Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl: Stats, Teams, and Latest MLB News
Veteran slugger with 30+ HR power, currently in a down year.
Speed & defense specialist, but struggling badly at the plate in 2026.
Introduction
The 2026 MLB season has been a challenging one for the Cincinnati Reds, and no two players embody that struggle more than Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl. Both have been key contributors for the Reds in recent years, but they have found themselves at the center of a significant roster shake-up. This article provides a comprehensive look at both players, comparing their profiles, stats, and playing styles, while also covering the latest news that has the baseball world talking.
Eugenio Suárez: Player Profile
Eugenio Suárez is a veteran infielder known for his power and durability. After starting his career with the Detroit Tigers, he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds, where he became a cornerstone of the lineup. Suárez has consistently been a threat for 30+ home runs and is a reliable run-producer in the middle of the order. While he has occasionally struggled with batting average, his power and ability to draw walks make him a valuable asset.
- Full Name: Eugenio Suárez
- Birth Date: July 18, 1991
- Birthplace: Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela
- Position: Third Baseman
- Bats/Throws: Right/Right
- MLB Debut: June 4, 2014
- Current Team: Cincinnati Reds
- Previous Teams: Detroit Tigers
TJ Friedl: Player Profile
TJ Friedl is an outfielder known for his speed, contact skills, and high baseball IQ. An undrafted free agent out of the University of Nevada, Friedl worked his way through the Reds' minor league system to become their everyday center fielder. He is a left-handed batter who uses the entire field and is an excellent baserunner. His defense in center field is a key part of his game.
- Full Name: Terry Lee Friedl
- Birth Date: August 14, 1995
- Birthplace: Sewickley, PA
- Position: Center Fielder
- Bats/Throws: Left/Left
- MLB Debut: September 18, 2021
- Current Team: Cincinnati Reds
Eugenio Suárez Stats
Eugenio Suárez has been a consistent power hitter throughout his career, though his 2026 season has been a struggle. While his power remains a threat, his overall production has declined.
| Stat | 2026 | Career |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 112 | 1,584 |
| AVG | .226 | .245 |
| HR | 12 | 286 |
| RBI | 41 | 841 |
| OPS | .712 | .788 |
2026 stats through August 26. Career stats via Baseball-Reference.
TJ Friedl Stats
Friedl's value is derived from his ability to get on base, play elite defense, and steal bases. In the 2025 season, he had a strong year, but the 2026 season has been a disaster. He is batting just .158 with a .475 OPS in 253 plate appearances through August 2026.
| Stat | 2026 | Career |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 70 | 530 |
| AVG | .160 | .247 |
| HR | 3 | 57 |
| RBI | 11 | 212 |
| SB | 5 | 60 |
| OPS | .485 | .728 |
2026 stats through August 26. Career stats via Baseball-Reference.
Eugenio Suárez vs TJ Friedl
While both play for the same team, Suárez and Friedl offer very different skill sets.
| Comparison | Eugenio Suárez | TJ Friedl |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Third Baseman | Center Fielder |
| Age | 34 | 31 |
| Bats | Right | Left |
| Power | High (35+ HR potential) | Low (10-15 HR) |
| Speed | Below average | High (SB threat) |
| On-Base | Above average (walks) | Above average (contact) |
| Defense | Solid at 3B | Excellent in CF |
| Experience | 10+ years | 6 years |
Playing Style
Eugenio Suárez
Suárez is a classic power hitter. His value comes from hitting home runs and driving in runs. He is willing to strike out at a high rate in exchange for power and is a solid defender at third base. He has been a model of durability throughout his career.
TJ Friedl
Friedl is a table-setter. His job is to work the count, get on base, and use his speed to create runs. His defense is also a key part of his value. However, in 2026, his contact rate has plummeted, and his speed has declined, making him a liability.
Latest Updates
This is where the story gets interesting. On August 26, 2026, the Cincinnati Reds placed both Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl on outright waivers. The news, first reported by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, sent shockwaves through the baseball world.
Reds place Suárez and Friedl on outright waivers
The move is a clear signal that the Reds are looking to shed payroll for the final month of the season. Suárez is owed a significant amount of money, and Friedl is owed around $700,000. According to reports, the Reds attempted to trade both players at the trade deadline but received little interest.
Friedl optioned to Triple-A Louisville
Friedl was optioned to Triple-A Louisville in June after a prolonged slump. He is hitting just .158 with a .475 OPS across 253 plate appearances, leading to his demotion and now this waiver placement.
Suárez hits grand slam hours before waiver news
In a bizarre twist, Suárez hit a grand slam to help the Reds to a historic comeback victory just hours before the waiver news broke. Despite the heroics, the team proceeded with the waiver placement, underscoring the business nature of the decision.
The waiver claim period is 48 hours. According to reports, it is unlikely that either player will be claimed due to their contracts and performance, meaning they will likely clear waivers and remain with the Reds for the rest of the 2026 season. However, neither is expected to be with the team in 2027.
Career Highlights
Eugenio Suárez
49 Home Runs
Career-best power season with the Reds.
34 HR / 104 RBI
Established as a middle-of-the-order threat.
31 HR / 79 RBI
Another consistent power season.
TJ Friedl
27 Stolen Bases
Career-high in steals, showed elite speed.
Heart & Hustle Award
Recognized for his all-out effort and leadership.
247 Times Reached Base
Career-best on-base performance.
Fantasy Baseball Outlook
In fantasy baseball, these players hold very different values. Suárez is drafted for his power; he is a player you count on for home runs and RBIs. Friedl, on the other hand, is valued for his speed and his ability to hit for average. Both players are now in uncertain territory. For fantasy owners, the waiver placement is a major concern. If Suárez or Friedl are claimed, their value could change depending on the new team and ballpark. If they clear waivers, they will remain in Cincinnati, but their playing time is uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eugenio Suárez?
Eugenio Suárez is a veteran Major League Baseball third baseman, known for his power-hitting ability.
Who is TJ Friedl?
TJ Friedl is an outfielder for the Cincinnati Reds, known for his speed, contact hitting, and excellent defense.
What position does Eugenio Suárez play?
Eugenio Suárez primarily plays third base.
What position does TJ Friedl play?
TJ Friedl is an outfielder, most frequently playing center field.
What team does Eugenio Suárez play for?
Eugenio Suárez currently plays for the Cincinnati Reds.
What team does TJ Friedl play for?
TJ Friedl currently plays for the Cincinnati Reds.
How do Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl compare?
Suárez is a power-hitting third baseman, while Friedl is a speed-and-defense outfielder. They offer very different skill sets to their team.
Why were Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl placed on waivers?
The Reds placed both players on waivers due to a combination of performance struggles and a desire to reduce payroll for the final month of the season.
Conclusion
Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl are two players at different stages of their careers, facing a similar crossroads. Suárez, the veteran slugger, and Friedl, the speed-and-defense outfielder, have both been integral to the Cincinnati Reds in recent years. However, the 2026 season has been a struggle for both, culminating in their placement on waivers. This move highlights the business side of baseball and the pressure to perform. For Suárez and Friedl, the future is now uncertain, but their established track records suggest they will have opportunities to contribute to a team in 2027, whether it is in Cincinnati or elsewhere.
Editor's Note: All statistics and information are current as of August 27, 2026.
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