen in the clubhouse wearing a walking boot.
“I’m focusing on coming back this season,” Candelario said. “I believe we have a strong team, and I’m determined to return as soon as possible.”
To replace Candelario, the Reds added infielder Amed Rosario to the 26-man roster. Rosario, claimed off waivers from the Dodgers on Sunday, was batting .305 with a .746 OPS in 81 games with the Rays and Dodgers.
Rosario, who has joined his third team this season, said, “I’m excited to be with the Reds. We have a lot of young talent, and that’s special to me.”
Rosario, traded from Tampa Bay to Los Angeles on July 29, was designated for assignment when the Dodgers activated Mookie Betts from the IL last week. He remains focused on his performance, saying, “I understand this is a business and part of the game. I can only control what I can.”
Rosario can play multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, third base, and all three outfield spots, which will help him find playing time with the Reds.
